Bad habits can hinder productivity, revenue, and client satisfaction, while good habits can propel a business to new heights. By identifying and breaking free from bad habits in these areas, you can save yourself time, money, and energy and ultimately create a more efficient and successful design business. But what about the unhealthy habits that you might not even be aware you have picked up? These are some of the trickiest to catch in your own practice but can make the biggest difference.
Lose the Lazy Loop
Stepping out of the lazy loop is crucial for designers to keep their work fresh and creative. The lazy loop refers to the habit of using the same resources and vendors for every project, which can result in a lack of variety and innovation in your designs. To break free from this habit, it is essential to dedicate time to exploring new resources and setting up new accounts. Carve out a day each month to source new manufacturers and make a conscious effort to incorporate these resources into your upcoming projects.
By actively seeking out new resources and vendors, you’ll avoid falling into the trap of the lazy loop, making your work stale and hindering your own growth. Not only will this lead to more diverse and innovative designs, but it will also help to keep yourself feeling engaged and inspired by your work!
Sacrifice Your Scope, Not Yourself
When a client asks for a reduction in fees, make sure you are not simply giving in to their request. When you do this, you show that you have no integrity in your fees and therefore no backbone in your business. If a client asks for a reduction in fees and you are determined to capture the project, you must reduce or remove something from the scope of the design.
When you simply give in to their request without sacrificing something from the scope to make up for the reduction, you have immediately put them in charge of your business and the project, neither of which they are qualified to run. By standing firm on your fees and either educating clients into the value they provide or making necessary changes to the project scope, you will maintain control over your own business and ensure that you are adequately compensated for your creative expertise.
When you’re ready to take your design practice to the next level, explore your expert coaching and training options with Melissa Galt. To catch the entire podcast episode LISTEN HERE.
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