We frequently hear from our interior design community that they could use more business training. So Houzz Pro Learn developed a series of courses focused on just that, called “Mastering the Business of Interior Design.” Two top-notch interior design business coaches share the wisdom that has helped countless design firms increase profits and job joy for owners and teams, and is available exclusively to Houzz Pro subscribers. 

This comprehensive program is tailored to interior design professionals looking to elevate their business operations, client management skills and overall industry presence. It encapsulates essential knowledge, practical strategies and industry secrets to running a successful interior design business.

Houzz Pro subscribers: Access course content here

What You’ll Learn

The series includes 10 video and audio courses , each targeting key areas of business and client management. In them, you’ll learn the fundamental principles of interior design business management; how to navigate client interactions; strategies for brand development, business processes and growth; and more. 

Here’s a preview of the first 6 courses, which Houzz Pro subscribers can access exclusively, on-demand, for self-paced learning.

Course 1: Repeatable Systems and Processes for Interior Designers

Success often comes down to three things: strong profits, happy clients and work-life balance. You’ll learn how to identify and integrate simple, repeatable processes for sustainable success in these three areas and beyond.

Course 2: Know Your Business to Grow Your Business

How well do you know your own business? You’ll dive headfirst into your operations to better understand how to win more business, improve team productivity, and find and retain top talent. You’ll even get a worksheet to help you analyze and create a plan

Course 3: The Success Mindset for Interior Designers

Learn how to adopt a mindset of success based on defining goals to inform your decision making — from everyday decisions to far-reaching ones.

Course 4: How to Confidently Price Your Interior Design Services

Pricing design services combines art and science. We simplify the complexities of pricing strategies and empower you to find an approach that works for both your bottom line and your clients.

Course 5: Working Wonders With Interior Design Vendors and Subs

How do you get the best help in executing your vision? You’ll learn essential strategies for finding reliable vendors, retaining quality subcontractors and building successful partnerships across the board.

Course 6: How to Communicate Like a Leader

Leading a team requires both vision and communication skills. You’ll learn all about active listening and how to speak to your team, subs and other project partners in a way that maximizes your impact as a leader.

Stay tuned for what we’ll cover in courses 7 through 10 later this year!

Meet the Business Coaches

John McClain

Founder, creative director and CEO of the 15-time Houzz Award-winning firm John McClain Design in Los Angeles, John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach and speaker, as well as the author of the book The Designer Within and host of a podcast of the same name. Not only has he appeared on HGTV and designed homes across the United States, including for several celebrity clients, but he founded a home furnishings company, John McClain Home, after learning the ins and outs of quality craftsmanship and unique designs.

John uses his lifetime passion for interior design not just to create memorable homes but to help other interior designers reach their goals in business and beyond.

Christine Woodward

Founder and CEO of renowned consulting firm for designers and architects 19th&CO in San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York, Christine has more than 15 years’ experience as an interior designer, holds a master’s degree in architecture, has studied management at Harvard University and is pursuing an MBA at Johns Hopkins University. As the firm’s principal consultant, she specializes in recruiting, leadership and management coaching, and the seamless implementation of growth strategies.

A catalyst for change and an unwavering accountability partner, Christine ignites transformative shifts within organizations, driving a culture of continuous improvement. Her forte is motivating and orchestrating enhancements in team organization and nurturing an environment primed for future success. Passionate about aligning businesses with their future goals, Christine navigates strategic implementations that are aligned with clients’ personal and professional needs.

Before establishing 19th&CO, Christine made impactful contributions at leading firms in the design industry, including interior design powerhouse Gensler and world-renowned advertising agency McCann Worldgroup.

Houzz Pro subscribers: Access course content here 

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