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DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Decisions, Decisions
Design students just starting out must determine if they
are prepared for the responsibilities of being a new business owner.
by Sharon L. Anderson
CHALLENGE:
I have just graduated mid-term having completed my major
in interior design with an emphasis in business. I find I have many
important decisions to make, one of which is my decision regarding
where I would like to apply for a job . . . or would I rather start
my own design firm with an emphasis on window treatments as a high-end
specialty?
During the course of my education, I was not able to complete an
internship related to interior design. Could you please offer some
possibilities on a career path and explain the pros and cons of
starting your own business as opposed to working for a large company?
SOLUTION: To start,
congratulations for completing your degree in interior design. That’s
an important first step!
It is always tough making decisions right out of college regarding
your future in the business arena. It’s tough out there, and
making the right decision from the beginning can make all the difference
and give you the edge on your competitors. It must be said, however,
that it is not the most ideal thing not to have completed an internship
in your given area of interest while in school. I always stress
to my students that real-work experience while you are in school
is to your advantage.
Here is what I would suggest: First, when deciding on your area
of specialty, narrow your interests. You have indicated that you
have done this already. Window treatments will play an integral
part of your business. Second, ask yourself this question, “Do
I have enough knowledge and experience in the area of window treatment
design to open my own business and also concentrate on other aspects
of interior design?” If the answer is even slightly “No,”
I would suggest that rather than going out on your own, you would
benefit from starting work with a company that will offer you the
training and knowledge you need to equip yourself in this specific
area.
Too many decorators, interior designers, furniture salespeople,
window treatment specialists and many others in this area of interior
design and decoration start off selling and yet have no knowledge
or expertise in this given area. Your education is very valuable.
Placing the knowledge you have gained in a real work environment
is like taking graduate-level courses on your way to an advanced
degree.
Many colleges and universities are recognizing the importance of
hands-on experience in the field. Starting out by going to work
for a company or large firm will have the same advantages such as
hands-on training, but also will provide teamwork and the ability
to build from a client list that you probably wouldn’t have
as somebody who is first starting out. Additional job-related advantages
such as benefits, including important health and retirement benefits,
are wonderful incentives that may not be possible when you first
open a business. Best of all, your employer is paying you to learn,
in a sense. There’s also the chance that you find you like
the atmosphere at the firm and make a career out of it!
The list of all the pitfalls and financial burdens involved in starting
off new in business is too long to mention here. If you are ready
to give, give and give of your time and money for the first couple
of years, it will eventually pay off. The most important qualification
for starting your own business is to make sure you have prepared
yourself for all the responsibilities of a new business owner. I
would suggest reading a few books and publications from the Small
Business Administration first (www.sba.gov). Here you will find
a wealth of information on what to expect when opening up your first
business. After reading some of this information, you should then
evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each career path open
to you.
Editor’s note: This is a continuing series of articles
written by Sharon L. Anderson that will answer some of the many
questions we receive at Draperies & Window Coverings as well
as questions Anderson has encountered in her own business. If you
have a question you would like Anderson to address, please send
it to:
Design Solutions
c/o Draperies & Window Coverings
1724 E. Grand Ave.
Lindenhurst, IL 60046
Fax: (847) 356-9013
E-mail: SharonAnderson@adelphia.net
Sharon L. Anderson has more than 20 years experience in the
residential and commercial areas of interior design. She is currently
a faculty member at two Southern California colleges. Anderson has
been featured in numerous books and publications. |
