Personally, I love Instagram. I believe it’s absolutely key for designers to utilise this tool to showcase their portfolio, style and personal brand. 

However, I know it’s not for everybody. For many designers out there, the pressure of social media can send them into a downward spiral. Keeping up with the algorithm and creating endless Reels can be exhausting. 

If this is you, you might be wondering if it’s even possible to grow your business without it. 

The good news? There are some extremely effective ways to elevate your business visibility and growth without relying on social media. 

So let’s dive into my top ten tips to use in conjunction with Instagram – or allow you to spend a little less time on it. 

1. Leverage Google My Business – If you’re serving a local audience, this is a must. Keeping your Google My Business profile vibrant with recent photos, updates and client testimonials is crucial. Frequent updates signal Google’s algorithm, potentially elevating your ranking. Encourage your clients to leave quality reviews, as these are critical ranking factors.

2. Optimise Your SEO – SEO remains your best friend for long-term visibility. Refresh your content regularly and optimise image and page titles with relevant keywords. Investing in SEO enhances your website’s performance in local searches and pays dividends in the long run.

3. Embrace Blogging – Blogging is your secret weapon for establishing authority and improving your search rankings. Combine blogging with Google My Business and SEO to amplify results. Write topical content with strategic keywords and don’t forget to share your posts on Pinterest to drive more traffic.

4. Email Marketing Strategy – Building an email list is non-negotiable. It’s a powerful means to engage clients directly and convert leads into loyal customers. Use platforms like Flodesk to segment and personalise your communication. Remember, email marketing often yields higher conversion rates than social media.

5. Network With Referral Sources – Building relationships with local businesses can be a goldmine for interior designers. Identify services your clients use before and after hiring you, like architects or real estate agents, and cultivate those connections. Referrals are a two-way street—be generous with your own recommendations.

6. Utilise Local Facebook Groups – These groups can be a treasure trove for generating business, especially when starting out. Get involved by offering valuable advice and participating consistently. Remember to be generous with your knowledge rather than expecting instant sales.

7. Offer a Stellar Client Experience – From day one, ensure your client experience is exceptional. It can be effective when clients refer you in the midst of their project, not just at the end. Capture feedback or glowing reviews when the excitement is high and everyone’s spirits are lifted.

8. Confidently Niche Your Services – Why blend in when you can stand out? In a sea of talented designers, differentiation is key to moving the needle. By narrowing your focus, you hone your expertise, deepen your skillset, and attract clients that align with your vision. Having a clear niche not only simplifies your branding but strengthens your market position. As you specialise, your reputation in that niche deepens, drawing more attention and potential clients.

9. Re-engage Past Clients – Your existing clientele is a valuable resource. Periodically offer them exclusive deals or previews tailored to their tastes and past interactions. Consistent re-engagement can result in repeat business or referrals to their network. 

10. Attend Trade Shows – Trade events open doors to invaluable networking opportunities. By mingling with industry counterparts such as builders and fabric houses, you set the stage for potential referrals. The connections you forge here could turn into fruitful collaborations or recommendations

I hope these strategies offer you some relief from the pressures of performing on socials, and inspire you to try out some sustainable growth pathways that keep your business vibrant and connected. 

So, get excited and reach out to someone new in your business today!

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