It is estimated that only one in every five interior designers has any kind of formal marketing plan. They usually only market when business is slow and they more or less advertise in an impromptu manner. There are several ways to work on your interior design marketing. I will just name a few of the many ideas.

If you want to market your interior design business and see results, follow some simple guidelines to put you ahead of the game in your industry. You should first research your competition. Learn what they are doing to attract business. Find out where they are marketing their business and who they are targeting.

Take several pictures of your work and publish them in trade publications. Also include any specials or other items of interest you want to promote. Arrange speaking engagements whenever possible and have a professional sounding, well prepared speech ready.

Another great idea for interior design marketing is to create a portfolio with plenty of samples of your work. Put it together in a format that is easy to add new items or update. Rent a booth at trade shows or buy advertising time on radio or local television stations.

Any lead is a potential customer. Don't presume any lead is not worth the effort. Even if a particular lead does not turn into a future customer, they may send others your way if you keep a professional demeanor and treat each lead special.

If all else fails, don't forget cold calling. Okay, calm down. Take a deep breath. I know, I know, cold calling is every business person's least favorite part of the job. However, for every ten cold calls, you will receive one positive answer. So if you make ten calls and you get one appointment, that's one more than you had before. Persistence is the key in cold calling. It will be frustrating and discouraging if you make 25, 50 or 100 calls and get no more than one or two appointments but don't give up. It will pay off in the end.

If your current clients are happy with your services, ask them for referrals. If they are truly pleased with what you have to offer, they will be happy to send more business your way. Equally important as gaining customers is keeping customers. Be sure you keep your clientele happy by resolving issues as soon as they arise.

Always, keep a positive attitude and display confidence in your demeanor. People will be more likely to hire a self-confident business professional. Give your customers a reason to come back. Offer something that your competition doesn't offer or find a unique way to promote your business. Anticipate a client's needs or questions and have the solution ready.

Following these simple tips and ideas will not only help you generate business, but will help you keep that business for years to come. Not only will you keep the business of loyal, return customers, soon you will be receiving the majority of your new business from referrals from satisfied customers and your client base will continue to grow.