EP 078 | How Interior Designers Can Answer Tough Client Questions with Michelle Binette

September 17, 2018

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What should you say when a potential client asks a difficult question?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is put on the spot by Michelle Binette, who asks the kinds of questions interior designers hear every day from prospective clients. Through role-playing and real-world examples, Kimberley demonstrates how prepared responses can increase confidence, improve communication, and help designers guide client conversations more effectively.

For interior designers looking to strengthen their sales process and client interactions, this episode offers practical language and strategies you can use immediately.

In this episode, we learn:
• Why designers should sell the consultation before selling the project
• How to qualify clients and address budget concerns early in the process
• How to confidently ask for the job and move the conversation forward
• Why saying no to the wrong client protects your business and profitability
• How to discuss fees and pricing with greater confidence
• Why reviewing your contract line by line helps prevent misunderstandings and build trust

 

Design Intervention

Consider role-playing to gain confidence in dealing with client questions.

 

Interior decorator, Michelle Binette of Michelle Binette Design, is best known for her down-to-earth attitude and fun client experience. She specializes in decorating projects, offering customized packages ranging from designs clients can execute on their own to full service where clients don’t have to lift a finger.

In 2016 Michelle transitioned to interior decorator after a 15-year marketing career, which is where her attention to client satisfaction is rooted. Decorating can be overwhelming and stressful, but Michelle’s rare ability to blend creativity and a systematic approach ensures the journey is one clients enjoy.

Michelle has worked on countless residential projects and been featured in Design*Sponge and Rue Magazine. When she’s not changing the world one throw pillow at a time, you can find her listening to a podcast or catching up on reality TV.

Michelle recently launched a podcast called ‘Business Homies’ where she shares her experiences and picks the brain of designers, decorators and industry experts so she can level up her business (and yours!).

You can learn more about Michelle at michellebinette.com.

Michelle is coming back on for a quick hit one month from now and she’s going to describe what happens when she reads the contract line by line. I cannot wait for that!

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.

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