What Interior Design Clients Really Want to See Online Before They Hire You

Tell your interior design story to attract new clients

Why First Impressions Online Matter

The process of hiring an interior designer is not unlike how you would go about hiring any service type business. Or maybe it’s how you go about any purchase you make.

First you start by asking your friend for recommendations and or referrals. Afterall, first-hand experience is the most informative source you can find!

Next you might go to the internet, do a quick google search or hop on over to Instagram to see what you can find on your own, or you may google the business your friend recommended to start looking into whether or not they are for you.

So, as an interior designer, you need think of your social media and your website as the “first meeting” with your potential client.

Some studies suggest that 90% of consumers research online before hiring a service professional.

So having a great first impression could be the difference between being considered vs. overlooked.

Clear Process = Confident Clients

Communication is key! Make it easy for your prospective client to understand what happens first, how it works, and what they need to do to prepare, as well as how long the process will take.

Know what people like even more? A bulleted list! Create a 3-step design process or outline your custom interior design roadmap.

Create Transparency Around Pricing & Budgets

Make it easy for a prospective client to determine whether or not they want to work with you by giving them answers to common questions, particularly around pricing. You don’t have to be exact, but providing a range helps them determine if they are in the right place.

Transparency avoids sticker shock and weeds out misaligned leads – saving you time in the end.

Your Portfolio Page Should Tell a Story

Pictures are great, but a story gives them meaning. Create “case studies” about your projects, explaining the challenge, and how you solved it and showcasing the final outcome. Emphasize the lifestyle benefits, not just the beautiful finishes you selected. For example., “We created a mudroom that makes New England winter mornings feel chaos free”

Before and after transformations are always a powerful story.

Testimonials & Social Proof are the real winners

Your prospective client trusts other clients more than your sales pitch. Read that again. It’s true that people are reading those testimonials to see what your clients are saying about you and if they feel like they can relate.

A 5-star Google review is gold, but if you have the opportunity to get a video testimonial, that’s where the real diamonds are! That’s because everyone loves video these days – they are more engaging and feel more credible.

Show Who You Are (Authenticity & Personality)

Get out from behind your computer! This could be the most important tip we give you. Your client wants to see the human behind the design. Afterall, you’re going to be in their homes, and working closely with them for several months, maybe even years, they are looking for ways to connect to you before you’ve even met!

Share images of yourself and your team. Even bloopers are relatable. No one is perfect. Not only will these videos and images help show what it’s like to work with you, they will start to build a relationship with your prospective client.

Videos, behind the scences and photos of you doing your day-to-day work add relatability to your business. Share your philosophy, your values and your connection to the local community.

Call-to-Action That Feels Welcoming

Be careful with your words. Working with an interior designer is a very personal project. Don’t just say “Contact Us”. Use warm, inviting calls to action like, “Let’s start your dream project.” Or “Book a complimentary discovery call.”

Don’t leave the calls to action to the bottom of the page. Think about what you want your prospective client to do when they land on your page and make it easy for them to get in touch with you.

Quick Checklist: Is Your Online Presence Client-Ready?

✅ Clear process explained

✅ Budget guidance provided

✅ Portfolio with stories

✅ Testimonials highlighted

✅ Authentic “About Us” section

✅ Strong, welcoming call-to-action

Final Thoughts

Your potential clients don’t just want to see pretty pictures, they want reassurance. What is it going to be like to work with you, is working with you within their budget.

As an interior designer, you’re in the relationship business. Make it easy for your clients to understand if they would like to connect with you.

Hillside Marketing is the partner you’ve been looking for. We will help your interior design business showcase exactly what your clients are looking for.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as a substitute for a personal consultation with Pam Oulundsen or specific business advice tailored to your individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, Hillside Marketing does not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of any information provided. Readers are advised to seek professional guidance tailored to their specific needs before making any business decisions.