The Design Pop Imagine a Place

What truly drives collaboration between sales reps and designers? Today, we cut through the noise to explore how technology and simplified processes can foster better partnerships.

Join us as we hear from industry experts Lindsey Shepherd, owner of Full Circle, and Tom Caterino, principal at Contract Sources in Boston, as they share how they use technology and unique approaches to communication to create harmonious and impactful relationships that deliver real results for their businesses and people.

But wait, there’s more! Alexandra also examines survey results from the North American Independent Rep Council (NAIRC), hosted by Jeff Carlson, on the use of specification services and technology by independent rep groups. The results may surprise you.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Aaron Estabrook, Director of Digital Marketing and Media Strategy at OFS, who shares compelling insights on building a personal brand that resonates and stands out in a crowded market. Together, they explore the impact of personal branding on career advancement, the psychological barriers professionals face, and practical strategies for overcoming them. Aaron offers actionable advice on how individuals can express their unique values and skills, enhancing visibility and connections within their industry. This episode is an essential listen for anyone eager to elevate their professional profile and forge meaningful connections in the design world. Whether you're an emerging designer or a seasoned professional, you'll find valuable lessons in building a brand that truly represents who you are and attracts the opportunities you seek.

Are you thinking of "crossing over?"

On this episode, we welcome Alison Kulisek, a designer-turned-salesperson who has experienced multiple "crossover" events in her design industry career. Alison is currently an Account Executive at MDC Interior Solutions and today she'll share her path from dealer designer to sales, discussing the stresses and challenges of both roles.

This episode offers a deep dive into the diverse career trajectories within the design field, exploring the essential skills required to excel in both design and sales roles. Highlighting the significance of embracing risks and innovation, our discussion underscores the necessity of adaptability and courage to distinguish oneself in the ever-evolving design industry.

On today's episode, Laura Boone, co-founder and principal of turnerboone, shares the unique business model and company culture that drives their success. During our chat, Laura discusses prioritizing highly skilled account managers (who have design backgrounds) over traditional commission-based sales, emphasizing hiring for culture fit and developing leaders internally. Laura also highlights embracing remote work for top talent, prioritizing customer experience, and staying open to industry evolution. Her insights offer a glimpse into an innovative dealership structure centered on service excellence and employee satisfaction.

Despite starting his design career in his 30s, Paul Riches has become a distinguished leader at MillerKnoll. Captured during a conversation between long-time industry friends at the CET Experience, Paul traces his winding path to design. From deciding against law school to touring with a heavy metal band, his journey demonstrates how saying "yes" can unlock unforeseen opportunities.

Now a celebrated technological trailblazer, Paul helped push early dealer design software to the limits. He shares valuable insights on innovation, client expectations around speed-to-market, and why designers shouldn't fear AI. Tune in to discover Paul's unconventional trajectory and perspective on technology transforming the workplace.

In the second installment of our series, we delve deeper into the actual practices of dealer design incentives.

Join us as we speak with Brent Matthews, President of Price Modern, who explains the rationale behind introducing designer incentives in their organization.

We'll also engage with two design leaders who take distinctly different approaches to incentives. Joining us are Julia Machado, a familiar voice on The Design Pop, who collaborated with Brent on these incentives, and Kim Melka from Duet Resource Group, bringing a fresh perspective.

To cap off the episode, I'll break down the findings from our online survey about design incentives used by both manufacturers and dealers. This episode is packed with real-world insights that are sure to enlighten you.