The Affluent Creative Melissa Galt

In the world of interior design, business owners are constantly juggling a gazillion tasks. From advertising to installations, networking, and social media, you do it all. Unfortunately, that leaves less time and energy for the activities that bring you real profit. 
 
You started your business to make money, doing what you love…design. It’s often the case that many designers are so bogged down with low-dollar tasks, that their finances and creativity both take a hit. If you want to increase your profit and engage in the work you love doing, then you must start focusing your efforts on the right activities. I remind my clients, “Where your focus goes, your finances flow.” 
 
In today’s episode, I share how to distinguish between high-dollar and low-dollar tasks, so you can prioritize activities that directly contribute to your profit. While low-dollar tasks are necessary activities within your business that must be completed, they are not a priority. As a designer and business owner, you should focus on tasks that impact your bottom line and require higher levels of expertise and skill. 
Discover which activities you should prioritize and which you should outsource when it comes to administrative tasks, marketing and advertising, sales, creative work, and more. You only have a finite amount of time. Knowing where your time is going each day will make a big difference. Let’s find out where you’re spending your time, so we can make you more money!

In this episode, you will hear:
Specific examples of high-dollar and low-dollar tasks in your business
The importance of a money-positive mindset and becoming more comfortable with financial conversations
Why it's so important to “dollarize” and prioritize according to profit levels
Why you need to run your numbers every month 


Mentioned:

Episode 081: The Four Steps to Landing Every Project (Design Discovery Process)


 
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We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
 


Supporting Resources
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com

Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Working in design, we know how important a living space can be for our clients’ well-being. We design entire rooms looking for ways to make our clients’ lives easier, more efficient, and more beautiful. But, how often do we do the same for ourselves? 
I’m not just talking about our curated office spaces. When was the last time you purged yourself of those old files, cleaned up your drive, and really took an inventory of your projects, resources, and client files? You might be surprised at how much what you hold onto is holding you back. I know this from experience–I have gone through my fair share of slow times in my business and I had to learn the hard way how my anxious reactions were not serving me. 
Today, I’m sharing my hard-won tips to prepare for your future profits without getting sidetracked by anxiety. Learn how the energy you project can draw positive outcomes and why decluttering both your physical and digital spaces is essential for creativity and productivity. We’ll also dive into practical tips for archiving old project materials and updating sample libraries to make room for fresh opportunities. 
Discover how visual clutter can stifle your creativity and get actionable strategies to foster a workspace that not only looks good but feels inviting and energizing. Let’s tackle those fears that you’re holding onto and stop them from holding you back!
In this episode, you will hear:
Opportunities for decluttering to create an environment that fosters confidence and positivity
Strategies for managing fluctuating demands using tools like whiteboards and Google Calendar to track projects
Tips on maintaining a visually organized workspace that fuels your own creativity
The correlation between the depth of client relationships and the height of business revenue
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Feeling like you're constantly chasing your tail in your design practice? I know I've been there—drowning in emails, juggling multiple tasks, and never quite feeling like I'm on solid ground. However, the most important thing to remember about overwhelm is that it is just your perspective on a moment in time. It does not have to be your reality. I've found a lifeline through simple, yet effective strategies to curb the chaos and I’m here to walk you through five key steps to take back control. From setting non-negotiable communication boundaries to the benefits of an organized, color-coded calendar, you’ll say goodbye to the paralysis of overload and hello to the well-oiled machine that is your creative business.
Imagine your day compartmentalized into neat, color-coded blocks, each dedicated to a specific task—no more bouncing between tasks like a pinball. In this episode, I share the transformative power of time blocking using accessible tools like Google Calendar. You'll learn how to prioritize effectively with just an index card and why multitasking might actually be your kryptonite. Plus, I'll let you in on the secret to maintaining a sense of accomplishment and focus, cultivating control in your professional journey and personal life. Each segment of your day can be a stepping stone to building a thriving practice without feeling like you're constantly on the brink.
I've got some creative communication tactics up my sleeve that will endear you to your clients and keep them excited about the progress of their projects while still setting clear boundaries for your time. And for those who are ready to take their creative business to stratospheric levels, I'm rolling out the red carpet to the Go Beyond Intensive event in sunny Scottsdale. It's a chance to connect, learn, and grow with fellow designers who are all about embracing smart systems and a mindset that propels them forward. So tune in, get inspired, and let's journey together toward a design practice that nurtures your extraordinary life without the burnout.
In this episode, you will hear:
Strategies to eliminate overwhelm in your design practice
The importance of regular project updates and setting communication boundaries
Ways to use time-blocking tools like Google Calendar for productivity
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach 
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Free: what does it make you think of? A bargain? A steal? Now consider…are those concepts really the ideas you want your clients to associate with your brand? Whether we like it or not, words are loaded with associations and, starting now, this is one word I want you to avoid in your branding. Free does not encourage engagement or investment into your services. A complimentary gift, however, is priceless.
Let's talk about how the subtle art of offering 'complimentary' services, rather than ‘free’, not only upholds the value of your work but transforms the way clients see your business. In this episode, I'll share, from my own blunders and triumphs in the world of design, the transformative power of terminology in the services you offer. From the overlooked digital downloads that clutter our inboxes to the impactful strategy of nurturing client relationships with value-packed, complimentary offerings, you’ll learn how to avoid diminishing your worth and instead, position your work as the generous gift it is.
Remember the last time a simple act of kindness turned a good day into a great one? That's the feeling you should be striving to recreate for clients with special, unexpected surprises that foster a sense of exclusivity and appreciation. We'll discuss how to weave this art of surprise into your design business, creating an exclusive client experience that not only fosters loyalty but also ignites word-of-mouth. Whether you're looking to refine your approach or seeking inspiration on how to enrich client interactions, join me as we redefine the standards of service and success in the creative industry.
In this episode, you will hear:
The difference between "complimentary" and "free" 
The psychological effects of freebies and how they can lead to clutter and diminished appreciation of your services
Strategies for using complimentary offerings to enhance client relationships and maintain the integrity of your work's worth
The importance of surprise and thoughtful gestures in creating a memorable and loyal client base
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Ever felt lost in the maze of design decisions, wondering if you're making the right choices for your clients? As a designer, it is important to embrace your role as a navigator, steering your clients towards the beautiful and functional spaces they dream of. This episode is brimming with insights on how to assert your expertise from the get-go, ensuring your clients see you as not just a designer, but as a visionary leader. From the thrill of the discovery phase to confidently handling challenging proposals and redlines, I'll share the secrets to solidifying client relationships that thrive long after the last piece of furniture is placed.
The landscape of interior design is evolving, and staying ahead means adapting with grace and innovation. Today, I delve into the art of transforming spaces with detailed renderings that bring your vision to life, and the shift towards leveraging online resources. Discover how to set the stage for success with strategies that showcase your adaptability and meticulous planning. I'll also discuss the art of setting clear expectations through disclaimers, ensuring your designs are not only protected but poised for enhancement, with the vast selection of resources at our disposal.
In a world where choice can overwhelm, we can save our clients from the dreaded decision fatigue and keep their journey toward a perfect home enjoyable and stress-free. As your guide through these intricacies, I aim to empower you to maintain control, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve a harmonious final installation that reflects your vision as a creative expert. So, whether you're an emerging designer or a seasoned pro, join us in this conversation for insights that will help you lead your clients with confidence.
In this episode, you will hear:
Why you need to take the lead in the discovery process
How standing your ground in agreement negotiations can reinforce your expertise and pave the way to successful project completion
Ways to streamline your design process
Smart strategies that you can use to more effectively manage the delivery and placement of your clients’ pieces
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Did you know that there are three actionable ways to guarantee every project that you take on will grow your business? Leveraging client testimonials, referrals, and photography are the best ways to use your prior successes to propel your future ones. Today, I’m deep-diving into each so that you can be more successful with every project you take on.
From the art of amplifying your brand's credibility using client testimonials to the value of top-notch photography, my tips will have you securing referrals that will blossom into your dream client list. You won’t have to wonder where your next project will spring from because you’ll have a steady stream of ideal clientele already dying to work with you. 
Discover how to deepen client relationships with personalized touches, ensuring your work remains etched in their memory. I’ll share methods for seeking referrals that reflect your past triumphs and set the stage for a thriving future filled with projects you adore. Prepare to elevate your presence in the industry with strategies that do more than just showcase your talent! Tune in today and let's ensure your client list is as curated and impactful as the work you put out into the world.
In this episode, you will hear:
How to deepen client relationships and leverage client testimonials effectively to enhance your brand’s credibility 
The significance of professional photography in showcasing projects to grow your client base
Techniques for acquiring client referrals that align with your desired project types and clientele
Strategies for getting your work published in both digital and print media
Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
Testimonial Writing Service
How to Get Press, Amy Flurry
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.