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The Design Clarity Weekly

Navigating Confusion in Your Design Business

Published 22 days ago • 2 min read

Design Clarity Weekly

Helping Design Professionals Streamline, Simplify & Succeed

Hey Lovely!

Last week, spring arrived—and this week, winter decided to make a comeback! But it’s not just Mother Nature feeling a little confused.

I’ve had several calls this week, and confusion seems to be a common theme. From unclear expectations to mixed-up schedules and uncertainty about what comes next, it’s a reminder that a well-defined process can make all the difference.

Here’s what happened to me recently.....​
A couple of weeks ago, I had a discovery call with a potential design client looking to renovate their kitchen. After the call, I followed up with an email summary and an invitation to schedule their initial consult. Once the consult was booked and paid for, my email sequence kicked in to educate and prepare them for those two hours with me.

This process is a crucial part of my workflow because I never want my clients to feel uncertain about what’s happening—especially during what I call the exploratory/discovery phase.

When expectations are clear, confusion disappears. Let’s bring that same clarity to your design business! 🌟

Now, let’s dive in! 🚀

Tips, Tools & Takeaways for Designers

This week's tips:

✅ Clear Communication: Set clear expectations from the start. I send three emails once the initial consult has been booked to ensure clarity:
✅ Email 1: Sent immediately after booking, confirming the details and linking to a blog post of mine- What to expect on the first date with your designer.
✅ Email 2: Sent three days later with tips to prepare for the consult and a free download of the questions I will be asking during the consult.
✅ Email 3: Sent on day 5 as a final reminder and prep guide.

✅ Audit Your Processes: Heading into Q2, take a step back and assess your current workflows. Are there any steps that feel redundant or outdated? Simplify wherever possible to save time and reduce overwhelm. Those emails I mentioned above: They are templates and all I have to do is schedule them.

✅ Batch Your Content Creation: Set aside time each week (your CEO Date) to write multiple emails, create/schedule social media posts, or update project notes. Batching helps you stay ahead without feeling rushed.

​

2 Resources to Check Out

📌 CRM Recommendation: Consider programs like Dubsado or Mydoma to automate contracts, proposals, and invoices, keeping everything organized in one place.

📌 New Blog Post:What to Expect on the first date – Properly prepare your clients for their initial consultation with you.

1 Question for You

🤔 How do you currently prepare your clients for their initial consultation?​
Do you have a system in place to set clear expectations and ensure they’re ready for a productive first meeting? I’d love to hear how you approach this crucial phase! 😊

Want More Support?

If you’re ready to simplify your business and reclaim your time, let’s chat. My Bring Calm to Chaos Program is designed to help you streamline, simplify, and create the work-life balance you deserve. Not sure where to start? Book a free strategy call with me here.​

Here’s to more ease, balance, and joy in your business and life! 💛

Warmly,​
Marsha

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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The Design Clarity Weekly

Marsha Sefcik

Sent every Friday, this quick 5-minute read is packed with actionable tips to help you streamline your design business. Written by Marsha Sefcik, a trusted business coach for design professionals, you'll learn how to simplify workflows, master client onboarding, and improve your design-related copy. Join hundreds of design professionals who already benefit from this free, weekly resource!

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