With the popularity of shows like Design Star, Trading Spaces and Extreme Home Makeover, many are now vying for job opportunities in Interior Decorating/Design. Getting into this profession can take many years. Whether you go for formal schooling, or learn on the job, Interior Decorating/Design is a very competitive field, and one that will require a lot of work and effort to achieve success.
Possibly you’re interested in this field but are not up to all of the challenges required to break into it. There are many jobs that involve working in this industry without your being a formal designer. Let’s look at some of these opportunities.
- Furniture Stores - In furniture sales you can really put your flair for decorating/design to work. You must be a people person and team player, able to work well under pressure, be self-motivated and sales oriented. Most furniture sales positions offer a paid salary plus commission.
- Consultant /Home Improvement Stores - There are many opportunities available with building supply companies. Work in sales/customer service in the lighting, flooring or drapery design departments, or work as a consultant helping customers with supply orders and design plans for kitchen and bath remodels. You will need to be able to work well with the public, have pretty good math skills and be willing to work evenings and weekends. Check with your local building supply store for more specific information, or go on line for opportunities with national companies like Home Depot, Lowe’s or Menards.
- Department Stores - Many department stores have home interior departments. These departments offer opportunities to specialize in consulting and the sale of home interior products like draperies, bedding and/or appliances. Some of these positions are salaried, while others offer either a combination of salary and commission or straight commission.
- Paint/Wallcovering Stores - Look into opportunities with your local paint and wallpaper stores. Some job options might include retail sales, outside sales (calling on corporate clients) and tinter/custom color specialists (using formulas to produce custom paint colors). Some opportunities might also be available for painters/paper hangers. These jobs may require experience, but you might be able to get someone to train you on the job.
- Specialty Boutiques like Art Galleries or Oriental Rug Shops - These jobs will require a very creative and artistic eye. You will probably be helping customers make selections and will more than likely work on straight commission. You will need to be highly professional and well-versed in your subject matter. You can also expect to work quite a bit with professional designers which might lead to further career opportunities.
These opportunities can be permanent careers or stepping stones into other areas of interior decorating/design. Happy Decorating!
