Starting out as an interior designer means battling two things: overwhelming competition and the constant need to prove your value. But here’s the secret—credibility doesn’t come from years of experience, it comes from the right moves, right now.
Here’s the truth: clients are looking for reassurance before they spend money. They need to feel confident that they’re hiring a trustworthy professional who can bring their vision to life.
So, how do you build credibility that gets clients to say “yes” from the very first glance?
From setting up a legit email address to investing in a standout website, here are 5 no-nonsense ways for you to establish instant design credibility—no fancy degrees or big-name projects required.
1. Get a real email address.
Using a free, generic email address like Gmail? Instant credibility-killer.
A custom email (hello@yourdesigns.com) instantly boosts your credibility. It shows you’re serious, professional, and ready to compete.
A custom email address is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to build trust with potential clients.
If you want to stand out even more, pair it with a professional email signature that includes your name, business title, and contact info.
You can secure a domain and set up email for less than dinner out. It’s a small price to pay for big credibility. Start here, and everything else follows.
2. Invest in a website.
No website? You don’t exist.
Think of your website as your 24/7 showroom. A business without a website is like a store with no windows or signage. It’s hard for clients to trust something they can’t find or research. Even when you’re just starting, a solid website establishes instant credibility. Seriously, it’s the essential tool for anyone serious about their design business.
Keep it simple—clean design, clear navigation, and a visible call to action (book a consultation, get in touch). You don’t need something flashy, but you do need something that works.
Here’s a powerful tip: If you’re just getting started, you don’t need to wait until your portfolio is packed with projects. You can showcase your design process, share a few concepts, or discuss your design philosophy to build interest.
Once you nail the core pages, spend some time crafting your About page. This is where you can delve deeper into your story—why you got into design, what inspires you, and what sets you apart from other designers. This helps clients understand your passion and builds a deeper connection.
Don’t skip the website, even if you’re starting small. Your website lets you control your narrative and showcase your portfolio. Don’t let social media or third-party platforms do all the talking.
A well-designed site is the foundation for attracting clients and building your brand, especially if it’s a website that can grow with you.
3. Put a face in the portfolio.
People don’t just hire portfolios. They hire people.
A photo of you connects the human side of your business. A professional, friendly image lets clients know there’s a real designer ready to collaborate.
This isn’t about vanity—it’s about building trust.
Your photo should reflect your style and personality, whether modern, traditional, warm, colorful, whatever. If you have a team, assistant, or collaborator, show them off! Clients love to know who they’re working with, and it humanizes your business even more.
A photo of you and your team at work, brainstorming, or in action can help potential clients feel even more connected to you.
Tip: If you specialize in sustainable design or work with specific materials, consider posting a photo of you sourcing materials. This gives a personal touch and shows your clients your commitment to your values.
Put real people in front of the camera. Clients trust people, not faceless brands.
4. Invest in photography of your projects
Stock photos? Not for you.
Stock photos are forgettable. Your projects deserve real, high-quality photography.
Your work deserves better than stock photos. It deserves original, high-quality photos that showcase the real magic you bring to a space.
A professional photo doesn’t just show a space. It tells a story and highlights your unique style—texture, light, and energy. Your photos need to help potential clients feel like they’re stepping into the space themselves.
When clients browse your portfolio, they want to see YOUR work, not a generic stock photo that could belong to anyone.
- IDEA: Sketches and moodboards. Clients love to see the journey, not just the destination. Include photos that show the process behind your projects—sketches, mood boards, or in-progress shots. These not only make your portfolio more dynamic but also highlight your creativity and problem-solving skills.
- IDEA: Time-lapse content. Consider taking a few time-lapse videos or shots throughout the day while you’re designing or setting up a project. These behind-the-scenes glimpses allow potential clients to feel like they’re part of the design journey.
- IDEA: Take detail shots. When photographing your designs, don’t just shoot wide-angle shots of the room. Take close-up photos of textures, finishes, and design details that show off your attention to detail. These types of images highlight the quality of your work and give clients a deeper understanding of your craft.
If professional photography isn’t in the budget, use a high-quality camera yourself. Your work deserves to be shown the right way.
5. Gather and display client testimonials ASAP
Nothing builds credibility faster than client testimonials.
Even if you’re just starting out, collect testimonials from your first clients as social proof. (Or friends, or even people who’ve seen your work in progress)
You don’t need long, detailed reviews—you just need honest feedback that highlights your strengths and professionalism.
If you’re early on, consider offering discounted or pro bono work in exchange for a testimonial. When potential clients see others trust you, your credibility skyrockets.
DO: Use social media if you don’t have formal testimonials yet. Ask happy clients to post their own photos of your work and tag you in their posts. This informal social proof can be just as valuable as written testimonials.
DO: Create a simple and clear process for clients to submit testimonials. After a project is complete, email your clients a link to a feedback form, or ask them to leave a review on platforms like Google or Yelp. The easier you make it for clients, the more likely they’ll take the time to leave feedback.
Once you’ve got a few, put them front and center on your website and social media. Word of mouth is powerful, and when people see that others have trusted you and been happy with the results, it immediately boosts your credibility.
Review and next steps
Building credibility as a new interior designer isn’t an overnight process.
But by following these steps, you’ll give yourself a head start at standing out in a competitive market. It’s about taking small, strategic actions—like investing in a website, showcasing your work with high-quality photos, and gathering social proof—that will add up to big results.
Jumpstart your business with a 15-minute consultation. It could be the best $0 you ever spend.