Talent in Transition: Five Ways to Future Proof Your Career Right Now
Over the past few months, I’ve had many conversations with interior designers who are feeling a little unsure about their next step. The job market has noticeably slowed down, and for many, it feels like a bit of a waiting game.
But while permanent roles might be trickier to come by, this pause is nudging many interior designers to upskill, diversify, and perhaps take their careers in a slightly new direction.
Whether that’s diving into a short course on Cinema 4D, doing a PRINCE 2 qualification to transfer into project / design management or even exploring consultancy or lecturing, upskilling is almost a must.
Having worked in recruitment for interior designers since 2005 one thing that has remained important during slower periods is prioritising being visible (online and face to face), being open-minded, and sometimes stepping slightly outside your comfort zone.
Here are five practical steps you can take to stay relevant, visible, and in demand.
- Build a Stronger Digital Presence
If a creative director or client searched for you right now, what would they find?
With LinkedIn being the number one place to be found for work, what would be their first impression? Treat the ‘About’ section on LinkedIn like the front page of your CV. Add contact details, highlight recent projects, and showcase your specialisms — hospitality/ retail / workplace etc.
- Upskill with Purpose
Now is the perfect time to plug any gaps. Brush up on Revit, learn SketchUp or improve how you present, short courses can give your confidence (and CV) a boost.
- Diversify Your Offering
Can you offer FF&E consultancy? Styling for photo shoots or editorial? Some interior designers are finding success by freelancing in niche areas or working with smaller studios on specific project phases. You don’t need to reinvent yourself, try to spotlight the range of what you already know.
- Be Seen (Even If You’re Not Job-Hunting)
Posting regularly, commenting on others’ work, or attending design events all help keep your name top of mind. Studios remember the names they keep seeing, especially when a big pitch comes in and they need extra hands, fast!
- Stay Open
It’s easy to feel deflated when interviews stall or your inbox is quiet. But things will pick up. In the meantime, stay open to unexpected paths; Maybe that’s mentoring, teaching, or short-term freelance projects all can be possibilities that lead to longer-term opportunities.
Your creativity, your work ethic, and your experience still hold real value.
Keep sharing your work. Keep connecting. Keep learning. And when the right opportunity does knock you’ll be more than ready.
