Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Libby Slader . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Libby , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Please tell us about starting your own firm and if you’d do anything different knowing what you know now.

For a long time, I had the desire to go out on my own and start a business. It wasn’t until my Dad passed away unexpectedly and I knew I couldn’t stay in a firm where I was undervalued and under appreciated for one more day. I needed to do something to make myself happy and get a sense of control back into my life.

Something that I afforded myself was patience. Patience is not a passive emotion, it is more of a skill. Do one thing every day to move your company forward. Contact a potential new client or collaborator, go to a networking event or post something on social media. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time, but the cumulative benefits pay off.

Rapid growth and success is often met by someone who is not prepared for it and the momentum cannot be sustained by an inexperienced person. Incremental growth, goal setting and realistic expectations is key to long term success.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When I was growing up, I was fortunate that my parents and teachers supported my interest in the arts and allowed me to explore my creative side. My Dad was a builder, so floor plans and building techniques fascinated me. When I decided to go to college for interior design, 40 years ago, the industry was not what it is today. I was fortunate to come out of school and work for various firms from all over the country and I learned so much from those experiences. After working on many types of design projects, I realized that hospitality and workspace design is what interested me the most, so that is what I choose to focus on. Every business is different and I love learning about each business’ unique culture and goals. We learn from them and design physical space that functions for and reflects their particular needs. In terms of restaurant spaces, we feel that the operational aspects of a space are just as important as the customer facing spaces. Efficient and intuitive spaces create a better work environment. Helping other small businesses thrive is our true measure of success.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

The most important tool in engaging a team is to appreciate them. Everyone has their strengths and their weaknesses, just as I do, and I try to foster and pull out the best in people. I once had a manager who said “thank you” every time we said goodbye for the day. That small gesture made me feel so appreciated and made me want to come back to work the next day. I do the same for my team. Being flexible with people’s schedule and allowing them leeway when it comes to working hours is also key. Respecting that most people take a huge amount of pride in their work and as creatives, sometimes 9-5 doesn’t fit the mold for everyone.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Although we are designers, we are in the service industry. It’s important to recognize that we are working in the best interest of our clients and not driven by our own creative egos. We are very often referred by previous clients so establishing and keeping a positive relationship with all of our clients is a goal of ours. Being a team player with the other professionals on a project, such as the architect, owner’s project manager, engineers, contractors and other design professionals is also important. We are often asked by architects to be part of their project team. Most architecture firms here do not have separate interior design departments within their firms. And likewise, we bring in other design professionals into our projects, as needed. Establishing a good relationship with others in your field allows for awesome collaboration and a more successful outcome.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.libbyslader.com
• Instagram: Libby Slader Design
• Linkedin: Libby Slader