Want to restart your career as an interior designer after a career break? Read this comprehensive guide to know how you can enter the field after a period of professional inactivity!
Career breaks are often a hard subject to talk about. They were almost considered a taboo at one point in time. However, this is no longer the case, especially in interior design- a field known for welcoming professionals at every stage in their careers.
Interior Design offers opportunities to work on your own time and decide your own processes. You can easily start or re-start your career in the field using the plethora of resources available online and offline.
If you are someone who is planning to enter the world of interior design after a career break, this blog is perfect for you! We will be discussing in detail the various steps you can take to venture into the field and how to crack an interior design job. So, scroll down to know the solid entry plan to pave your way in the industry!
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Interior Designer After a Career Break
Entering the field of interior design after a career break can be a challenge. However, it is not impossible. Read on for a step-by-step guide to breaking the entry barriers and starting your journey as an interior designer.
1. Pursue a Certification
Pursuing an interior design course or certification can be your first step toward entering the industry. A certification not only helps you learn the basic concepts and important tools but also adds significant weight to your resume. An interior design certificate can help you learn the field's nitty-gritty and build a strong network via interactions with mentors and peers. Courses by upskilling platforms such as AND Academy facilitate accessible learning with real-time, online classes to help you learn and advance at your own pace.
2. Seek Guidance
Upskilling is an important part of becoming an interior designer after a career break. You need to be constantly on your toes and learn the latest interior design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Cohoom. Constantly studying and applying interior design principles is also an important part of developing your skills as an interior designer.
4. Build a Portfolio
Building an interior design portfolio allows you to have a body of work ready for showcase. At AND Academy, our course facilitates portfolio development to help you learn and apply important skills at the same time. Portfolio building is also important to show potential clients what you are capable of.
5. Network & Build a Community
Networking and community building are especially important for housewives who are venturing into interior design after a career break. From building knowledge to attaining a client base, there is a lot that networking can help you accomplish.
6. Pursue Internships
Internships are a great way of gaining experience, understanding the operational aspects of the industry, and gauging ways in which the field might have changed while you were away. Working in established interior design companies helps you understand what roles you prefer and excel in. It also provides a base for what to expect if you decide to go solo.
7. Do Freelancing
Freelancing allows you to explore different styles and avenues of interior design. You can work with a variety of clients and gain valuable insights into how to run an interior design business. Freelancing is especially beneficial if you want to set up your own firm in the future.
8. Stay Updated with Trends
Interior design trends keep on changing and it is paramount that you stay up to date with them. Knowing the trends will help you keep a tab on what clients expect and also, the different styles, materials, and technologies you need to know for success.
Tips to Land Interior Design Jobs After a Career Break
Now that you know how to enter the field, here is your guide to cracking an interior design job after a career break.
1. Assess Your Career Break
Companies will ask about your career break and it is nothing to shy away from! Reflect on your career break and how it went for you. Understand the various challenges and learnings you have experienced. Assess your career break objectively and recognize how it relates to your career goals.
2. Research Companies
Before applying for an interior design job, research the companies and the job profile in detail. Understand what niche a particular interior design company excels in and if that aligns with your short-term and long-term career goals.
3. Create a Solid Resume
Your interior design resume is basically who you are on paper. Create a resume that highlights your credentials and strengths. Focus on highlighting your achievements but keep in mind that you will be asked about them in detail.
4. Practice Interviewing
After a career break, it can be difficult to appear in an interview - it is completely normal to feel nervous and not at your best. To avoid such feelings, it is crucial that you practice interviewing with your mentors and peers. Focus on your communication skills and develop them by constant practicing.
5. Reach Out to Your Existing Network
Leveraging your network can help you land a job faster. Your network can refer you to the companies or even recommend you to the clients. When you are on the lookout for an interior design, be sure to make the most of your network!
Conclusion & Next Steps
Entering the workforce after a while of inactivity is not easy. However, it does not have to be an impossible challenge either. There are multiple ways for you to enter interior design and carve a space out for yourself. All you need to do is follow our guide and be ready to put in the work.
At AND Academy, our comprehensive, stackable interior design courses allow everyone to gain industry-relevant skills and knowledge to build a strong foundation for career growth. Whether you are new to the field or looking to brush up on your skills after a break, our courses are designed to help you gain a firm footing in the industry. So, don’t let your doubts hold you back, start your career journey with AND Academy now!
In case you need further assistance, here are some resources to consider:
- Watch this session by Snehanshu Mukherjee, Founding Partner at T.E.A.M and Mansi Almadi, an Interior Designer at Studio Lotus
- Talk to a course advisor to discuss how you can transform your career with one of our courses.
- Check out our Interior Design courses - all courses are taught through live, interactive classes by industry experts.
- Take advantage of our scholarship and funding options to overcome any financial hurdle on the path of your career transformation.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
