The Art of Recruiting: Assessing A Designer’s Skillset
In the world of interior design and architecture, the role of designer is paramount. Interior designers are responsible for creating spaces that are aesthetically pleasing yet functional. As individuals and businesses increasingly recognize the value of beautiful interior design, the demand for talented and skilled designers has grown exponentially. This in turn leads to firms seeking talented and experienced designers of all levels to their teams. Yet, the real challenge for studio principals and headhunters lies not in the search, but in discerning the truly exceptional designers from the broad spectrum of candidates. The question then is, how does one go about this critical task?
Reviewing resumes, and portfolios to determine whether a designer has the specific skill set and experience needed for your team may come easily as the Principal. If you are handing this task off to a team member or recruiting partner it is essential that you coach them on your firm’s typical style approach and the skill set expected to successfully execute on projects with your team. Below is a good checklist to share with anyone reviewing candidates on your behalf and also for your own mental checklist when needed:
Spatial planning
Material knowledge
Lighting design
Architectural detailing
Understanding of ergonomics
Appreciating user behavior
Ability to create a balance between functionality and aesthetics
Eye for detail
Other skills/experience that pertain to your particular studio - Ex. Millwork, Cabinetry
Clearly Define Job Requirements and Project Scope
Establish clear job functions and define the scope of project work they will undertake when working with you. The first step is to decide which areas you want or need to offload. These tasks are usually the ones you don’t enjoy, aren’t necessarily good at or simply don’t have the bandwidth to tackle. If your business works on a mix of interior design projects such as residential, commercial, retail and hospitality will you expect the designer to work across all these project types or focus on one area? It’s important to define what works best for the client, the business, and the overall success of each project so that you are setting the candidate up for success and in turn the whole team. Drilling down on these specifics helps to ensure that you are hiring the right fit regarding skills and experience.
Unraveling Individual Contributions
In the design world, particularly with larger projects, design work is frequently a collaborative effort. This makes it challenging to ascertain the exact contributions and abilities of a single designer, concealing their distinct skills in the vibrant tapestry of collective creativity.
One of the most effective questions a recruiter can pose to potential designers is regarding their individual contributions in the projects showcased in their portfolio. By asking candidates, "What have you single handedly contributed to in the drafting that you have in your portfolio?" recruiters encourage designers to elaborate on their unique input.
This inquiry prompts designers to highlight their creativity, problem-solving, attention to detail, technical abilities and the ability to adapt their design approach to different client preferences and project requirements. The contribution question also gives a glimpse into their collaboration skills and the role they typically assume in a team setting. For instance, a designer who led an innovative solution to an architectural challenge reveals leadership, initiative, and technical prowess.
Scrutinizing Client Interactions
The cornerstone of a successful interior designer's skill set, beyond their artistic and technical abilities, is their knack for effective and meaningful client interaction. This facet of a designer's role cannot be overstated - it is through these interactions that clients' visions are understood, expectations managed, and satisfaction achieved.
How a designer interacts with clients speaks volumes about their communication skills, professionalism, empathy, and client management capabilities. These are all vital aspects to consider when recruiting designers. Asking the candidate to describe their client interactions, the nature and frequency of their involvement, and instances of going above and beyond can be enlightening.
Additional probing questions can further reveal the nuances of a designer's client interaction skills:
Can you describe a project where your original concept did not align with the client's vision? How did you reconcile these differences while still delivering a successful design?
Can you describe a situation where you had a creative disagreement with a client or a member of your team? How did you navigate this, and what was the outcome?
Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a client. What was the challenge, and what steps did you take to exceed the client's expectations?
What's your approach when a project doesn't go according to plan? Could you give an example of how you adapted to changes or unforeseen obstacles in a past project?
These 'Designer Dialogues' will give you more in-depth insights into a designer's ability to navigate client relationships, manage expectations, and go the extra mile for project success. They will help paint a more comprehensive picture of the candidate, aiding your decision-making process.
Other Key Factors To Consider
Once you have determined the full scope of the position needed for your team there are a few other areas to be considered before committing to a new hire.
Technical Proficiency and Software Skills
It goes without saying interior designers must be proficient in various design software and tools. A quick review of a potential new hire’s technical skills will save time and frustration when they start on their first project with your firm. If the candidate is weak in one area, request that they familiarize themselves before starting the job. A strong command of the tools your team uses ensures accuracy in communication with clients, contractors, and suppliers, streamlining the design process and project success.
Understanding Sourcing Experience
The process of sourcing - selecting and procuring the materials and products needed for a design project - is a vital part of interior design. Experience in sourcing confirms a designer's industry knowledge, negotiation skills, and keen attention to detail. For example, a designer who recounts sourcing a bespoke piece from overseas to meet a project's specific aesthetic demands demonstrates resourcefulness, dedication, and a global perspective. Furthermore, how a designer manages sourcing can be the determining factor of a project's success or failure, and the cost-effectiveness of the endeavor.
Creative Problem-Solving and Innovation
Interior design projects often present unique challenges that require creative problem-solving and innovative solutions. An easy way to determine candidates’ ability to think critically and creatively is to ask them a couple quick questions such as:
Tell me about a time when you had to work with a tight budget. How did you ensure high design quality while remaining within budget constraints?
Could you share an instance where you had to incorporate a client's existing pieces into your design? How did you create a cohesive design aesthetic?
The manner in which they respond to either of these questions will speak volumes about their problem-solving skills.
Mastering Talent Acquisition in Interior Design
Unearthing the right talent in the realm of interior design requires a keen eye, intuitive questioning, and a deep understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of the design profession. While this process is an art, the right questions and careful scrutiny, helps to identify the designers who will truly enrich your team.
Use a holistic approach to evaluate skills, creativity, technical proficiency, and ability to collaborate effectively. By defining clear job requirements, evaluating portfolios, assessing technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities, and considering communication skills and cultural fit, employers can identify top talent that will elevate their interior design projects to new heights. A successful interior designer not only enhances spaces but also enriches the lives of those who inhabit them.
19th&CO work with interior designer and architecture firms of all sizes to help with recruiting, establish team culture and implement human resource processes that support team culture.
