132. Design Disasters: Responding to Negative Reviews with Michelle Lynne

Hey there, Design for the Creative Mind family! It's your host, Michelle Lynne, back with another episode that's sure to resonate with many of you. Today, we're diving into a topic that can be a thorn in the side of any business owner: negative reviews. But don't worry, I'm here to share some personal stories and strategies on how to handle them with grace and maintain your integrity.   In this episode, I recount a recent encounter with a negative review from a client I worked with nearly a decade ago. Yes, you heard that right—10 years ago! This client, let's call her Karen (because, well, that's her name), decided to take to the Nextdoor app to share her dissatisfaction. Despite the fact that we had resolved the issue privately all those years ago, Karen felt the need to warn others about my business.   I know how it feels to see your business's name dragged through the mud, especially when you've poured your heart and soul into it. But here's the thing—I want to show you how to respond to these situations without fear and without compromising your values. It's all about taking the high road, addressing the issue head-on, and offering to continue the conversation privately if necessary.   I also touch on the importance of having solid processes in place to avoid these kinds of client issues in the first place. That's something I teach in my Interior Design Business Bakery program, which is designed to help you run your business smoothly and avoid the sticky situations that can lead to negative reviews.   So, if you've ever faced a less-than-stellar review or you're worried about getting one in the future, this episode is for you. I'll walk you through how to handle it with your head held high and your business reputation intact. And remember, it's not about living in fear—it's about being prepared and knowing how to navigate the choppy waters of client relations with confidence.   Don't forget to check out the Interior Design Business Bakery for more tips on running a successful and organized design business. And if you've enjoyed this episode, I'd be over the moon if you could leave a positive review wherever you tune in to your podcasts. Let's keep elevating our industry together!   Until next time, live abundantly and be your amazing self. Love y'all!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production