Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business 946: Client obsession, activating ALL the senses, and INTENTIONAL business growth w/ Katie Zimmerman
What happens when a passion for fashion evolves into a love for interior design? Join us as Katie Zimmerman, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey from working with iconic brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Fruit of the Loom to launching her own interior design business, Zimmerman Interiors, in 2023. Katie reveals how childhood dreams and career-shaping experiences in the fashion industry have equipped her with the skills and insights to excel in her business venture.
Katie opens up about the identity shifts and battles with imposter syndrome that accompanied her career pivot. Discover how her focus on client obsession, developed during her time at Abercrombie, laid the foundation for creating spaces that resonate deeply with her clients' true desires. Katie's journey reminds us that embracing one's new professional identity and visualizing success are crucial steps in overcoming self-doubt and thriving in a new industry.
Balancing creativity with business acumen is no easy feat, but Katie shares practical advice on managing people-pleasing tendencies while keeping an eye on return on investment. Learn about the evolution of her design showroom, the importance of a clear end vision, and the value of a supportive team and outside perspectives. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to pivot their career and turn their passion into a thriving business.
ABOUT KATIE
Katie Zimmerman spent nearly 20 years in the fashion industry, working for some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Fossil, Fruit of the Loom, and Russell Athletic. With a degree in Fashion Design and Product Development, Katie held leadership roles in design, merchandising, global licensing, and visual merchandising. Recognizing her strengths in process, client experiences, and project management, she transitioned to interior design, where she now leverages her expertise in global sourcing and fashion to create stunning, personalized spaces for her clients.
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