Looking for new business? Designers who participate in the IMS Design Connection and Portfolio Wings programs find them effective ways to partner with IMS in the marketing of their business and to meet prospective clients.

Developed as a partnership between International Market Square and local designers, the Design Connection and Portfolio Wings programs have four goals: to create new business opportunities for designers; introduce the public to IMS resources through designers; facilitate showroom sales to consumers not already working with a designer; and educate the public regarding the benefits of working with a designer.

HOW THE REFERRAL PROGRAMS WORK
PORTFOLIO WINGS PROGRAM

- Showcase your work. Reach potential clients through the IMS portfolio "wings" display. Located across from the AIA and ASID offices on the first floor, it exhibits samples of your work to virtually everyone entering IMS through the main lobby.

- To participate. For complete details, including program fees, lease terms and specifications, download a Portfolio Program Summary and Application or call 612-338- 6250.

THE DESIGN CONNECTION

- Pre-scheduled one-hour appointments. Consumers often call IMS wanting to learn about its resources and how to meet a designer. The Design Connection Coordinator refers these calls to the designer who is "on duty" that day. The initial meeting between the designer and potential client is held at IMS; thereafter, it is up to the designer to schedule future meetings, negotiate fees and establish a working relationship.

- Walk-in appointments. Participating designers commit to being available 10:00am - 4:00pm on a pre-arranged day at least once per month. They work from the Design Connection desk in the front lobby, handling on-site consumer inquiries and off-the-floor purchases of showroom products.

- To participate. Designers must have five to 10 years working experience in interior design, and preferably, an undergraduate degree in interior design. To receive an application, call the IMS Design Connection Coordinator at 612-338-6250.

REFERRAL PROGRAM SUCCESS STORIES

"For the past six years I've volunteered one day every other month with the Design Connection. It gives me more exposure to the public and an opportunity to offer one-stop shopping to people who don't have a designer. It's helped grow my business and was the beginning of a large project with the American Academy of Neurology in St. Paul. As a bonus, I get to see what's new in the IMS showrooms while I'm on call."
Michele Eich, Allied Member ASID, IFDA
Eich Interior Design