Developing systems and learning how to manage workflow takes time—not to mention experience. Get your highlighter ready as some of the industry’s best share the skills they wished they’d learned as students and what they’d change if given a do-over on launching their own firms.

Real Talent

“Starting out, I would interview people, skim their portfolios and think, ‘She’s so nice! She’d be fun to have around.’ I was not focused on the skills I needed. Once they were on board, I’d realize it wasn’t exactly a good fit. I needed someone who was great at picking fabrics, and instead I hired someone because she had a lovely smile. Now I ask myself, ‘Can they do the job? Will they do what I need them to do? Are they like-minded in where I want my business to go?’ You want to hire people who not only enhance what you’re doing, but help you get better and grow, too.” —Brigette Romanek, Romanek Design Studio