That's Business by Design's perspective this month on a new income report.

THIS MONTH:
+ Sorry Stats
+ Quitting Time
+ Money Maneuvers

Sorry Stats
The average income for U.S. interior designers with at least eight years experience is only $66,300. For those with 4-6 years experience, it's $46,376. For those less experienced: $34,795.

My source for those numbers: a report released by Salary.com.

My word for those numbers: "disappointing."

Disappointing because design professionals work way too hard to earn that little.

Disappointing because they know so much about so much -- from classic to contemporary -- and don't get adequately compensated for it.

Disappointing because they're three times as skilled as professionals in other fields who earn six times more money.

Quitting Time
The income numbers should give you a clear message: it's time to quit.

Quit giving away your time and expertise. And negotiating your fees. And working with clients who can't afford you.

Quit wasting your time on non-income producing activities. And taking on projects that are more trouble than their worth.

Quit thinking small.

Money Maneuvers
Your personal financial situation shouldn't get you down.

It should get you going.

It should motivate you to take steps to earn the income you want and deserve.

Here are some of the steps I shared this week in my teleseminar on how to "Double Your Dollars as a Design Professional:"

Double Your Fees. You improve clients' work space and living space and lives. Now, charge accordingly.

Justify Why. Memorize 12 reasons why you're worth your higher rate. It's Price Objection Protection.

Walk the Talk. Conduct yourself -- and your business -- as if you already earn twice your price.

Differentiate yourself. Talk up your experience, awards, design specialties and, above all, your "only."

Look the Part. Make your bio sheet, design service list and other marketing materials look like a million.

Sell Yourself. Write, speak, network -- do whatever it takes to get known by high end prospects.

Spread the Word. Send a rate hike letter to clients new and old.