Yes it helps alot. Thank you so much! I have been trying to research which course to enroll in myself because the training seems so valuable, but then I noticed that each training course had their "own" certification so I became confused as to what the standard was if any for certification for stagers. So then I started wondering is one certification more "reputable", or "better" or "have more meaning" than others?
Its all very confusing for us newbies! But thanks so much for your input! I enjoyed your website!
Teri,
This has become somewhat of an argumentum ad nauseaum here on the Rain. I shall not commit to the labors of Sisyphus to rehash everything that has been said here. You will find a wide variety of opinions. For myself, although I am "certified" by one of the training groups, I value what they gave me in the way of a business package more than any additional spagetti to put behind my name. Do your research and then call some people on the Rain, I am sure you will find some folks who will be happy to share with you their experience with the training and certification or lack thereof. Lately, several people are actually dropping their certification (see the group Staging in the Nude ).
I also suggest you check out RESA-the founder is on the Rain http://activerain.com/shellbrodnax
We actually found a book that was helpful when we were ready to incorporate: Building a Successsful Home Staging Business by Barb Schwarz. I am not endorsing her and have not taken her certification course but she really is good at the business part. We use some of her suggestions.
I would suggest you do some research on the Rain and talk to others before you decide. As far as your Google and yahoo rating, they do not look at your credentials so leave them off your blog title (per an excellent A/R member who helped me).
That is such a good point. Well let me ask you all this.....are there professional organizations that would be beneficial to be associated with if one does not go with a particular certification course? I have been reviewing the RESA sight this evening. Wow, they seem to have a wealth of good information! I would love some ideas on pricing structures too. I understand the flat consultation fees, that's obvious. But how do some of you charge for your staging? Per room, per a percentage of the asking price? But you are so right. IF it was just all about the staging, that would be so easy, well easier anyway.......its setting UP this business! I am headed out tomorrow to get Barb Swartz book for the business side and see if that helps some more. Thanks........you have all been great! What a wonderful supportive group of people especially for us newbies!!!
I wouldn't say most of them are bogus, since a lot of stagers here in AR have some sort of certifications. I invested good money on education, frankly I don't see them as bogus. I did learn things from my staging education. But that's beside the point and everyone is different.
But truly, consumers don't really care how many letters are behind your name. They care about results. Instead of arguing about certification, show them your results! It's like those life-long debates about if chefs should have official training... There are lots of famous chefs are classically trained and there are many who are self taught. Bottom line is talent.
Cheers,
Cindy
Comments(16)