FAQ – Making a difference

When we do things with a clear purpose, we’ll not only do them better, but we’ll also get a lot more satisfaction from doing them. And the more that purpose aligns with making a difference to people’s lives, including our own, the better. But how can we really make a difference in our work, and in our lives? 

What we do and how we do it can make a real difference to people. On the face of it our job is simple – to make good-looking and durable surfaces. So how does that really make a difference in people’s lives?

We are employed because someone either cannot or doesn’t want to do a painting and decorating task. That applies whether it’s a domestic, commercial or industrial job.

Many homeowners will DIY their decorating, and some commercial and industrial outfits will have property teams who do similar. We’re brought in when there isn’t the capacity for the client to do it themselves, whether that’s skills-based or time-based or can’t-be-arsed-based. 

That means we’re taking the hassle out of people’s lives. As I’ve written before, what’s tied up in that is getting the basics right: communicating well, being on time, being well-prepared with the right kit and consumables, and a friendly, kind and professional attitude. 

Giving opportunities

When I was a decorator, and even more so now I’m a photographer and videographer, I’ve given work experience opportunities to young people. It’s such a brilliant way for youngsters to find out whether the job is right for them.

There are so many different opportunities for young people these days, that anything that helps them to make informed choices can only be a good thing.

In a digital age it’s not just a case of being a jobbing decorator either, it’s about being good at business, good at marketing, possibly creating a social media or YouTube channel to diversify income and opportunities beyond the physical decorating work. 

Passing on skills

That brings me to the difference we can make by passing on our skills to others. Whether it’s taking on a trainee or apprentice, or writing blogs, or educating others online. Many decorators work on their own, so passing on those skills really is a great way to make a difference to others. It can take a bit of confidence to put your head above the parapet and show the world what you do, but the rewards for yourself and others can be really worth it. 

Charity work

Like Liam Neeson, we all have a very particular set of skills, and those skills can be really useful to those in need. It could be a local scout hut, a community centre, someone in particular need. And how many of us have taken part in DIY SOS and seen the difference it’s made to people’s lives, as well as inspiring millions of viewers?

We can also give regular donations to our favourite charities straight from our business. It’s good to know that we’re giving back, and it can be good marketing too.

Support great suppliers

Whether you use local or online suppliers, where you spend your money on materials and kit can make a big difference to those suppliers. It creates jobs with companies who offer great products and great service. Support those who are supportive and they’ll likely support you back. 

Support other decorators

Speaking of being supportive, one of the biggest impacts on my life as a decorator was the support of other decorators. Whether it was local decorators with whom I might collaborate on jobs, or those whom I mainly chatted with online and perhaps only met annually at the Painting and Decorating Show.

It can be tough as a decorator, especially if you own your own business. Having the advice and support of other decorators can make a huge difference to mental health as well as business success, and that back up is even more important when things go wrong.

Environmental impact

There are two main ways we can lower our environmental impact. Firstly, by reducing the materials and energy we use and by choosing products with a lower environmental impact, we are reducing the load on the environment of the actual decorating. This even applies to travelling in energy efficient ways to and from jobs and being organised so we’re making fewer trips to merchants.

As part of our job is to protect surfaces, if our work is long-lasting, we’re increasing the decorating cycle and therefore reducing the number of times a property needs decorating – saving clients’ money and saving on the environmental impact of redecorating more frequently. 

Conclusion

Making a difference as a decorator, or as a supplier, or whatever you do is about being thoughtful about people and planet. We all have the power to influence others, support others, show a side of professionalism which impresses and delights customers. Every single one of us can make a difference.