So, you’ve finally taken the leap and opened your own design business. You’ve set up your brand, and you’re ready to start making waves. Then, out of nowhere, a past client from your previous firm gets in touch. They want to hire you for a new project, but you didn’t solicit them—they reached out. Now, you’re wondering: Should I let my former employer know?
Clients Follow Designers, Not Firms
The reality is simple: clients don’t belong to anyone. Design firms might like to believe they own their client relationships, but in truth, clients are loyal to the person who understands their vision—you. They trust your taste, your process, and your execution. When a client reaches out to you years later, it’s because they value you, not the firm’s name.
If this client tracked you down after three years, it’s because they remembered the work you did. They aren’t tied to your old firm; they’re tied to the experience and trust you built with them. That’s your merit, and it’s why there’s no obligation to inform your previous employer about their outreach.
Does Time Matter? The Three-Year Gap
The fact that it’s been three years since you left your former firm makes a difference. In most professional situations, three years is plenty of time for any formal or informal obligations to expire. Unless you have an active noncompete agreement (we’ll touch on that shortly), the passage of time means your relationship with this client is solely between the two of you now.
You may have left on good terms with your former employer, but that doesn’t mean you need to open this door again. Focus on the fact that your former employer has moved on, just like you have. After three years, there’s no need to involve them in a new project that’s come your way.
Noncompete Agreements: Are They Still Enforceable?
Noncompete agreements can complicate things if you signed one when you left your old firm. However, most noncompete clauses are only enforceable for a limited time—typically one to two years. So, after three years, you’re likely in the clear to take on this new project without any legal concerns.
Additionally, as of late, the FTC has been taking a stand against noncompete agreements, especially in creative industries like interior design. If you’re unsure about your noncompete clause, it’s worth reviewing, but the odds are that it’s no longer enforceable.
Protecting Client Trust: Why Transparency Isn’t Always Necessary
You might think that informing your former employer is the right thing to do, especially if you value transparency in your business relationships. But in this case, oversharing could backfire. When a client seeks you out, they’re entrusting you with their project—not your former firm. If they wanted to return to your old employer, they would have done so.
Bringing your old boss into the loop could make the client feel uneasy, potentially damaging the trust they’ve placed in you. Your job is to maintain that trust and ensure a smooth, professional relationship. There’s no need to involve anyone else in the situation.
Focus on Building Your Future, Not Revisiting the Past
This is your time to shine. Your business is in growth mode, and every project you take on is an opportunity to build your reputation and client base. The client reached out to you for a reason—they trust your abilities and your vision. Don’t let concerns about your former employer hold you back from moving forward with this new opportunity.
There’s a fine balance between respecting your professional past and focusing on your future. In this case, the future is what matters. The client wants to work with you, and that’s something you’ve earned through your skills and dedication.
Insights from the Interior Design Community
Here’s what some of the experts in the Interior Design Community had to say about this situation:
- @wanderluxe_interiors: “Designers. Do. Not. Own. Clients. 🙌”
Clients can work with whoever they choose. No firm has ownership over client relationships, and the client’s decision to return to you reflects your value as a designer. - @studioconnolly: “No design firm ‘owns’ a client, especially 3 years later. If your client found out you told the former employer, it could make them uncomfortable.”
Transparency isn’t always a good thing, especially if it risks undermining the trust your client has in you. - @curatedbychrissy: “If a client hunted you down for services, it means you left a powerful impact. You deserve the business.”
Your impact as a designer is what keeps clients coming back. This client reached out to you for a reason, and that’s something you should embrace.
Keep Moving Forward
The client chose you for their new project, which speaks volumes about your skills and the relationship you’ve built. There’s no need to complicate things by informing your former employer, especially after so much time has passed. Instead, focus on delivering excellent work, maintaining the trust of your client, and growing your business.
The interior design industry thrives on relationships, and you’ve clearly built one strong enough to stand the test of time. Honor that, and keep moving forward with confidence. This is your opportunity—embrace it and keep building toward your future.