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52 52 Business For those interested in pursuing a career in fl oristry, formal education and training can be crucial for building a successful career and/or business, including valuable insights into the business side of the industry, including marketing (critically important!); sourcing and pricing for profi t; customer engagement and experience; and all aspects of management, from fi nancial to employee—to name just a few areas. Earning accreditations and certifi cations is also an incredible way for one to grow as a designer and really challenge oneself. It also provides one access to a community of other fl orists and professionals in the industry with which to network, share, learn and create lifelong relationships—which, in turn, exposes myriad opportunities including potential jobs, business opportunities and so much more. Becoming a member of organizations and associations that support the professional fl ower industry and encourage lifelong learning can be a crucial step to creating and maintaining a sustainable fl oral business. Becoming accredited or certifi ed can also provide immense personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment, and it tells clients and employers that one has undergone formal training and met specifi c standards, which can instill confi dence in that person's abilities. Accredited and certifi ed fl orists are more likely to stay up-to-date with industry trends and innovations in products and techniques, making them more knowledgeable, credible and valuable to clients—and able to command higher prices and fees for their products and services! Customers can be more assured that they will receive the highest quality, craftsmanship and creativity in the products they receive as well as the most skilled and professional services available. NOTE: It is important for one to promote his or her accreditations and certifi cations and to educate one's customers about them so that they understand what the achievement means to them. Moreover, education resulting in accreditation and certifi cation can prepare one for a range of careers in the fl oral industry and lead to specialized opportunities, including invitations to participate in industry shows, seminars, demonstrations and workshops; fl oral design competitions; teaching positions—and so much more. e world can become one's oyster. For those interested in pursuing a career in floristry, FORMAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING CAN BE CRUCIAL FOR BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER AND/OR BUSINESS.

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