When Corey Damen Jenkins decided to pursue interior design in the midst of the Great Recession, he didn’t have a portfolio, a studio, or even a single paying client. What he did have was determination—and a willingness to knock on doors, literally, until someone opened one for him.
The Door‑Knocking Hustle
Jenkins set out on a simple mission: introduce himself to homeowners and small‑business owners in his neighborhood, explain what he could do, and ask for a chance to prove it. Armed with a handful of sketches and a notebook, he hit the streets, tracking each attempt. After 779 knocks, he finally landed his first project—a modest living‑room refresh for a skeptical but curious client who appreciated his persistence.
Why 779 Doors?
The number wasn’t arbitrary; it reflected the reality of breaking into a competitive field during an economic downturn. Many designers relied on referrals or online ads, but those channels were either inaccessible or too costly for someone just starting out. By going door‑to‑door, Jenkins bypassed the gatekeepers and put his face—and his passion—directly in front of the people who needed his services.
“If you’re willing to show up, even when no one’s watching, the opportunities will find you.”
Lessons for Aspiring Designers
Jenkins’ story offers a few practical takeaways for anyone trying to launch a creative career:
- Start where you are: Use the skills and resources you already have, even if they feel modest.
- Embrace grassroots outreach: Personal, face‑to‑face contact can cut through digital noise.
- Track your effort: Logging each attempt not only measures progress but also builds momentum.
- Stay resilient: Rejection is part of the process; each “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”
Today, Corey Damen Jenkins runs a successful design studio, but he still credits those early mornings on the sidewalk for teaching him the value of persistence—and the power of simply showing up.
