Do you want to start your architecture business and or take an existing one to the next level? With over 600,000 architectural firms in the United States, it is no easy feat to remain on top. You need to nurture your relationship with clients, use the rights tools, and come up with a good marketing strategy. Read on for six expert business tips for architects.
1. Set your goals
If you are just starting out, you must find out what you want to do. What type of projects are you interested in? You can choose projects because either they are more profitable or you find them fulfilling. It won’t be easy to find architectural projects, especially when starting out, and you will have to work on projects that you don’t have much interest in. Think of them as your stepping stones. With time, you will improve your reputation and pick projects that interest you.
2. Surround yourself with a reliable team
In any business, you are only as good as the team you work with. Bring together focused and goal-oriented individuals to make a reliable team. If you don’t have professional experience, it’s advisable to find a mentor for advice.
It is also wise to give internships to students and new graduates. Young people are determined to deliver impeccable work, and some of them may develop to become exemplary team members.
3. Talk to industry insiders
The architectural industry is competitive, but people still share knowledge with others. Seize every opportunity to learn about the industry. Reach out to your peers in other architectural firms. They will often offer some valuable advice.
4. Don’t be afraid to stand out
When you stand out from your competitors, it becomes easier for clients to find you. There are several world-class architects here in the United States. This implies that clients will get exceptional designs and services from a shortlist of firms in your area. If your architectural firm does not stand out, you will blend into a sea of obscurity, and you will be forced to charge much less to survive. Find what is unique about your practice and focus on that. Remember, your architectural ideas are your intellectual property. Find an intellectual property & trademark attorney in Houston to help acquire copyrights for your unique designs.
5. Work hard to find clients
You will have to work hard and smart to find clients in a competitive market. First, you will need to gather contacts. This is easy – the longer you are in business, the longer your contacts list will be. However, having a long contact list is not enough. You will have to cultivate them. What’s the relationship with your contacts? Find ways to turn contacts that are not yet customers into customers. Get to know your contacts well and take note of their concerns. This way, it is easier to communicate with them and serve them well.
Also, learn to be persistent. It’s highly unlikely that you will get a deal in the first meeting with your client – no matter how well prepared you are. Be forthcoming and remain positive. Find out how you can adjust your pitch to give more assurance to your prospective client. You may also need to adjust the pitch to be in line with the expectations of the client.
6. Create a good marketing strategy
A good marketing strategy is key for any business that wants to succeed. First, you need to understand your target audience. Promoting your architectural practice is not easy since you will have to appeal a very precise target market. You need to develop an understanding of your clientele. It is the basis on which you will develop your brand and make decisions about every aspect of promotion.
Your understanding of your target audience is the backbone of your marketing efforts. What exactly do you offer, and to whom are you offering it? Do you focus on corporate clientele, or you help affluent individuals design their dream homes? Once you know who you are targeting, put yourself in their shoes, and study your competitors. You won’t lack a thing or two to pick from their marketing strategies. Other marketing tips include:
- Creating a website
- Social media marketing
- Networking offline and online
- Partnering with specialists
- Work on your elevator pitch
- Lead generation
Endnote
The success of architectural practice depends on several factors. You have to set clear goals, work with the right people, use the latest technology and have a good marketing plan.
