Promoting your architecture firm is an important way to find new clients and grow your business. However, many architects are unsure where to start. You are a busy professional with a lot on your plate. It’s understandable if you’re not a marketing whiz or keep pushing promotional plans to the back burner.
But without taking some steps to promote your business, it may not be around for long. Architects need to think strategically and engage in promotional and marketing activities that fit their unique industry and clients.
While you will likely need a full marketing plan to make the most of your efforts, there are ways to start promoting your architecture business in the meantime. You may be able to implement some of the tips below now or include them in your official marketing plan.
Here are seven different ways to effectively promote an architecture business.
1. Find your niche
Even the best architect can’t be an expert in everything. Claiming that you are might seem like a great way to broaden your client base, but it can backfire if they doubt your expertise. Instead, consider focusing on just one or two areas. Whether it is luxury homes or commercial buildings or something else, marketing can help clients know that you are an expert in that field.
2. Create an online portfolio
A website is more than just a way for clients to find your contact details. It is also the place to showcase your work as an architect and establish a brand. High-quality images and well-written copy can help tell a story to attract new clients to your business. There are many DIY website building apps and tools available, or consider hiring a web designer to manage your site for you.
3. Use social media
Used properly, social media profiles can be a great digital marketing tool for architects. Posting regularly can help you attract and retain followers, as well as reach new clients. Rather than trying to juggle every platform all at once, your may want to focus on just two or three (but use them well). For example, LinkedIn can help you establish a professional industry presence, while Pinterest is perfect for posting aspirational images.
4. Embrace new technology
Adopting new technologies can help market your architecture firm as forward-thinking and help you stand out from the competition. Instead of relying on photos or models, consider other ways to showcase your designs. This might include videos, 360 views, or 3D floor plans on your website. When meeting with a client, using virtual reality to walk them though a concept could really set your firm apart!
5. Get published
Architects can help build their professional reputation by getting published. If you’re looking to reach other architects, then whitepapers and industry magazines may be the best ways to do this. For reaching new clients, magazines or publications matching their industry or interests may be a better fit. You could also consider becoming an industry expert for journalists and newspapers, by offering a professional perspective in relevant news stories.
6. Book public speaking engagements
Maintaining a professional presence online and in print is important, but so is establishing yourself in person. Public speaking engagements are an opportunity to sell your architectural services to a captive audience from a position of authority. Delivering a clear and practiced message could bring more clients and opportunities to your firm.
7. Share client testimonials
Happy clients may be one of your best assets. People often look for customer reviews or client testimonials before deciding to use a business’ services. If you have satisfied clients, ask if they would be willing to leave you an online review or be featured on your website. Depending on your budget, you could create a video of their comments alongside the work you completed for them.
Protecting your architecture business
Promoting your architecture firm is important, and so is protecting it. You may be careful in your work, but mistakes can still happen and cause financial losses for a client. If they in turn decide to sue you, the resulting lawsuit could be potentially devastating.
Professional Liability for architects is one insurance product you might consider to safeguard your growing business.
A Professional Liability insurance policy (also known as Errors and Omissions or E&O insurance) is an essential policy that protects you and your company in case of a lawsuit due to alleged professional wrongdoing. It will cover your legal costs resulting from a claim, including settlements and judgements, that would otherwise be paid out-of-pocket by you or your architecture firm.
If you’re ready to find Professional Liability for architects, BizInsure can help. We make the process of comparing policies simple and quick. You could be covered in just 10 minutes!
Discover Professional Liability for architects today.
