Top 10 ways promote your architectural firm
So, you took the big step that every architect dreams of and founded your very own firm? Congratulations! If you had it in you to make this move, then you definitely have what it takes to survive in this cut-throat, competitive line of business. Here are the top ten ways to get the buzz out and acquire clients effectively.
1. Google ads
There is nothing more potent than hooking up with the world’s most powerful search engine. With Google, you will place yourself at the fingertips of people who actively search for your services.
2. Facebook ads
Like Google, Facebook has all the necessary resources to provide you with excellently targeted promotion. Unlike Google, it will cover the passive market segment and let you get clients who might not be actively looking for architectural services at the moment but whose profile matches your customer target.
3. Forum engagement
Get acquainted with the popular UK forums which contain dedicated architectural section and active threads. Engage in productive discussions, provide forum participants with good information and tips, and mention your firm. Focus on post quality and do not hit the promo message too hard.
4. Content marketing
Customers love getting free stuff, and content marketing is a great way to provide them with value and build quality relationships with them. Start an architectural blog, podcast, or vlog and cover topics which excite you as an architect and which would be of interest to your target clientele. Do not be afraid to play with formats and mix it up!
5. Write white papers
A special kind of content marketing, white papers are thorough reports written by an expert (that means you!) which help readers gain deep understanding of a specific issue or make an informed decision. This is a great way to demonstrate expertise in your strong suites, provide useful information to potential customers, and pave the way to winning their trust and their business.
6. Business cards
Not everything happens online, you know. Work closely with a printer to develop a memorable and unique business card design which embodies the philosophy and mission of your firm. Transfer the colour scheme and fonts to your official letterhead as well to build a consistent brand.
7. Professional organisations
Mix and mingle at meetings of organisations and societies where potential customers are. Anything from your local Chamber of Commerce to Rotaract and the Lions Club is fair game. Get involved in a couple of those societies, strike up conversations, listen intently, and always have a business card ready to hand out.
8. Speaker circuit
Volunteer your services as a speaker to get exposure for your expertise as well as your firm. Again, your networking within professional circles, local organisations, and the public sector should grant you many such opportunities. You will benefit from the exposure and name recognition – customers will remember your business much better if they encounter it “face to face”.
9. Dress your car to impress
If you drive around town a lot, it will pay off to have your firm’s details professionally printed on its sides. Proudly displaying your business like that also reflects your confidence and integrity – your potential clients will appreciate that!
10 . Free consultations
As we said before, customers like freebies. Apart from providing useful information in writing, you can also offer free consultations and site visits. It is a great way to form a personal connection with potential clients, make useful recommendations, and then offer to start an order for their implementation.