How Do I Find Architecture Clients?

Certain builders are active even in today's tough economy.

While the building industry has quieted because of the global economic crisis, some niche markets are active. Instead of merely searching for clients seeking an architect, adjust your strategy to enable the right clients to find you. And then give them reasons why they should request your architectural services.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Photos of your work

Instructions

Maximize the Power of the Internet

1. 

   Help clients find you.

   Create an active website. If someone in your vicinity wanted to build a unique house and searched on the Internet for a local architect, does your website appear on the results list? Search engine optimization should be considered to stand out in your profession. If you don't have one, hire someone to build a website for you.

2. Keep abreast of important trends. While the middle class has been decreasing, the number of millionaire households in the world actually rose by 14 percent in 2009, according to a study by Daily Finance. It makes sense to market to this upper-tier spending group. Another key trend is the concept of "green design," the use of environmentally friendly materials and designs. ProudGreenHome.com reports that more than 50 percent of home buyers consider green design features as important. Be aware of key technical and design trends.

3. Write articles for more exposure.For your website to become more visible in search results, write timely architectural-themed articles. You can back-link your comments on other blogs to help boost traffic and search ratings. You can also hire a free-lance writer.

4. 

   Photograph and post unique details.

   Highlight your unique design features. Develop a signature style in your architecture. Show off photographs of these features on Flickr or Picasa, for example, with connecting links to your website.

Become Engaged in Your Community

1. 

   Become a volunteer designer. Help people and gain exposure. Architects frequently help serve as chairpersons on town beautification committees; join together with builders to create houses for homeless families; and plan green design housing prototypes with other volunteers. The online Open Architect Network lists many volunteer opportunities worldwide, and you may list your own projects.

2. Try humanitarian involvement, not just design work, which offers even more exposure. Many architects highlight volunteer humanitarian work in their online biographies, including giving free classes and motivational seminars.

3. Develop word-of-mouth contacts in your vicinity. In making new friends, it may be that some become clients.

Tips & Warnings

• It can be discouraging to have a shortage of clients. It helps to be linked with a positive support base. Consider developing closer ties with encouraging friends and professionals you know.

References

• Daily Finance: Where the World's Millionaires Live: The Top Ten Countries
• Proud Green Home: More Buyers Seeking Green Homes
• The Open Architecture Network

Resources

• World Architecture News