The relationship between architects and clients is quite a unique one, as people entrust their expectations of how their next house will look to the creative minds of architects. In the majority of cases, clients know the products before they buy them, but that doesn’t happen in architecture firms. This is why the relationship between clients and architects needs to be close to ensure that there is good communication that will make a project turn successful. Architects usually spend a lot of time brushing up their skills and mastering the art of executing projects in the best possible ways. However, they often ignore one of the most essential aspects: the relationship with clients.
Clients are the best asset of a company; without them, firms could no longer operate. So, in order to have a successful business, the relationships between clients and architects should improve. And luckily, there are numerous ways in which this can be made. Here are a few of them.
Enhance communication
Communication is essential in any client-professional relationship. And, now, thanks to the plenty of possibilities that technology has brought, it is easier than ever to stay in touch with clients as the project evolves. That doesn’t mean you should offer updates to your client each minute, but you need to do so when vital decisions must be discussed or after the major milestones are reached. In this way, the clients will feel special, and will trust you more, as they know they will be aware of any problem or change that can appear. Never leave your clients in the dark, as this can complicate your life later because you might need to address some things to match the needs and preferences of customers. Otherwise, if there is good communication, the project will work smoother, and the relationship will strengthen.
Improve customer experience
Long are the days when architects needed to use paper and pen to show how the project desired by the client would look. But now, architects can use 3D visualization to make the customers see exactly what the project will be in reality. Plus, 3D visualization will establish a good and productive architect-client relationship. Why does this happen? Well, 3D visualization brings a lot of clarity in this process, as the customers might not know exactly all the terms used by architects. But if they see the things that are explained to them, they will understand a lot better. Furthermore, a 3D visualization shows the vision of the architects and strengthens the relationship between the two parties, as the customer will have a clear image.
Building something from scratch will take some time, so architects can also offer physical drawings and sketches to provide something palpable to customers. In this way, they will have a little piece to remind them of the beautiful change that is going to happen. For example, if you are a landscape architect who is designing a garden for a house, it will be a good idea to offer your customer a drawing with the final project. You just need to pack it nicely and add a floral ribbon, and your customer will surely appreciate the gesture, which might strengthen the relationship between you two.
Be transparent with the payment
Honesty and transparency are very important in strengthening the relationship between clients and architects. This element is even more critical when money is in question. Otherwise, if the two parties are dishonest, this scenario can lead to a disaster. So, architects and architectural firms need to be upfront about the payment process while also understanding the clients’ time frame and budget.
This can be done by showing the final project to the clients as soon as possible. This way, they will know exactly what to expect and can determine whether the project is feasible or not.
Make a good impression online
As we live in a digital world, it is imperative to have a strong online presence. Additionally, most clients try your products and services after seeing your work online, and this can also apply to architectural firms. So, it is imperative to have a great website where you showcase your products and also optimize your businesses in the Google listing. The Internet can be the first place where clients get in touch with your business, so it is vital to offer the right address, URL, and phone number.
Online presence also implies having an active account on social media. Very rare and old posts can scare clients, but regular content will make them see that a business is relevant. Additionally, this will also provide greater visibility.
Consider feedback
Good communication with clients will offer valuable insights that you should take into account. In some cases, clients might feel that they don’t know where the project is going, which will leave them frustrated and disappointed. Furthermore, they might have the impression that they don’t have a say in this process, although their money is at stake. This is why it is crucial to keep the client updated with the developments of the project, as this will offer the possibility to adjust the trajectory if changes appear and ensure that both of you are on the same page.
Stay updated with the latest architecture and design trends
If you want to be the best option for your clients, you need to ensure you show you are the best in your industry. And how can you do that if not by knowing all the trends and information about the sector you are working in? A good architect will always keep up with the latest materials, costs, prices and trends to ensure they offer the best experience to clients. The more details you know about the architecture world, the more your clients will appreciate you and choose your services over those of the competitors.
Concluding thoughts
In such a dynamic landscape where new businesses appear every day, it is imperative to offer the best experience for clients. But that should come along with improving the relationship between customers and architects, which will be the one that will make projects really successful.