Growthitect

Tyler Suomala
  • 5.0 (3)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Growthitect

Actionable growth hacks to help architects improve their sales, marketing, and social media skills.

  1. 12/26/2024

    Million Dollar Pricing Strategies (with Alexander Buckeridge of Studio Bucky)

    #20: Alexander Buckeridge of Studio Bucky joins us again to share exciting updates on his firm's global success and discuss his pricing strategies for a major upcoming project. We'll dive deep into how he plans to navigate the complexities of a high-end residential design. → How did Alexander secure a big residential project from a former retail client? → What are Alexander’s strategies for defining clear deliverables and revision terms in a long-term project?  → How does he plan to structure his pricing packages to fit different client needs?  → Why is ‘padding’ important in fixed-fee projects, especially for long-term engagements?  → What are the key considerations Alexander takes into account when negotiating project fees?  → How has Alexander's experience with smaller projects influenced his approach to a $5-7 million project? → What steps is Alexander taking to ensure his business can grow sustainably while managing this large project?  → How does the "profit first" system and setting up an S-Corp play into Alexander’s business strategy?  → What role do content creation and structured planning play in the growth of Studio Bucky? (04:13) High-end interior design for luxury apartments. (08:52) Planning construction costs and phasing next year. (11:28) Clarify understanding before asking for commitment. (13:57) Offer a fixed fee with added services for clients. (17:43) Less frequent updates vs. frequent virtual walkthroughs. (23:39) Subscription models for sustaining commercial clients. (27:53) How the hourly concept phase can protect the architect's interests. (31:55) Ensure fair fees and foundational stability to protect yourself. (35:34) Why Alexander hasn’t started paying himself his salary yet. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  → Apply to join The Studio - https://growthitect.com/studio  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    41 min

  2. 12/18/2024

    How To Build Awareness In Your Market (with Graham Irwin of Essential Habitat Architecture)

    #19: Graham Irwin, owner of Essential Habitat Architecture, joins Tyler Suomala to delve into effective strategies for lead generation and maintaining client relations in the architecture industry. This episode provides insights drawn from Graham's 20+ years of experience running a solo practice across different business processes and marketing strategies. → What are the key elements in developing a sustainable system for client referrals?  → How can architects differentiate their marketing efforts to focus on solving client problems?  → How has the shift to millennials impacted client engagement and lead generation?  → How does Graham utilize social media and events for client engagement? → What are the best methods for leveraging money and time to enhance business visibility and lead acquisition? → How can creating a sample calendar improve the implementation of business strategies?  (05:19) Clients prioritize solutions, not the architectural process. (07:09) Approach tasks with clarity, not over-romanticism. (12:13) Millennials rely on online information. (15:04) Consistency and volume drive social media presence. (18:50) Referrals are inconsistent despite industry and builder connections. (24:39) Choose joy over guilt for climate action. (27:59) Alternate between providing value and self-promotion. (30:44) Consider time or money. (35:04) Leverage past successes and encourage referrals through feedback. (37:15) Efficient LinkedIn and referral strategies maintain relationships. (42:41) Set time aside to implement growth hacks. (45:38) Create a sample calendar for better planning. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  → Apply to join The Studio - https://growthitect.com/studio  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    46 min

  3. 12/11/2024

    This Architect’s Formula for Firm Growth (with Rachael Smith of Lighthouse Studio)

    #18: Rachael Smith of Lighthouse Studio joins us to explore how to expand her business and optimize her project workflows. We delve into the nuances of project management, client contracts, and how to scale a high-end residential architecture firm. In this conversation, we discuss: → How planning work schedules ensures a consistent project pipeline while allowing time for business development → How to lock clients into larger and longer contracts (and why that’s better for the architect and the client) → The benefits of using simple tools like spreadsheets and Gantt charts for project scheduling → Why it’s crucial to experiment with outsourcing strategies and contract structures → What SEO improvements can small firms make without hiring an SEO agency? → How should projects be scheduled to reflect a busy, in-demand status? → What pricing strategies can help maintain client engagement throughout a project? → How can a refined client qualification process contribute to sustainable growth? (03:03) The beneficial collaboration with a freelance designer. (07:48) Why three months' planning isn't long-term security. (12:29) How confidence in the timeline impacts project planning effectiveness. (14:11) Experiment with contract structures for higher-end design. (18:00) Middle pricing often appears as the ideal choice. (19:59) Refine qualification and establish minimum contract value. (23:50) Improving SEO to rank in the top 3. (28:21) Refine client qualification using data and opportunities. (31:58) Explore scaling to increase contract value benchmarks. (39:15) The client-focused process: present, choose, refine, build. (41:23) Expand in the current market before entering a new one. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  → Apply to join The Studio - https://growthitect.com/studio  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    47 min

  4. 12/04/2024

    Building A Business Development Playbook (with Lori Beppu and Glen Cordova of BMA Architects)

    #17: Lori Beppu and Glen Cordova of BMA Architects join me to dive into the intricacies of networking, business development, and their journey as new partners in a high-end residential architecture firm. Listen as we explore effective strategies for client acquisition, relationship building, and maintaining exclusivity in a competitive market. → Are live events a good way to identify potential contractors and partners? → What are the best practices for maintaining relationships with partners and staying top-of-mind for referrals? → Why creating a waitlist for their high-demand projects might be the best move → Leveraging social media platforms like Instagram to attract clients and the calls to action to include → The techniques to reduce friction in business processes and streamline client interactions → Why is qualifying potential clients through contact forms a crucial step in managing resources efficiently? → How can educating potential clients on the architecture process improve client relationships and project outcomes? → Why engaging with luxury realtors, interior designers, and attorneys is a key part of their relationship-building strategy? (05:43) On the market shifting; including Miami rising and the Hamptons slowing down. (07:12) The diverse architectural opportunities in Long Island and NYC (11:31) Events organized for marketing efforts. (14:04) Referrals, social media, and online publications. (22:16) When qualified prospects become clients. (25:37) How to use newsletters to prompt project collaborations with partners. (29:05) Optimize contact forms to reduce friction and qualify leads. (31:32) How to maintain contact with potential clients. (34:33) Communicate needs clearly to gain more leads. (36:19) The value of high-end residential architecture. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    42 min

  5. 11/27/2024

    Using AI To Market Your Architecture Firm (with Michael Maturo of DYAMI Architecture)

    #16: Michael Maturo of DYAMI Architecture joins us to explore how AI can transform marketing and sales processes in the architecture industry. From handling complex projects to optimizing client engagement, Michael shares his invaluable 20-year industry experience. We dive into: → Using AI to organize content and create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for architecture firms → What are the benefits and challenges of using AI tools like ChatGPT or evyAI for content creation? → How does DYAMI Architecture leverage AI to target content towards specific market segments? → Michael's advice on sales and marketing integration → How Michael’s firm has adapted post-COVID, especially in terms of marketing and obtaining new clients → Strategies to attract repeat clients through Project Improvement Plans (PIPs) → Why you need to approach networking and referrals differently for gaining new projects → Why Michael is bullish on LinkedIn as a prospecting platform → The power of human editing to ensure quality when using AI (05:00) Specializing in a proactive, high-level client service. (08:08) Handling a complex hotel project. (12:26) Why marketing and sales are similar processes. (16:01) A redesigned website prioritizes portfolio over company size. (18:42) Select the persona or tone to generate a tailored message response. (23:05) Expanding LinkedIn contacts in property management and hospitality. (27:12) Opening the Florida office and the focus on LinkedIn marketing. (34:44) Create SOPs for sales and marketing efficiency. (38:03) How to manage financial complexities in property and hotel renovations. (39:48) How advisors solve hotel renovation challenges strategically. (44:02) Optimize newsletter subject lines with existing data. (45:35) Create content triggers to engage hotel professionals. (51:07) Updating proposals with marketing content and visuals. (52:56) Use AI for organizing project improvement plans. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    56 min

  6. 11/20/2024

    How To Use Events to Find Your Next Client (with Bradly Hirdes of Ordinary Architecture Practice)

    #15: Bradly Hirdes of Ordinary Architecture Practice joins host Tyler Suomala to discuss proactive business development and networking strategies for architecture firms. Hear how Bradly navigates client relationships and expands his network in Houston, Texas. We dive into: → Showing genuine curiosity in building client relationships → How often should architects engage in networking events to build and maintain relationships? → What is the importance of formalizing a relationship management system for architecture firms? → Scheduling regular time for outreach and networking efforts → The power of hosting regular social events to help maintain and grow a network → How can Google reviews impact the visibility and growth of small architecture firms?  → Leveraging your current client relationships to attract new work (03:58) Preparing for growth by targeting ideal clients. (08:20) Leveraging connections for architectural work opportunities. (12:44) Creating spaces for deeper connections. (16:16) The power of genuine curiosity in client relationships. (19:17) Engage easily: from dinners and luncheons to charity events. (22:20) How consistent contact keeps you top of mind. (24:15) Mix your communication methods to stay memorable. (28:46) Curate intimate gatherings and social events within your network. (30:49) Seeking testimonials and reviews. (35:52) Formalize relationships, set goals, and follow up consistently. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    39 min

  7. 11/13/2024

    How To Expand Your Client Base (with Anamargarita Baasch of Baasch Gallegos Architects)

    #14: Anamargarita Baasch, a Venezuelan architect and firm owner now practicing in the US, joins us to discuss overcoming the challenges of outreach and building a diversified client base. We delve into proactive networking strategies and the potential of targeting niche markets in high-end residential and commercial projects. We dive into: → Strategies to help overcome the reluctance to call strangers → Setting a regular time for outreach activities → Why you need to choose a specific market focus for the next six months → Preferences between high-end residential and commercial projects  → The power of emotional elements in marketing messaging  → The role of contractors in outreach and business development strategies  → How to leverage existing networks → The benefits of targeting the Latin American community for high-end residential projects (03:20) How a reliable revenue source supports the firm’s growth success. (07:48) Why Latin American architects attract local family clientele. (10:31) Find market traction first, then focus and scale. (15:19) Focus marketing efforts on one service area. (23:44) Quality versus quantity leads. (27:19) Identify your market and the power of networking and cold outreach. (29:00) Why building relationships with contractors is mutually beneficial. (31:44) Collaborating on smaller projects with high-end firms. (36:42) The goal is 5-10 projects annually for growth. (38:52) Why your outreach needs to be consistent. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    41 min

  8. 11/06/2024

    How To Prove The Value of Good Design (with Tyler Mikolajczak of Built Studio)

    #13: Tyler Mikolajczak of Built Studio joins me to tackle two very common challenges. First, how architects can succinctly describe what they do and who they help. Then, how to make the value of good design more clear and obvious to clients. Join us as we unpack the strategies for engaging clients and the essentials of crafting compelling business messages. We dive into: → A formula to succinctly describe your business message → How do you prioritize client engagement throughout the design process? → Tyler Mikolajczak’s approach to "high-performance homes" → How can architects address and educate clients on the value of good design? → Strategies for disqualifying unsuitable clients… early on → The role of The Studio community in promoting collaborative growth → How Tyler Mikolajczak ensures Built Studio’s service offerings are unique in the residential architecture market (05:30) Seeking open-minded clients for personalized projects. (07:48) Targeting young families/professionals. (12:25) Ensuring client satisfaction by creating ideal homes. (15:48) The craft of uniquely helping clients achieve goals. (22:18) Educating homeowners about improving comfort and performance. (26:13) How architects often face decision fatigue and trend pressure. (27:48) How custom solutions enhance client differentiation and appeal. (30:30) Understand client desires and needs before contracting. (35:50) Enjoying banter, challenging clients and encouraging growth. (37:36) Discussing pricing strategies. GROWTHITECT RESOURCES → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join  STAY CONNECTED → Follow on LinkedIn → Follow on Instagram → Subscribe on YouTube → Follow on Twitter SPONSORS 🎁 Exclusive offer for Growthitects: Mention Growthitect when you schedule a free consultation and get 10% off your first year with Gelt! → https://go.joingelt.com/growthitect  A big thank you to Gelt for supporting our entire first season! 🙌 They’ve been a game-changer for managing both my personal and business taxes, making tax strategy, compliance, and filing stress-free. If you're looking to optimize your taxes and simplify your financial life, I highly recommend checking them out.

    40 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Actionable growth hacks to help architects improve their sales, marketing, and social media skills.

Information

  • Creator
    Tyler Suomala
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Tyler Suomala LLC
  • Show Website
    Growthitect

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