What are the best ways to follow up with potential architecture clients after an initial consultation?

1 Send a thank-you note

The first thing you should do after an initial consultation is to send a thank-you note to the potential client. This shows your professionalism, appreciation, and interest in working with them. You can send an email, a handwritten card, or even a small gift, depending on the situation. In your thank-you note, you should summarize the main points of the consultation, restate your value proposition, and express your enthusiasm for the project.

2 Provide a proposal

The next step is to provide a detailed and customized proposal that outlines the scope, timeline, budget, and deliverables of the project. You should also include some sketches, renderings, or mood boards to give the potential client a visual idea of your design concept. Your proposal should be clear, concise, and persuasive, highlighting how you can solve the client's problems and meet their expectations. You should also specify the terms and conditions of your contract, such as payment methods, revisions, and contingencies.

3 Follow up regularly

Once you've sent your proposal, you should follow up regularly with the potential client until they make a decision. You don't want to be too pushy or annoying, but you also don't want to be too passive or indifferent. You should aim to strike a balance between being persistent and respectful. You can follow up by phone, email, or text, depending on the client's preference. You should also use different types of messages, such as reminders, updates, questions, testimonials, or incentives. The goal is to keep the communication open, build rapport, and address any concerns or objections.

4 Ask for feedback

Another way to follow up with potential architecture clients is to ask for feedback on your proposal and your performance. This shows that you care about their opinions and satisfaction, and that you are willing to improve and adapt to their needs. You can ask for feedback by sending a survey, a questionnaire, or a review request. You can also ask for feedback during your follow-up calls or emails. You should use the feedback to refine your proposal, demonstrate your value, and overcome any hurdles.

5 Showcase your expertise

One more way to follow up with potential architecture clients is to showcase your expertise and credibility in the field. You can do this by sharing relevant and valuable content with them, such as blog posts, articles, videos, podcasts, or webinars. You can also invite them to join your social media platforms, newsletter, or online community. The content you share should be informative, engaging, and relevant to the client's project and goals. You should also use the content to showcase your portfolio, testimonials, awards, or media mentions.

6 Create a sense of urgency

The final way to follow up with potential architecture clients is to create a sense of urgency and scarcity. You can do this by setting a deadline for your proposal, offering a limited-time discount or bonus, or mentioning your availability or demand. You should also emphasize the benefits and outcomes of working with you, and the risks and costs of delaying or choosing another architect. You should use these tactics sparingly and ethically, and only if they are true and justified. You should also respect the client's decision and timeline, and avoid pressuring or manipulating them.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?