Explore every episode of the podcast Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Your Way To Success (No More Feast & Famine!) with Sigrun | 044 | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:45:09 | |
Jon discusses how architecture practices can escape the feast and famine cycle by using launches as part of their marketing strategy. He is joined by Sigrun, an award-winning business coach, best-selling author, and entrepreneur, who explains the power of launching to create a steady and predictable pipeline of work. Sigrun shares her journey from studying architecture to becoming a leading business mentor and outlines how architects can implement launches to grow their practices. The episode also touches on the potential for architects to create online courses as an additional revenue stream. Sigrun offers practical insights into creating excitement through events, addressing common misconceptions, and the stages involved in the launch process. Today's Guest... Sigrun is an award-winning business coach, bestselling author, and multiple 7 figure entrepreneur. She is on a mission to accelerate gender equality through female entrepreneurship. She’s been called the leading business mentor for online entrepreneurs in Europe, is a TEDx speaker, and host of the top-rated Sigrun Show podcast. Sigrun’s online business journey started shortly after finishing her master’s degree in architecture. She’s since been featured in Forbes and numerous leading media publications in Europe and has won 5 Stevie Awards; as the Hero of the year, Entrepreneur of the year, Solo entrepreneur of the year, Manager of the year, and Sales Achievement of the year. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:44 Meet Sigrun: Business Coach and Entrepreneur 04:37 Sigrun's Journey from Architecture to Online Business 19:22 The Concept of Launching Explained 23:15 The Power of Limited Editions 24:17 Creating Urgency in Marketing 25:40 Addressing Skepticism in Service Businesses 28:01 Effective Launch Strategies for Service Businesses 29:39 Stages of a Successful Launch 33:53 Leveraging Digital Products for Architects 34:28 Success Story: Zero Energy Buildings 38:59 Final Thoughts on Launching 41:50 Exploring Iceland: A Personal Favorite 44:02 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Key Takeaways... The Power of Launching: Launching is a marketing strategy that creates excitement and urgency around a product or service. By planning and executing a well-structured launch, you can significantly boost their sales in a short period. This approach works for is applicable not only to products but also to services and can lead to a more efficient and effective way of attracting and retaining clients. Building Expertise and Authority: Sharing expertise through online courses or digital products can enhance a business's authority in its field. By teaching others, businesses not only diversify their income streams but also attract new clients who recognize their expertise. This dual benefit can lead to increased business through both educational content and traditional service offerings. Creating Urgency and Scarcity: Communicating limited availability of services or spots creates a sense of urgency and encourages prospective clients to act quickly. This strategy is particularly effective in service-based businesses, as it ensures that potential clients do not delay making a decision, which can help in maintaining a steady flow of work and avoiding peaks and troughs in workloads. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Get Sigrun’s Book ‘Kickstart Your Online Business’ Now - For Free 🎁 Interested in working with Jon? 👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞 Resources… 👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). 👉 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. In The Next Episode... Next time Jon talks about customer relationship management systems (otherwise known as a CRM). | |||
| Set Up Your Google Business Profile (To Get More Leads) with Melanie Boylan | 043 | 22 Aug 2024 | 00:38:28 | |
Jon is joined by Melanie Boylan, an award-winning social media trainer and Google Business Profile specialist. Melanie explains how optimising Google Business Profiles can significantly enhance online visibility for architecture firms. The episode covers the basics and benefits of Google Business Profiles, including step-by-step guidance on setup, optimisation tips, and unique features like FAQs and call-to-action options. Melanie also shares how to leverage tools for consistent posting and answers listener questions about managing profiles efficiently. Melanie also shares her personal interest in space and science, and her experiences sharing this passion with her family. The episode ends with insights about the benefits of having a well-optimised online presence and practical advice for small architecture firms to get started. Today's Guest... Melanie Boylan is an award-winning Social Media Trainer, Digital Marketer, Speaker, Journalist and award-winning Podcaster with The Monday Morning Marketing Podcast and has been training and managing social media accounts for business since 2013. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Meet Melanie Boyland: Social Media and Google Business Profile Expert 01:50 Melanie's Passion for Space and Science 05:08 The Importance of Google Business Profiles for Architects 07:54 Setting Up and Optimising Your Google Business Profile 11:43 Maximising the Benefits of Google Business Profiles 18:37 Posting and Managing Your Google Business Profile 25:23 Final Tips and Recommendations 33:22 Conclusion and Farewell Key Takeaways... Importance of Having a Website and Google Business Profile: - Having a website provides a central hub for all your business information and content. A Google Business Profile complements your website by improving your search engine visibility and making it easier for potential clients to find and contact you. - A simple and clear website is often sufficient for service businesses, and a Google Business Profile can greatly enhance your online presence by presenting your business in Google search results and Maps. Fully Optimising Your Google Business Profile: - Fully optimising your profile involves more than just setting it up; it requires filling out all available fields, regularly posting updates, and encouraging client reviews. - Regularly check and update the profile to ensure accuracy and relevance. Google may add categories based on how people find you, so it's important to review these periodically to manage customer expectations and avoid misunderstandings. Leveraging Google Business Profile Features for Engagement: - Google Business Profile allows for various types of posts, including text, images, videos, and even scheduling links, which can drive engagement and facilitate easy contact with clients. - Features such as call-to-action buttons, FAQ sections, and review management can significantly streamline the customer journey, making it easier for them to contact you directly from the search results, thus enhancing user experience and increasing the likelihood of converting inquiries into clients. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn --- Interested in working with Jon? 👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞 --- Resources… 👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). 👉 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. In The Next Episode... Next time award-winning business coach Sigrun joins Jon to talk about using launches to scale and grow your business. | |||
| LinkedIn Post Ideas To Win Clients with Nicole Osborne | 034 | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:34:26 | |
Jon sits down with LinkedIn expert Nicole Osborne to discuss strategies for turning LinkedIn followers into paying clients. Nicole, bringing over 20 years of marketing experience and a distinctive approach blending German efficiency and infectious enthusiasm, provides valuable insights on crafting LinkedIn posts, handling client objections through content, and creating genuine FOMO. The conversation touches on best practices for engaging with LinkedIn lurkers and avoiding common mistakes. Tune in to learn how to elevate your LinkedIn presence and attract the right clients for your architecture business. Today's Guest... Nicole Osborne is your LinkedIn Meister, she’s here to help you knock through your inner Berlin Walls and build a WUNDERBAR LinkedIn presence that gets the right clients raising their hands. With 20+ years in marketing, and her signature blend of German efficiency, fun, and infectious enthusiasm, Nicole makes your LinkedIn less of a chore and more of a kunden-magnet (client-magnet). Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:34 Meet Nicole Osborne: LinkedIn Expert 03:12 Engaging Your Audience with Questions 06:53 Best Practices For Asking Questions On LinkedIn 09:20 Handling Client Objections on LinkedIn 15:14 Creating Genuine FOMO on LinkedIn 18:30 Offering Downloadable Content 19:38 The Importance of Transparency 20:19 Celebrating Client Successes 21:08 Engaging LinkedIn Lurkers 24:52 Common LinkedIn Mistakes 29:20 Optimising Your LinkedIn Profile 31:06 Nicole's Favorite Travel Destination 32:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Key Takeaways... 👉 Understanding Your Audience: Tailor your LinkedIn profile and content to what your target audience values and needs. Pose engaging questions that are easy for your audience to answer and have a positive spin. 👉 Using Questions Effectively: Use questions to engage your audience but ensure they are simple, positive, and easy to respond to. Test different types of content (polls, images, videos) and formats to see what resonates with your audience. 👉 Handling Objections in Content: Address common client objections openly in your LinkedIn content to build trust and demonstrate expertise. Utilise your content to show potential clients you understand their challenges and have solutions. 👉 Creating Genuine FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Highlight your achievements and celebrate client successes to create genuine interest and urgency in your services. Utilise scarcity by being transparent about your availability and capacity. 👉 Engaging Lurkers: Make it easy for "lurkers" (silent followers) to engage by sharing relatable and vulnerable content. Consider linking email newsletter content to LinkedIn posts to drive engagement. 👉 Avoiding Common Mistakes: Have a clear strategy to stand out and differentiate yourself from peers. Focus your posts on potential clients rather than peers to provide valuable and relatable content. Overcome the fear of imperfection; start posting and learn from feedback to refine your approach. 👉 Optimising Your LinkedIn Profile: Regularly review and optimise your profile to make sure it aligns with what potential clients need to know about you. Ensure a routine that includes posting, growing your network, and being active in direct messages. Links Mentioned In The Episode... If you’d like help with your LinkedIn strategy or content, learn about Nicole Osborne from Wunderstars here > https://wunderstars.com/wundercontent/ Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleosborne1/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon is joined by Aya Shlachter to explore the benefits of outsourcing & how you can get started. | |||
| How To Write A Business Plan For Your Architecture Firm | 033 | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:13:44 | |
Jon discusses the importance of having an active and updated business plan for solo and small architecture firm owners. He debunks common myths about business plans, advocates for simplicity, and recommends utilising 'The One Page Business Plan' by Jim Horan. Jonn also provides detailed examples and actionable steps for creating a business plan. He emphasises the value of having a clear vision, mission, objectives, strategies, and action plans to build a profitable and future-proof architecture business. Additionally, he encourages listeners to regularly review and update their business plans and outlines the benefits of having a business buddy for accountability. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Personal Experience with Business Plans 02:32 Common Myths About Business Plans 03:18 Why You Need a Business Plan 03:29 How to Write a Simple Business Plan 04:26 Recommended Resources and Tools 05:47 One-Page Business Plan Breakdown 06:53 Example Business Plan Walkthrough 10:40 Final Tips and Recommendations 12:38 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Key Takeaways... 👉 Importance of a Business Plan: Both existing and new businesses need to have a business plan. It serves as a strategic document outlining business goals and the methods to achieve them. 👉 Common Misconceptions: A business plan doesn't need to be long or complex. It's not just for securing investment; it should be an active document used throughout the life of your business. 👉 Simplify Your Business Plan: Keeping your business plan simple makes it more actionable and less overwhelming. Avoid lengthy documents that gather dust; a concise, clear plan is more effective. 👉 Use a Template: Starting with a business plan template can make the process easier. Recommended resource: “The One Page Business Plan: For The Creative Entrepreneur” by Jim Horan. 👉 Ongoing Review and Improvement: Regularly review and update your business plan. Schedule recurring business review meetings to check on progress and make adjustments. 👉 Seek Feedback: Share your business plan with trusted peers or mentors for feedback. Use the feedback to refine and improve your plan. 👉 Accountability: Finding a business buddy to join your review meetings can help keep you accountable for achieving your goals. 👉 Practical Recommendations: Buy the recommended book by Jim Horan for further guidance. Take deliberate, scheduled steps to draft and finalise your business plan. Links Mentioned In The Episode... https://onepagebusinessplan.com/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Nicole Osborne about LinkedIn post ideas to win clients. | |||
| Reach Ideal Clients Earlier Through Pinterest with Faye Strange | 032 | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:36:07 | |
Jon introduces Faye Strange, a Pinterest expert, to discuss how architects can harness the power of Pinterest to reach ideal clients. Faye highlights the importance of understanding Pinterest as a visual search engine rather than a social media platform. The conversation delves into the significance of SEO, keyword research, and creating business accounts separate from personal ones. Faye also shares tips on making relevant and engaging pins, linking them to valuable content, and the long-term benefits of Pinterest compared to other social media platforms. Today's Guest... Faye Strange is a Pinterest expert who helps inspiring service-based businesses reach more of their target audience and increase their revenue through Pinterest marketing. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Meet Faye Strange: Pinterest Expert 03:47 Understanding Pinterest: Basics and Misconceptions 08:49 Pinterest for Business: Strategies and Tips 15:47 Getting Started on Pinterest: A Step-by-Step Guide 26:36 Advanced Pinterest Tips and Seasonal Content 29:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 32:44 Personal Stories and Farewell Key Takeaways... 👉 Pinterest as a Platform: Pinterest is often misunderstood and mistaken for a social media platform, but it is actually a visual search engine. This distinction is crucial for businesses to understand in order to use Pinterest effectively. 👉 Importance for Architecture Firms: Pinterest can be particularly valuable for architecture firms, especially those engaged in residential projects, home renovations, and home extensions. The platform allows firms to reach potential clients during their lengthy discovery phase, which can span years. 👉 Setup and Optimization: - Business Account: Establish a separate business account, distinct from personal accounts. - Keyword Research: Conduct keyword research using Pinterest's search bar to identify terms potential clients might use. - Website Claiming: Claim your website on Pinterest to ensure credibility and track performance metrics. 👉 Content Strategy: - Relevant Linking: Pins should link to relevant, value-adding content on your website, such as blog posts, case studies, or free resources. - SEO Practices: Implement SEO strategies, using well-researched keywords to optimize pins and improve visibility. 👉 Content Creation: Use tools like Canva to create multiple, varied pin designs for the same content, as different designs appeal to different users. This can help increase engagement and widen reach. 👉 Long-Term Benefits: Pinterest content has a long shelf-life, with pins continuing to generate traffic and visibility weeks, months, and even years after they are posted. This contrasts sharply with the short lifespan of posts on traditional social media platforms. 👉 Local SEO: For architecture firms operating in specific regions, including local area keywords (e.g., county or city names) in pins and profiles is essential to attract geographically relevant traffic. 👉 Cross-Platform Benefits: Optimising for Pinterest can also improve Google image search results, driving additional traffic to your website from searches originating outside of Pinterest. 👉 Seasonal Content: Creating seasonally relevant content can help maintain visibility year-round, as people often search for home improvement ideas that are timely. 👉 Traffic Growth: Consistent use and optimisation of Pinterest can result in sustained traffic growth and increased brand recognition over time, even without daily active engagement. 👉 Nurturing Leads: Use Pinterest to capture early interest and drive users to your email list for ongoing nurturing, making it easier to convert them into clients when they are ready to start their projects. Links Mentioned In The Episode... —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon talks about how to write a business plan. | |||
| Bridging the Business Education Gap with Ray Brown | 031 | 30 May 2024 | 00:32:59 | |
In this episode, Jon chats with Ray Brown, a business coach, and entrepreneur who specialises in mentoring architectural practices through his organisation, ArchiBiz. The discussion highlights the significant gap in business education for architects and introduces foundational strategies to build profitable and sustainable businesses without compromising on design standards. Ray Brown shares insights from his journey from building and selling businesses in Scotland to coaching startups and top executives in Australia. The focus is on essential business education for architects, including finance, operations, sales, marketing, and project management. The episode emphasises the importance of financial literacy, strategic planning, and investing in foundational business education early in one's career to avoid common mistakes and set up for long-term success. Today's Guest... Ray Brown is a business coach and entrepreneur. He built and sold several businesses in Scotland before relocating to Australia with his family in 2005. Ray has coached everyone from startups to top executives of major companies. He also chairs multiple company boards. But today his main focus is coaching and mentoring architectural practices. Ray recognised there was a significant gap in the education provided to architects around running a business. So he founded Archibiz to help ambitious architects build profitable and sustainable businesses whilst maintaining good design standards. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 02:07 Ray Brown's Journey from Scotland to Australia 04:01 The Importance of Foundational Business Education 06:31 Challenges Architects Face in Business 10:00 The Misconceptions of Architecture as a Business 15:45 The ArchiBiz Approach 17:44 Unlocking Business Success for Architects 18:02 The Power of Forecasting in Architecture 18:53 Monthly Board Meeting Insights 19:51 Investing in Your Architectural Practice 27:28 The Importance of Financial Literacy 28:50 Final Thoughts and Advice 30:02 Favorite Travel Destinations Key Takeaways... 👉 Foundational business education is essential for bridging the gap between architectural skills and business acumen. 👉 Ambitious architects can build profitable and sustainable businesses while maintaining high design standards through the right coaching and mentoring. 👉 Financial literacy is key to understanding your business's performance and forecasting future trends. 👉 Process-driven transformation, achieved through regular small improvements, can have a significant impact on business success. 👉 It's important to understand the basics of finance, operations, sales, marketing, and project management for running a smooth architectural practice. 👉 Investing in business education and mentorship, like the ArchiBiz Business Foundations Program, can provide substantial returns by equipping architects with essential business running skills. 👉 Changing the mindset from just being an architect to being a business owner specializing in architecture is necessary, recognising that architectural practices are businesses requiring strategic management to thrive. Links Mentioned In The Episode... ArchiBiz Business Foundations Program —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... | |||
| Starting Your Own Architecture Practice with Ian Knowles | 030 | 23 May 2024 | 00:41:16 | |
In this episode Jon chats with Ian Knowles, a Norfolk-based architectural designer and the director of Ikonic Architecture, sharing his journey from an employee to starting his own architecture business specialising in residential architecture, including bespoke new builds and renovations. Ian discusses overcoming the initial fears associated with leaving a steady income, the importance of a business plan, handling home renovation projects, and tips for finding clients and managing finances as a new business owner. The podcast also advises listeners on leveraging personal networks, direct outreach, and using government schemes for business support. Ian shares his personal experience with starting Ikonic Architecture, the decision to specialise in retrofit and sustainability within residential architecture, and the steps towards establishing a successful practice. Today's Guest... Ian Knowles is a Norfolk-based architectural designer and the director of Ikonic Architecture, with over 10 years in architecture and construction, and a background in architectural stonemasonry. Ikonic Architecture specialises in residential architecture, from unlocking space in existing homes to bespoke new build dwellings. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Meet Ian Knowles: From Architectural Stonemasonry to Ikonic Architecture 01:50 The Journey of Renovating a 1930s Home 03:40 Setting Up Ikonic Architecture: Challenges and Strategies 05:08 The Financial Blueprint for Starting an Architecture Business 08:01 Navigating Business Growth and Outsourcing 08:42 Filling Knowledge Gaps and Leveraging Resources 12:42 Choosing a Business Structure: Sole Trader vs Limited Company 14:40 Financing Strategies for New Architecture Practices 24:57 The Importance of Specialisation in Architecture 30:24 Acquiring Clients and Leveraging Networks 35:14 Ian's Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Practice Owners 38:11 Ian's Favorite Place: The Vibrancy of London 40:11 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes Key Takeaways... Overcoming Fear: The transition from employment to starting your own practice can be daunting. Ian's biggest fear was finding clients and ensuring a steady flow of work. His experience highlights the importance of confronting these fears and embracing the challenges of entrepreneurship. Preparation and Planning: Ian underscores the importance of preparing a detailed business plan before launching. This plan serves as a roadmap, outlining your business's identity, target market, financial strategy, and more. Learning and Adaptation: Both emphasise the importance of continuous learning and filling knowledge gaps, especially in areas not covered by traditional architectural education, such as business management. Networking and Utilising Resources: Leveraging networking opportunities, reaching out to people within your existing network, and making use of governmental and regional business support schemes can offer valuable guidance and support. Client Acquisition Strategies: Diverse strategies, including leveraging previous professional relationships, direct outreach, and engaging in conversations, as well as experimenting with online lead generation platforms, can help in acquiring clients. The Value of Specialisation: Specialising in a particular niche, such as residential architecture, can differentiate your practice in a competitive market and help in attracting clients. Financial Management: Understanding the financial aspects of running a business, from startup loans to cash flow management and the strategic use of savings, is crucial for sustainability. The Courage to Start: The overarching advice from Ian is to 'go for it,' emphasising that the fear of failure should not deter aspiring entrepreneurs, as learning from failures is a part of the journey to success. Links Mentioned In The Episode... https://www.ikonic-architecture.co.uk/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Ray Brown about foundational business education. | |||
| The Trouble With Time Management | 029 | 16 May 2024 | 00:21:26 | |
In this episode, Jon shares his own struggles with time management and offers insights into why many sole practitioners in architecture face similar challenges. He discusses the importance of realistic scheduling, delegation, and various techniques including default diaries, theming workdays, time blocking, and more to improve time management. Jon also reflects on the transitional benefit of commutes and explores methods like the Pomodoro technique and Parkinson's law to enhance productivity. The talk emphasises the uniqueness of everyone's work habits and the necessity of tailoring time management strategies to individual needs. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Diving Into Time Management Challenges 03:22 Reflecting on the Commute: A Hidden Benefit 05:50 Exploring Time Management Techniques 14:51 Personal Experiences and Adjustments 17:03 Top Recommendations for Effective Time Management 20:37 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Key Takeaways... Challenges in Time Management: It’s a common struggle for sole practitioners to managing their time effectively. We have a tendency to overestimate daily productivity whilst ‘wearing multiple hats’ in a small practice. Reflecting on Workweek: Jon’s workweek has evolved from traditional working hours to a more flexible schedule that fits around family life. He emphasises the importance of transitions between work and home life. Tactics for Time Management: There are various tactics for improving time management, such as creating a default week or diary, theming workdays, utilising time blocking, and the concept of the maker vs. manager schedule. Bear in mind that certain tactics just may not work for you. Recommendations for Effective Time Management: Jon suggests setting realistic expectations, planning the day ahead with a short task list, and aligning tasks with personal energy levels and circadian rhythms. Continuous Improvement: Jon emphasises the concept of continuous improvement in time management. You may need to try a few time management tactics and adjust your approach to suit your own needs. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Maker’s Schedule, Manager’s Schedule —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with architectural designer Ian Knowles about starting your own architecture practice. | |||
| Transform Your Architecture Career Through Mentoring with Chris Simmons | 028 | 09 May 2024 | 00:35:07 | |
In this episode, host Jon discusses the importance of mentoring in the architecture industry with guest Chris Simmons, an architect, illustrator, and educator, and founder of Architects Instruction. They explore how mentoring can significantly impact career fulfillment, happiness, health, and financial well-being for architects. Chris shares his journey and insights on balancing a demanding career with personal life, leveraging his commute time for productivity, and the roots of his initiative to mentor the next generation of architects. The conversation also delves into the myths and realities of mentoring, offering actionable advice for both mentors and mentees to foster positive industry changes. Chris talks about the resilience and hope for architecture students entering the job market and the profound impact of mentorship on professional growth. Today's Guest... Chris Simmons is an Architect, Illustrator, and Educator. He’s an Associate Director at Squire & Partners and the founder of Architects Instruction. His mission is to create a generation of architects who are fulfilled by their careers; architects who are happy, healthy, and well paid. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Unlocking Career Fulfillment in Architecture 00:55 Introducing Chris Simmons: Architect, Illustrator, and Educator 01:56 Chris Simmons on Balancing Career and Personal Life 04:06 The Power of Mentoring in Architecture 07:27 Debunking Mentoring Myths and Sharing Success Stories 15:34 The Impact of Positive Mentoring Experiences 30:12 Navigating the Architecture Industry: Challenges and Opportunities 33:18 Final Thoughts and How to Connect Key Takeaways... 👉 Mentoring plays a crucial role in personal and professional development within the architecture industry. It provides guidance, support, and knowledge transfer, fostering growth and satisfaction in one's career. 👉 Utilising your time effectively, such as leveraging long commutes for productive work or personal development, can significantly contribute to balancing your personal and professional life. 👉 Mentoring does not need to be confined within a formal structure. It can occur naturally and informally, enriching learning experiences and professional relationships. 👉 The impact of positive mentoring experiences is profound, not just on mentees but also on mentors, who witness the growth and success of those they've guided. 👉 Engagement in social media and online platforms can enhance learning and networking opportunities within the architecture community, showing the power of sharing knowledge and experiences. 👉 Look beyond traditional mentoring setups to embrace more flexible, diverse, and inclusive approaches to getting support within the architecture profession. Links Mentioned In The Episode... https://www.architectsinstruction.com/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats about time management. | |||
| How To Write Great Architectural Job Ads with Aylin Round | 027 | 02 May 2024 | 00:31:03 | |
This episode features Aylin Round, founder of Arch Jobs. Aylin and Jon discuss the essential aspects of writing effective job ads to attract the best candidates for architecture practices. The conversation covers the differences between a job ad and a job description, the importance of clearly stating the role, benefits, and salary, and tips on advertising job vacancies effectively. Aylin emphasises the value of transparency, offering potential hires clear insights into job expectations and company culture. Additionally, they explore various platforms for job advertising, including specialised architectural job boards and the significance of a well-structured job ad. Aylin also shares personal insights and recommendations for practices to improve their hiring process. Today's Guest... Aylin Round is the founder and owner of ArchJobs, a dedicated online platform for advertising and applying to architectural roles across the UK. With extensive experience in the architectural sector, she has developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by job seekers and businesses in this industry. She also offers personalised career coaching sessions to assist job seekers with their CVs, and portfolios. And provide guidance on structuring an effective job search strategy. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction: The Art of Crafting a Killer Job Ad 01:04 Meet the Expert: Aylin Round on Architectural Hiring 02:26 The Essence of a Great Job Ad vs. Job Description 03:22 Maximising Your Job Ad's Potential: Tips and Strategies 05:40 Where to Advertise Your Architectural Vacancy 12:31 The Do's and Don'ts of Job Ad Content 21:02 Crafting the Perfect Job Ad: A Step-by-Step Guide 23:44 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Job Ads 25:55 Final Thoughts and Expert Advice 28:59 Connecting with Aylin Round and Closing Remarks Key Takeaways... 👉 The difference between a job ad and a job description: A job ad is about selling the opportunity and the benefits to potential candidates, whereas a job description is more detailed and focuses on job requirements and responsibilities. 👉 Importance of writing a compelling job ad: A well-crafted job ad can attract the right candidates, especially important for small practices that may not have the budget for recruitment agencies. 👉 Where to advertise: Utilise your own website, social media, architectural job boards, and your professional network to advertise vacancies. Consider the target audience when choosing where to post your job ad. 👉 Content details crucial to job seekers: Include job title, location, company information, responsibilities, software abilities, salary (avoid saying 'competitive'), benefits (like hybrid or flexible working), and clear application instructions. 👉 Common mistakes to avoid: Do not underestimate the effort it takes to apply for a job. Simplify the application process, be transparent about salaries, and avoid asking for salary expectations during the application stage. 👉 Effective job ad structure: Start with practice name, job title, and location. Provide a concise company overview, role details, requirements (limit bullet points), salary/benefits info, and application instructions. 👉 Encourage diversity and give applicants a chance to learn: Limit the requirements to what's essential and be open to training candidates, fostering a culture of learning and growth within the practice. Links Mentioned In The Episode... —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon is joined by Architect Chris Simmons to discuss the benefits of mentoring. | |||
| Getting Paid On Time & Recovering Debts with Ronda Jackson | 026 | 25 Apr 2024 | 00:26:39 | |
In this episode, host Jon and guest Ronda Jackson explore effective strategies for handling bad debtors and ensuring timely payments in the architecture industry. They offer advice on how to prevent bad debts by knowing your client and conducting due diligence upfront, including using a new customer onboarding form, running credit checks, and regularly updating customer financial reviews. Ronda emphasises the importance of maintaining open and friendly communication, utilising reminders and direct communication for overdue invoices, and considering legal steps like charging interest, sending a letter before action, or moving to small claims court if necessary. Ronda also describes the role and operation of debt recovery agencies, including their no-win, no-fee model. Today's Guest... Ronda Jackson is passionate about helping you collect all money owed to you or your business. As the Director of Jacksons Credit Recovery Services, Ronda is a qualified credit manager and experienced negotiator. She helps business owners resolve conflicts and maintain a positive working relationship with their debtors to achieve the result we all want - your debtor paying you what they owe. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:31 Who are Ronnie and Reggie? 03:14 Strategies for Getting Paid on Time 03:41 Preventive Measures Against Bad Debt 06:20 Steps to Take When an Invoice Becomes Overdue 08:55 Escalating Debt Recovery Efforts 12:44 Navigating the Small Claims Court 18:39 The Role of Debt Recovery Agencies 21:00 Final Thoughts and Advice 22:59 A Personal Favorite: Travel and Places 24:36 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Key Takeaways... 👉 Importance of Due Diligence: Ronda emphasises the importance of knowing who you are dealing with, understanding their legal identity, and collecting all necessary contact details upfront to prevent bad debts. 👉 Communication is Key: Keeping communication open and friendly with clients, checking in regularly, and establishing multiple streams of communication can help in early detection of payment issues. 👉 Taking Preventive Measures: Conducting credit checks, looking at company accounts, and being proactive in preventing bad debtors can save time and effort in the long run. 👉 Escalating Debt Recovery Efforts: Steps such as sending reminder emails, making polite reminder phone calls, considering legal actions like letters before action, and proceeding to court if necessary can be effective in recovering debts. 👉 Working with Debt Recovery Agencies: Understanding how debt recovery agencies work, the no win no fee structure, and the importance of transparent pricing can be helpful when considering external assistance for debt recovery. 👉 Persistence and Principled Approach: Ronda highlighted the importance of persistence in debt recovery efforts, taking a principled stance on getting paid for the work done, and not being afraid to escalate actions if necessary. 👉 Navigating Legal Processes: Understanding the process of the small claims court, the responses expected from defendants, and the timelines involved can help in navigating legal avenues for debt recovery. Links Mentioned In The Episode... —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Aylin Round about how to write a great job ad. | |||
| Lead Generation Explained (Myths, Mistakes, & Tactics) | 025 | 18 Apr 2024 | 00:23:19 | |
In this episode, Jon offers a deep dive into lead generation strategies for small to solo architecture practice owners. Jon highlights the significance of lead generation in avoiding the feast and famine cycle common to many businesses, emphasising the importance of both inbound and outbound leads. He busts common myths surrounding lead generation and outlines various misconceptions, such as the overreliance on social media for leads. The episode provides practical advice on generating outbound leads, including understanding the difference between cold, warm, and hot leads, utilising a strategy that aligns with business goals, and avoiding common mistakes like failing to schedule lead generation time. Jon shares tactics tailored to different types of leads and stresses the importance of conversations in converting leads to customers. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Lead Generation 00:46 Understanding Lead Generation Basics 02:17 Debunking Common Myths About Lead Generation 02:52 Inbound vs. Outbound Leads: What You Need to Know 05:56 Strategies for Generating Outbound Leads 06:43 Identifying and Nurturing Different Types of Leads 08:14 Common Mistakes in Lead Generation and How to Avoid Them 14:54 Effective Tactics for Engaging Hot and Cold Leads 21:54 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Teaser Key Takeaways... 👉 Importance of Lead Generation: Lead generation is essential for maintaining a consistent stream of potential clients and to avoid cycles of feast and famine. 👉 Inbound vs. Outbound Leads: Inbound leads come to you passively and you have little control over their quality and frequency. Outbound leads require proactive outreach by you or your team but can lead to more consistent lead generation. 👉 Lead Nurturing: Recognise and nurture leads based on their level of familiarity with you and their readiness to become paying customers (cold, warm, and hot leads). 👉 Avoid Common Mistakes: Like focusing only on cold leads, not scheduling time for lead generation, and being reactive instead of proactive. 👉 Lead Tracking and Follow-Up: Track leads and follow up with them. Use a CRM system or a simple method like a spreadsheet to manage and nurture leads effectively. 👉 Have a strategy: Develop a lead generation strategy aligned with your business goals. Use the right tactics to attract and nurture cold leads, and convert hot leads into customers. 👉 Use The Right Tactics: Implementing tactics like creating valuable content for cold leads and engaging in high-touch, proactive outreach for hot leads to convert leads into customers. 👉 Conversations Lead to Conversions: Invite your leads into conversation with you to understand their needs, intent, and move them towards becoming customers. —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Ronda Jackson about getting paid on time and recovering debts. | |||
| The Power Of Public Speaking For Architecture Firms with Jackie Goddard | 042 | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:36:32 | |
Jon chats with Jackie Goddard, a voice and acting coach. They explore the benefits of public speaking for architects and architecture practice owners, offering practical tips to overcome the fear of public speaking. Jackie, who has extensive experience in acting and coaching, shares her insights on how effective communication can aid in personal and business growth. They also discuss the significance of storytelling, preparation, and the three B's method: Believe, Breathe, and Be Prepared. Today's Guest... Jackie Goddard is a former fashion designer and recovering actor who’s spent 30 years working in and around the arts, most recently as a voice and acting coach. Through her company, Power to Speak, Jackie now works with entrepreneurs, business leaders & teams to make them excited about sharing their ideas and developing their Power To Speak. She is often asked to speak to audiences about public speaking, but also to share her thoughts on topics like the acting process, resilience, joy, and failure. Since 2020 Jackie has hosted a podcast, talking to speakers, authors, actors, & entrepreneurs to discover how they use their voice, story, and creativity for their work & wellbeing. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Meet Jackie Goddard 03:34 The Benefits of Public Speaking for Architects 06:29 Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking 11:13 Transforming Fear into Excitement 15:55 The Power of Storytelling in Public Speaking 21:18 First Steps to Public Speaking 27:29 The Three B's of Public Speaking 31:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 32:45 Favorite Places and Farewell Key Takeaways... Preparation is Key: - Jackie emphasises the importance of thorough preparation in overcoming the fear of public speaking. Getting all your thoughts out on paper, organising them, and practicing out loud with someone are crucial steps. Preparation helps to internalise the content, making it easier to present with confidence and fluidity. The Power of Storytelling: - Incorporating stories into your public speaking can make your message more memorable and engaging. Personal stories are particularly effective because they are easier for the speaker to remember and help build a connection with the audience. The essence is to tell stories that resonate with the audience, not just boast about personal achievements. Shifting Mindset from Fear to Excitement: - Jackie explains that anxiety and excitement are physiologically similar, and by changing your mindset to see the act of public speaking as an exciting opportunity rather than a daunting task, you can improve your performance. Believing in what you are talking about and focusing on the positive outcomes can transform nervous energy into enthusiasm. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Grab Jackie’s (free) guide: ‘Speak With Confidence 101’ Visit Jackie’s Website Connect with Jackie on LinkedIn Curious about working with Jon? 👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞 Resources... 👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). 👉 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Melanie Boylan about Google Business Profiles. | |||
| Location Independence and Digital Nomadism with Sara Kolata | 024 | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:45:50 | |
In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon explores how architects can pursue a location-independent lifestyle and build a career that incorporates their passion for travel. Guest Sara Kolata, an architect turned digital transformation expert, shares her transition from traditional architecture practice to embracing digital nomadism and online business. Sara discusses her mission to improve the financial well-being of architects, her journey across various countries, the challenges and learnings from living a nomadic lifestyle, and how she eventually found a balance that suits her personal and professional life. She underscores the importance of continuous learning, aligning work with one’s essence, and the invaluable insights gained from travelling. Sara encourages architects to explore digital nomadism and various pathways to incorporate travel into their careers without being confined to traditional roles, along with practical advice on handling taxes and choosing destinations conducive to architectural professionals. Today's Guest... Sara Kolata is an architect and a digital transformation expert. Her mission is to raise the financial well-being of architects. She is a host of Architecture Talk: Tank, a show that serves as a platform for industry specialists to talk about business, marketing, and profitability in Architecture. Sara helps architecture professionals develop online businesses and create online courses. She also works as a business developer for medium to large-size architecture firms, helping them manage their finances and implement better client attraction strategies. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction: The Journey from Architecture to Digital Nomadism 00:59 Meet Sara Kolata: Architect Turned Digital Transformation Expert 01:46 Skydiving: A Metaphor for Freedom and Overcoming Fears 03:55 The Shift to Location Independence and Online Business 12:45 The Challenges and Realities of Being a Digital Nomad 18:33 Aligning Work with Lifestyle: The Digital Nomad's Dilemma 23:21 Exploring Location Independence in Architecture 23:56 Navigating Taxes as a Digital Nomad 24:08 The Blueprint for Architects: Business and Travel 24:34 Tax Strategies for Globetrotting Professionals 27:11 Choosing the Right Destinations for Architecture Enthusiasts 30:18 The Impact of Travel on Architectural Practice 31:54 Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Architecture 40:17 Continuous Learning: The Key to a Fulfilling Career 43:33 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Key Takeaways... 👉 Pursue Your Passion: Sara emphasises the importance of aligning one's career with personal passions, such as her transition from traditional architecture to digital nomadism to focus on her love for travel and independence. 👉 Embracing Digital Transformation: The digital realm offers architects and related professionals new avenues for career development and business growth, as demonstrated by Sara's ventures into online business, online course creation, and her role at DisruptMag. 👉 The Reality of Digital Nomadism: While the lifestyle may seem glamorous on social media, Sara shares the practical challenges and logistics involved, from dealing with time zones to managing work in different locations. 👉 Leveraging Continuous Learning: Continuous personal and professional development is vital for adapting to changing circumstances and seizing new opportunities, as highlighted by Sara's continuous engagement in learning. 👉 Navigating Location Independence: There are various paths to achieving location independence in architecture, not limited to traditional practice. Sara's journey underscores the importance of aligning work with lifestyle goals for sustainable success. 👉 Importance of a Global Perspective: Travel and exposure to different cultures enrich your perspective, fostering creativity and innovation in your architectural work. 👉 Tax Considerations for Nomads: Sara advises on the practicalities of managing taxes as a digital nomad, emphasising the importance of understanding tax obligations in one's home country and places of travel. 👉 Career Flexibility and Identity: Emphasising the value of unique experiences and personal growth over traditional career paths, Sara encourages architects to live their dreams and design their unique career paths. Links Mentioned In The Episode... —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats about generating leads for your architecture business. | |||
| Money Matters: Knowing Your Numbers with Mahmood Reza | 023 | 04 Apr 2024 | 00:30:31 | |
In this episode, host Jon interviews Mahmood Reza, a business finance expert, tax advisor, and author of 'I Hate Numbers.' This discussion focuses on the importance for architects, especially those running solo or small practices, to understand their financial numbers for business growth, tax savings, and overall financial health. Mahmood emphasises the significance of planning, recognising money's role in achieving business goals, and overcoming financial stress. They explore the 'Plan It, Do It, Profit' concept which outlines the journey from planning to profitability. Mahmood also shares insights on money mindset, the impact of personal background on financial decisions, and the importance of record keeping for informed business decisions. Additionally, advice on profit margins, managing taxes, and utilising bookkeeping software for financial management is provided. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and the relevance of having a healthy relationship with money to foster a successful architecture practice. Today's Guest... Mahmood Reza is a business finance fixer, tax advisor, and author of I Hate Numbers. He has helped thousands of sole traders, business owners, artists, creatives, and social enterprises have businesses, not hobbies, make money, save tax, improve their money mindsets, and reduce their financial stress and anxiety. Mahmood believes that once you understand what your numbers are, where they come from, and what they mean, you can use them to make better decisions and ultimately make (or keep) more money. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Unlocking Financial Freedom in Architecture 00:45 Introducing the Money Matters Expert 01:17 The Power of Understanding Your Numbers 03:51 A Deep Dive into Money Mindset 08:11 The Blueprint to Profit: Plan It, Do It, Profit 11:35 Setting Realistic Profit Margins for Small Businesses 19:06 The Importance of Record Keeping and Tax Planning 26:06 Final Thoughts and Advice from Mahmood 28:06 Mahmood's Favourite Place 29:24 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Key Takeaways... 👉 Understanding Your Numbers is Crucial: Mahmood emphasises the importance of knowing your business numbers – including expenses, revenues, and profits – to make informed decisions, improve financial health, and ensure sustainable growth. 👉 Changing Your Money Mindset: Your background and attitude towards money can significantly impact your business finances. Changing a negative or fearful mindset about money to a more positive and proactive one can lead to better financial management and success. 👉 The Impact of Planning and Action: The concept of "Plan It, Do It, Profit" introduced by Mahmood outlines the importance of planning, taking action according to the plan, and focusing on profitable outcomes. This process encourages business owners to have clear goals and a path to achieving them. 👉 Financial Targets: Achieving profitability is a gradual process that comes from understanding and managing business finances effectively. 👉 The Importance of Record Keeping: Accurate and consistent record-keeping is vital for understanding the financial state of a business, making informed decisions, and staying compliant with tax obligations. 👉 Investing in Financial Management Tools: Investing in cloud-based bookkeeping software can simplify financial management, improve efficiency, and reduce stress related to finances. 👉 Dealing with Taxes: Preparing for tax obligations by setting aside a portion of income and understanding the impact of different taxes on a business is crucial for financial health and compliance. 👉 Personal Fulfillment and Financial Goals: Whilst financial success is important, aligning business goals with personal fulfillment, freedom, and flexibility is equally vital. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Mahmood’s Website > https://www.ihatenumbers.co.uk/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon chats with Architect Sara Kolata about how you can craft a location-independent architecture business. | |||
| Email Newsletters: The Underrated Marketing Tool with Nikita Morell | 022 | 28 Mar 2024 | 00:25:31 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon discusses the importance and effectiveness of email newsletters for solo and small firm architecture practice owners with Nikita Morell, a copywriter who specialises in the architecture industry. They explore how newsletters can create a direct and personal connection with the audience, bypassing social media algorithms, and emphasise consistency and personalization over visual design. Nikita shares insights on crafting engaging content, segmenting the audience for tailored messaging, and strategies for building an email list. And shares tips for writing newsletters that resonate with readers. Will you try using an email newsletter to build relationships, credibility, and likability with your clients? Today's Guest... Nikita Morell is a copywriter for architecture professionals. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words. Nikita specialises in helping architecture practices and sole practitioners around the world with their website messaging and uncovering their ‘X factor’ (the one thing that makes them different from every other firm) — so they can get a steady stream of ridiculously good projects. She analysed 663 architecture websites (you can see the results on her website) and is recognised for her unboring email newsletter and slightly controversial LinkedIn posts. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction: The Power of Email Newsletters 00:56 Meet Nikita Morell: The Architect's Copywriter 03:17 The Underrated Marketing Tool: Email Newsletters 05:43 Designing Your Email Newsletter: Aesthetics vs. Content 07:41 Crafting the Perfect Email Newsletter 18:46 Building and Segmenting Your Email List 22:15 Final Thoughts and A Personal Favorite Place Key Takeaways... 👉 Email newsletters are an underrated marketing tool in the architecture industry. They allow architecture professionals to stay top of mind with clients and have a direct, personalised conversation with them. 👉 Email newsletters do not have to look visually stunning. Plain text emails can be just as effective in delivering the message. Focus on the content and writing style to create a genuine, conversational tone. 👉 Before writing an email newsletter, consider the value it will provide to your ideal clients and your business. Personalise the content to connect with different segments of your audience and avoid generic, boring newsletters. 👉 Use lead magnets on your website to attract subscribers. Segment your email list based on different client types to personalise the content and improve engagement. 👉 Consistency is key in email newsletters, but focus on quality over quantity. Regular newsletters help build trust, credibility, and likability with your audience. 👉 Personalise the newsletters by writing directly to the audience and prompting replies with questions. Keep the tone conversational and relatable to humanise the communication. 👉 Nikita encourages architects to give email newsletters a try and emphasises the enjoyment and personal connection they can bring. 👇 Links Mentioned In The Episode... To get Nikita's hilarious emails full of FREE copywriting tips & templates go to www.nikitamorell.com/newsletter ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon chats with business finance fixer Mahmood Reza about money, and getting to grips with your numbers. | |||
| What's Next For Architecture Business Club? | 021 | 21 Mar 2024 | 00:17:16 | |
In this episode, Jon announces exciting developments for the Architecture Business Club, aiming to extend its value beyond just being a podcast. The club, intended for solo and small firm architecture practice owners, is about to introduce several new offerings to foster a community within the architecture industry. Key announcements include the launch of a new website for enhanced accessibility to resources, the release of a free 'Architecture Business Blueprint' for business growth, and plans for an interactive community platform that may feature discussion groups, webinars, Q&A sessions, and in-person events. Additionally, Jon introduces the Architecture Mastermind Group for peer support and accountability, and one-to-one coaching, mentoring, and consulting services for personalised business guidance. This episode emphasises the club's vision of being more than a podcast by providing a holistic support system for architects, architectural technologists, and designers. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Welcome to Architecture Business Club! 03:11 Introducing the New Architecture Business Club Website 05:13 Unveiling the Architecture Business Blueprint 08:21 Building a Community Beyond the Podcast 12:16 Exploring Mastermind Groups and One-to-One Coaching 15:10 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward Key Takeaways... 👉 Expansion Plans: Jon is enthusiastic about expanding the Architecture Business Club beyond just being a podcast. He aims to create a community where architecture professionals can come together, socialise, share knowledge, and support each other. 👉 New Website Launch: A new website for the Architecture Business Club has been launched to provide a central hub for resources, podcasts, and updates. Jon encourages feedback and engagement from the audience to improve the website further. 👉 Architecture Business Blueprint: Jon has prepared a comprehensive document called the Architecture Business Blueprint, aimed at helping architecture professionals build and grow their businesses. The blueprint is offered as a free resource on the website. 👉 Focus on Community Building: Community plays a crucial role in Jon's vision for the Architecture Business Club. He emphasises the importance of creating a club-like atmosphere where professionals can connect, learn, and support each other. 👉 Mastermind Groups and Coaching: Jon highlights the value of mastermind groups for achieving business goals and offers opportunities for one-to-one coaching, mentoring, and consulting to support professionals in their business endeavors. 👉 Future Plans: Jon is dedicated to focusing entirely on the Architecture Business Club and supporting others in the architecture industry. He is committed to providing you with valuable content. ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 Check out our new website at… https://architecturebusinessclub.com 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Nikita Morell about email newsletters, an underrated marketing tool. | |||
| Grade-G Student To Grade-A Architecture with Ian Shirvell | 020 | 14 Mar 2024 | 00:28:55 | |
In the episode, host Jon interviews Ian Shirvell, a Chartered Architectural Technologist and the founder of Ora Design Architecture. Ian shares his journey from a G-grade high school student to a successful sole practitioner in architecture. Ian discusses how he started his career as a carpenter's apprentice, then moved into architectural technology after stints at a building surveyors, a timber frame company, and two prestigious RIBA registered practices. He chats about the influence his family had on his career choices. Ian discusses his difficulties at school due to undiagnosed dyslexia, his journey through the recession, and his subsequent freelance opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today's Guest... Ian Shirvell is a Chartered Architectural Technologist and is passionate about all aspects of architecture and construction. He comes from a family of property developers and his career spans over 20 years. Starting as an apprenticeship served Carpenter, he studied Architectural Technology at Oxford and developed his architectural expertise during his time at two prestigious RIBA registered practices. Throughout his career, Ian has worked on a broad range of projects including Residential, Healthcare, Churches, and Education including a new leading Independent School and renowned Oxford University buildings. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:45 Ian's Unconventional Journey into Architecture 01:39 Ian's Early Interest in Architecture and DIY 03:35 Ian's Struggles in School and Overcoming Dyslexia 07:30 Ian's Journey from Carpentry to Architecture 10:48 The Importance of Learning and Adapting in Architecture 19:20 Ian's Transition to Freelancing and Starting His Own Practice 23:17 Challenges and Successes in Running an Architecture Business 26:42 Ian's Favorite Places and Closing Remarks Key Takeaways... 👉 Overcoming Challenges: Ian's story from being a high school student with low grades to becoming a successful chartered architectural technologist highlights the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles. 👉 Adapting Learning Styles: Ian discussed how his undiagnosed dyslexia influenced his learning and how he found his unique way of understanding and grasping concepts, emphasizing the importance of adapting learning styles to succeed. 👉 Career Transition: Ian's unconventional career journey from carpentry to architecture showcases the value of diverse experiences and skill sets in shaping a successful career path. 👉 Professional Growth: Ian's progression from working as a freelancer to starting his own practice demonstrates the significance of continuous learning, adaptability, and seizing opportunities for professional growth. 👉 Client-Centric Approach: Ian's experience with challenging projects underscored the importance of client relationships, providing value through expertise, and delivering high-quality work to build a successful architecture business. 👉 Strategic Career Choices: Ian emphasised the strategic importance of choosing the right firms, gaining diverse experiences, and continuously improving skills to stand out in a competitive industry. 👉 Passion for Innovation: Ian's enthusiasm for exploring new technologies and project types reflects the value of innovation, curiosity, and a passion for learning in driving business success. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Ian’s Website > https://www.oradesign.co.uk/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon shares exciting plans for Architecture Business Club beyond the podcast and will be sharing an incredible resource with you. | |||
| Being More Visible and Authentic with Fifi Mason | 019 | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:31:50 | |
In this episode, host Jon is joined by personal brand and visibility coach Fifi Mason. They discuss how to be more visible and authentic when running your architecture business. Fifi shares strategies to overcome self-silencing, an internal barrier that prevents individuals from expressing their thoughts or ideas due to fear of perceived consequences. Fifi also highlights the importance of being seen for business owners, especially on social media platforms, and provides practical tips for posting on these platforms. In the episode, they also have a light-hearted conversation about their shared love for dogs. Today's Guest... Fifi Mason is a Personal Brand & Visibility Coach, and her mission and purpose is to help individuals with quieter voices show up authentically, amplify their impact and create the change they wish to see in the world. To find out what’s holding you back from showing up as the face of your business – visit fifimason.com and take Fifi’s Self-Silencing Quiz. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Visibility in Business 00:50 Getting to Know Fifi Mason 01:18 A Shared Love for Dogs 02:27 Understanding Visibility in Business 04:46 Common Visibility Mistakes in Business 08:17 Overcoming Self Silencing 10:57 The Journey to Visibility 13:37 Tips to Overcome Self Silencing 20:00 Social Media Visibility Tips 29:20 Fifi's Favorite Place 30:22 Connecting with Fifi Mason 30:50 Closing Remarks and Preview of Next Episode Key Takeaways... 👉 Visibility in Business: It’s important to be seen and heard, especially online, in order to reach the right people and build meaningful connections. 👉 Overcoming Self Silencing: The holding back from sharing thoughts, ideas, and opinions due to fear of the perceived consequences. Strive to break free from these self-imposed barriers and find the confidence to express yourself. 👉 Common Visibility Mistakes: Such as hiding behind a logo and not showing your personality. Be authentic and differentiate yourself to really connect with other people. 👉 Social Media Visibility: Share your unique approaches, personal stories, and testimonials in order to connect with the audience and build know, like, and trust. 👉 Take Small Steps Towards Visibility: Start with sharing personal content with close friends and family, and gradually expanding to a wider audience. Find the right balance between sharing personal stories and maintaining professionalism. 👉 Find Your Community: Find and engage with a community of like-minded individuals, whether through existing groups or creating one's own community. This helps you build connections and find an audience receptive to your ideas and opinions. 👉 The Power of Stories: Stories are an effective way to connect with people on social media. Sharing stories that show vulnerability and personal growth can help in building deeper connections and resonating with your audience. 👉 Hope and Possibility: It’s possible to overcome your shyness, introversion, and the fear of being visible. Gradually step out of your comfort zone and gain a sense of freedom and enjoyment that comes with being visible and authentically you. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Connect with Fifi and take her Self-Silencing Quiz >>> https://fifimason.com/connect ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon is joined by Architectural Technologist Ian Shirvell to discuss his unconventional career journey into architecture. | |||
| The Power Of Mastermind Groups with Chris Ducker | 018 | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:31:57 | |
Jon interviews entrepreneur Chris Ducker about the power of mastermind groups and how they can bolster your business. They discuss the two different types of masterminds; peer-led and leader-led, and the benefits and misconceptions about both. Chris shares his experiences, highlighting the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and self-education. He emphasises the vital role of the leader in leader-led masterminds. Chris also shares a bit about his background, including his love for sketching, which was inspired by his father's profession as an architect. Today's Guest... Chris Ducker is a serial entrepreneur and author of the bestselling books, Virtual Freedom and more recently, Rise of the Youpreneur. Based in Cambridge, England, Chris owns and operates several businesses, including the VA recruiting hub, VirtualStaffFinder.com, and the personal brand enterprise education company Youpreneur.com. He is regarded as one of the top experts in the world on the subjects of remote team building and scaling an expert business. Since 2008, Chris has been a trusted international business mentor, keynote speaker, and podcaster, and currently spends most of his time working with successful entrepreneurs, as well as investing in and advising startup companies. His work is regularly published on ChrisDucker.com and he can be followed on Instagram and LinkedIn. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Mastermind Groups 00:47 Meet Chris Ducker: Expert Business Mentor & Entrepreneur 01:44 Chris's Personal Journey and Love for Sketching 07:59 The Power of Mastermind Groups 10:59 Benefits and Misconceptions of Mastermind Groups 11:33 Types of Mastermind Groups 13:23 Chris's Personal Experiences with Mastermind Groups 22:08 Choosing the Right Mastermind Group 24:38 Final Thoughts and Advice 30:39 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Key Takeaways... 👉 Mastermind groups present a platform for validating business ideas and achieving goals. They can be peer-to-peer groups or a leader-led group run by someone more advanced in their business journey, providing guidance and advice to others. 👉 Success in business doesn't occur by mere participation in groups such as masterminds, it requires actual action. Entrepreneurs must not only participate in discussions but also implement the strategies and advice offered. 👉 The choice of mastermind group must align with an entrepreneur's business stage. An advanced group might feel overwhelming and an overly beginner group may not provide enough growth potential. 👉 Continuous education is a must for staying ahead in business. This could be achieved through podcasts, books, and mastermind group discussions. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Chris Ducker's Website - https://www.chrisducker.com ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with visibility coach Fifi Mason about how you can start showing up and be more visible in what you do. | |||
| Ten Lessons (From Ten Years) As A Sole Practitioner | 017 | 22 Feb 2024 | 00:20:27 | |
In this episode, Jon shares 10 key lessons from his decade-long experience as a sole practitioner in architecture. He talks about the importance of learning from mistakes, understanding your financial state even if you're not motivated by money, delegating tasks, and building an emergency fund in your business. He also emphasises the need to make progress over perfection, continuing to find joy in your business, and connecting with others to avoid feeling alone in your journey. Jon encourages you to learn from his mistakes so you can build a profitable future-proof architecture business. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:47 10 Years of Experience: The Journey Begins 01:23 The Reality of Being a Sole Practitioner 01:56 Learning from Mistakes: The Hard Truths 03:00 The Importance of Money in Business 04:46 The Gap in Architectural Education 06:52 The Power of Differentiation in Architecture 08:24 The Impact of Relocation on Business 10:43 Dealing with Unexpected Crises 12:11 The Perils of Perfectionism 13:18 The Struggle of Doing Everything Yourself 17:11 The Loneliness of Running Your Own Business 19:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Key Takeaways... 👉 Learn from your mistakes, fail fast, and move on. 👉 Don't neglect your understanding of money and financial management, even if you're not primarily motivated by money. 👉 Running a successful architecture business requires more than just being a great architect or designer, it requires developing business skills and knowledge. 👉 Educate your customers about the value you offer and how you work. 👉 Look for ways to diversify your income so you're not solely reliant on referrals. 👉 Build an emergency fund in your business to prepare for unexpected crises. 👉 Focus on making progress rather than pursuing perfection in your business. 👉 Delegate tasks that don't align with your strengths and priorities. 👉 Take the initiative to seek support and connection with others in your field. 👉 Your architecture business journey doesn't have to be lonely, find your tribe and create connections. ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats about the power of mastermind groups with expert business mentor Chris Ducker. | |||
| Embracing Your Neurodivergent Quirks with Mike Cole | 016 | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:34:47 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon speaks with Mike Cole, an IFC-accredited coach and qualified accountant, about embracing neurodiversity in your architecture business. Mike discusses his experience with dyslexia and the strengths it has brought to his work, such as problem-solving and big-picture thinking. He shares his journey of self-acceptance and encourages listeners to lean into their uniqueness and find the most efficient ways for them to work. He also highlights the importance of understanding oneself, both strengths and weaknesses, to build a profitable future-proof architecture business. Mike has also created a quiz to help you discover what's holding you back in your businesses and career. Today's Guest... Mike Cole is an ICF-accredited coach and qualified accountant with a wealth of business experience from leading multinational teams in £multi-billion corporates to supporting solopreneurs to develop their unique, profitable businesses. Mike combines skillful coaching, and extensive business experience to guide busy people, who are overflowing with ideas, along their unique path to success. He creates calm, collaborative spaces that unblock thinking, generate rapid insight, and result in actionable steps. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity 00:55 Guest Introduction: Mike Cole 03:19 Understanding Neurodivergence 04:23 Mike's Personal Journey with Dyslexia 06:09 Overcoming Challenges in the Workplace 13:26 Transitioning to Small Business Ownership 15:18 The Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring 16:45 Building a Business Around Your Strengths 19:25 Understanding and Embracing Your Unique Strengths 20:23 The Coin Analogy: Embracing Both Sides of Your Personality 22:19 The Power of Big-Picture Thinking and Trust 25:08 The Impact of Diagnosis and Self-Understanding 27:50 Leaning into Your Specialness: Final Thoughts and Encouragement 31:44 Connecting with Mike and Final Remarks Key Takeaways... 👉 Embrace your quirks or your neurodivergent attributes. Whether in business or life, try to understand and lean into your unique traits and strengths, even if they may deviate from the 'norm'. This promotes authenticity and usually leads to better results in one's work. 👉 Take time to understand the best working methods for you. By analysing and adjusting the way you work you can leverage your strengths, and boost efficiency. 👉 Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Find peace with your weaknesses and focus on maximising your strengths. Your strengths are what make you valuable to others. 👉 Consider problems from different perspectives. Different people understand and solve problems in unique ways due to their varied experiences, skills, and thought processes. Embracing this diversity of thought can lead to innovative solutions. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Mike’s Quiz - https://www.milico.uk/quiz Mike’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thismikecole/ Mike’s Instagram - @thismikecole ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, host Jon shares stories and lessons learned during the past decade as a sole practitioner in architecture. | |||
| Reduce Your Risk Designing Roofs With James Talman | 015 | 08 Feb 2024 | 00:29:32 | |
In this episode, Jon hosts Architecture Business Club with guest James Talman, CEO of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and Competent Roofer. They delve into the intricacies of roofing in architectural designs and how architects can minimise risks to ensure that their next roof is designed and built properly. James also shares important information about the NFRC's crucial role in enhancing technical excellence in roofing, elevating industry standards, and offering free resources. The discussion further explores the Building Safety Act and how the industry is preparing to implement it to ensure safety and professionalism. Today's Guest... James Talman is the CEO of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and CompetentRoofer. Since 2016, James has led a transformation focused on enhancing technical excellence in roofing and elevating industry standards. He's played a key role in partnerships, including CITB's RoofCERT accreditation programme, and represents the NFRC globally, fostering connections with roofing bodies in China, Germany, USA, and Canada. James, a board member of Build UK, balances his professional life with a passion for sports and the outdoors. Episode Highlights... 00:53 Introduction to the Guest - James Talman 01:39 Personal Interests and Hobbies 03:23 Understanding the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) 06:29 Benefits of Working with NFRC Registered Contractors 08:41 Understanding the Competent Roofer Scheme 10:27 How NFRC Can Assist Architecture Practices 15:32 Reducing Risks and Ensuring Compliance 20:09 Understanding the Building Safety Act 24:49 Career Opportunities in Roofing 26:16 Personal Travel Experiences 27:34 Connecting with NFRC Online 28:31 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode Key Takeaways... 👉 The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) is a membership organisation that provides support and resources for contractors, manufacturers, and service providers in the roofing industry. 👉 The NFRC offers a Competent Roofer scheme, which allows roofing contractors to self-certify their work to building regulations, eliminating the need for separate building control inspections. 👉 NFRC registered contractors undergo rigorous inspections and audits to ensure their commercial probity, office procedures, and health and safety standards meet industry standards. 👉 Working with NFRC registered contractors provides advantages such as independent inspections, comprehensive guarantees, compliance with data provision, and recourse in case of any issues. 👉 The NFRC has connections with suppliers and manufacturers in the roofing industry and can assist in finding specialist roofing contractors for specific projects, such as heritage buildings. 👉 The NFRC provides resources on its website, including essential safety information, guidance bulletins, and books on various types of roofing. 👉 The NFRC is actively involved in the development of the roofing industry, including implementing mandatory technical competencies and promoting careers in roofing. 👉 The Building Safety Act has introduced legislation and frameworks for competency in the construction industry, including roofing, to ensure safety standards are met. 👉 The NFRC is available to provide support, advice, and guidance to architects and other professionals involved in roofing projects. Links Mentioned In The Episode... NFRC’s Website > https://www.nfrc.co.uk/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with business coach Mike Cole about embracing your neurodivergent quirks. | |||
| Beyond The Podcast: Supporting Small Architecture Practices | 041 | 08 Aug 2024 | 00:14:42 | |
Jon shares insights into his work supporting small practice founders and sole practitioners in the architecture industry. He discusses his coaching, consulting, and mentoring services designed to help architecture businesses achieve their goals. Jon highlights the various ways he assists clients, from strategic planning and marketing to financial forecasting and team building. Real client stories illustrate how his tailored approach has helped small practices overcome challenges and grow. Listeners are invited to connect with Jon for personalised support and to explore potential collaborations. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Services Offered Beyond the Podcast 06:42 Client Success Stories 11:21 How to Work with Jon 13:37 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Key Takeaways... Personalised Support for Small Architecture Practices: Jon provides personalised one-to-one support for small practice founders and sole practitioners. This includes coaching, consulting, and mentoring services tailored to each client's unique needs, helping them achieve goals such as growing their practice, working fewer hours, or building their team. Real-Life Client Success Stories: Jon shares real-life examples of how he's helped clients overcome specific challenges. These stories illustrate practical solutions and strategies, such as improving time management, integrating specialised services like retrofit and low-energy design, enhancing marketing tactics, and developing new business plans aligned with long-term goals. Initial Engagement Process for New Clients: Emphasising the importance of a good fit, Jon explains the initial engagement process for prospective clients. This involves one or two initial meetings, usually held on Zoom, to understand your needs and decide if he’s a good fit for you. This ensures that both parties are aligned and that Jon can effectively support your business objectives. —-- 👇 Book a chat with Jon to explore working 1-2-1 with him 📞 https://tidycal.com/mrjonclayton/quick-chat —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint 👇 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 https://chat.whatsapp.com/BtFJsJF6iL37vUb5tHNpkI 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Jackie Goddard to discuss the benefits of public speaking. | |||
| Breaking Free From The Nine To Five with Anna Lundberg | 014 | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:42:54 | |
In this episode, host Jon is joined by Anna Lundberg, founder of One Step Outside who helps professionals break free from a traditional 9-5 job to find a more meaningful definition of success. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from employee to business owner, the importance of building a personal brand, the need for work-life integration versus balance, and the potential for future-proofing the business. Anna also shares her five-pillar business framework and how it helps solo and small-firm architecture practice owners navigate their business journey. She further explores alternative business models, moving past one-to-one client services. They also touch upon travel experiences and their relevance in expanding horizons and sparking curiosity. Today's Guest... Anna Lundberg is all about crafting careers and businesses that don't just focus on traditional success measures, but take a more balanced approach. Founder of One Step Outside®, she is on a mission to help experienced professionals break free from the 9 to 5 and pursue a more meaningful definition of success. She is the host of the Reimagining Success® podcast and the author of several books. And she's juggling all this while raising two little kiddos down in sunny Dorset. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:56 Guest Introduction: Anna Lundberg 01:42 Anna's Journey: Leaving Corporate World 02:02 Anna's South America Adventure 02:39 The Impact of Travel on Career Decisions 05:11 The Five Pillars Framework Overview 06:39 Pillar One: Defining Your Version of Success 10:05 Pillar Two: Cultivating Confidence and Resilience 14:27 Pillar Three: Developing the Right Business Model 18:32 Exploring Alternative Business Models 21:53 Exploring Creative Solutions in Business 22:22 Understanding Client Needs and Preferences 23:11 Exploring Different Business Models 24:10 Building Trust and Progression in Business 26:19 Pillar Four: The Importance of Personal Branding 30:38 Pillar Five: Work-Life Integration 34:06 Recommendations for Starting or Improving a Business 37:45 The Role of Travel and Location in Personal Fulfillment 40:58 Connecting with Anna Lundberg Online 41:57 Preview of the Next Episode and Closing Remarks Key Takeaways... 👉 Importance of Self-Awareness - Understanding one's own strengths, preferences, personality, and life situation is crucial before starting or revamping a business. 👉 Redefining Success - Anna encourages not to limit the definition of success to monetary outcomes. Instead, she suggests it should include aspects such as freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment. 👉 Cultivating Resilience and Confidence - Building resilience and confidence is essential in managing the ups and downs that come with running a business. 👉 Diversifying Business Models - Not to be limited by traditional business models, and consider alternatives such as paid resources, teaching, mentoring, and upselling other services. 👉 The Value of Personal Branding - Creating a personal brand can help differentiate a business and establish a stronger connection with clients. 👉 Work-Life Integration, not Balance - Anna argues for the idea of work-life integration, suggesting that it's about finding a way for work and personal life to harmoniously co-exist. 👉 Importance of Progression - Offering entry-level services or products can help bring clients into your world and possibly upsell them to premium services later. 👉 Taking Small Steps towards Big Goals - Ambitious goals can be made more achievable by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Anna’s Website >https://onestepoutside.com/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with James Talman about the National Federation Of Roofing Contractors and how they are supporting architectural practices. | |||
| Navigating Your Business Journey with Quarterly Planning | 013 | 25 Jan 2024 | 00:18:20 | |
In this episode, host Jon discusses the significance of strategic planning for business success. Drawing comparisons between embarking on a business journey and going on a road trip, he stresses the importance of setting a clear destination (dubbed the 'big business goal') for the year ahead. Jon advocates for a quarterly approach, stating that breaking down the year into four manageable chunks allows for better planning, easier course corrections, and the capacity to see real results in a business over a 90-day period. Several measurable metrics and tangible tactics for achieving quarterly goals are suggested. Jon reminds listeners of the value of rewarding achieved goals and introduces the concept of creating 'jeopardy' to add urgency to get the work done. Lastly, he suggests methods for holding oneself accountable for plans, including making your intentions public and utilising accountability buddies. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction To Quarterly Planning 01:31 The Analogy of Business Journey to a Car Journey 02:17 Setting Your Business Goals 02:42 The Concept of Quarterly Planning 03:54 The Benefits of Quarterly Checkpoints 04:08 What to Include in Your Quarterly Plan 04:32 Reflecting on the Previous Quarter 04:58 Setting a Main Quarterly Goal 06:10 Financial Measures in Your Quarterly Plan 08:52 Building Your Authority and Visibility 10:54 Tying Your Plan with Marketing and Promotion 13:03 Sticking to Your Quarterly Plan 16:06 What to Do Next Quarter 17:20 Outro and Preview of the Next Episode Key Takeaways... 👉 Planning is essential: it’s important to plan your business journey, just like planning a car trip. Set specific goals and map out the best route to achieve them. 👉 Break down your business journey into manageable stages or quarters. By focusing on one stage at a time, it becomes easier to stay on track and make course corrections if needed. 👉 Reflect and make improvements on the previous quarter and identify what went well, what could have been better, and any obstacles that stood in the way. This reflection helps in making improvements and ensuring better results in the next quarter. 👉 Set clear quarterly goals and focus on one main goal at a time. This helps in making progress towards the overall business goal for the year. 👉 Measure key metrics such as revenue, leads, sales conversations, conversion rates, average spend, and profit margin. By monitoring these metrics, you can track your progress and make necessary adjustments. 👉 Promote strategically: Think about different ways to promote your business throughout the year. Creating different peak points or focusing on different aspects of your services/products can keep your promotions fresh and engaging. 👉 Stay accountable and motivated by making your plan visible, sharing your goals publicly, finding an accountability partner, creating a sense of jeopardy, and rewarding yourself when you achieve your quarterly goals. ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Anna Lundberg about breaking free from the nine to five. | |||
| Returning to Practice: A Conversation with Ann Vanner | 012 | 18 Jan 2024 | 00:30:56 | |
The episode features an in-depth conversation between host, Jon, and guest, Ann Vanner, a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and a Chartered Architect who recently returned to practice after a long break. They discuss Ann's experiences and challenges upon reentering the world of architecture, the changes she has noticed in communication modes, document management, planning process, and more. The discussion extends to the importance of continual learning, forming partnerships, aligning visions, and recommendations for those considering a similar transition in their careers. Today's Guest... Ann Vanner is a Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Architectural Technologists, a Chartered Architect, an academic, and a Living Future Accredited Professional. Ann’s starting point and approach to architecture is Practical Creativity. Her practical background spans over 20 years, in architectural practices in the UK and Germany. She brings an unconventional and unwavering passion for the built environment and a desire to make a positive change in the environment and for those who she works with. Ann has recently returned to practicing architecture. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:52 Meet the Guest: Ann Vanner 01:51 Ann's Personal Interests: Sailing 03:14 Returning to Practice: The Decision 05:50 Changes in Architecture Practice: Planning Process 08:00 Changes in Communication and Document Management 13:27 The Importance of Continuous Learning 15:03 The Benefits of Partnership in Practice 19:03 Tips for Starting a Partnership 25:04 Advice for Returning to Practice 29:26 Connecting with Ann Online 29:54 Closing Remarks and Preview of Next Episode Key Takeaways... 👉 If you're thinking about returning to practice or starting a practice, know that it's a learning process. Don't be afraid of this; embrace it. Being able to adapt to new technology (like email and YouTube tutorials) and being open to learning new skills can significantly ease the transition. 👉 Communication methods have changed significantly, email and different digital communication methods are central now. Managing the information flow through these channels can take time and patience, but maintaining proper documentation and communication is key in any business. 👉 When starting a partnership-based business, ensure that there's alignment between the partners on the vision, mission, and values of the practice. Have open and honest discussions and regularly check-in with one another to keep the alignment. 👉 Running a personal practice or starting a partnership based business gives you the freedom to create a work environment that suits your preferences and lifestyle. It can be more fulfilling and can bring a new spark of enthusiasm to your career. 👉 Document management techniques have changed over time. Modern practices tend to digitize their documents for easier management and tracking of project history. 👉 Continual learning is essential in architecture. The methods, tools, and technologies associated with architecture are always changing, so continuous learning is crucial to keep up-to-date and remain competent in the field. 👉 Balancing your strengths and weaknesses with your partner can lead to a more effective and productive partnership. Be aware of your strengths and lean on your partner for areas where you are weak. 👉 Finally, it's also crucial to make brave moves when needed. If you have an aspiration or a dream, such as reopening a practice or starting a new one, sometimes the best advice is to just do it. It may not be easy, and it may require a considerable amount of effort, but the rewards can be significant. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Habitat Architects Website > https://www.habitat-architects.co.uk/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon talks about quarterly planning and the benefits of planning your business year in quarters. | |||
| Bite-Sized Client Experiences (First Date Offers) with Laura Robinson | 011 | 11 Jan 2024 | 00:34:07 | |
In this episode, marketing mentor Laura Robinson explains the concept of 'First Date Offers'. These are short, chargeable, bite-sized experiences designed to attract potential clients and give them a taster of your high-priced services. Laura recommends creating a First Date Offer that's fun and comfortable for you to deliver, ensuring you avoid too broad a scope, follow up promptly, and limit its availability to create an urgent need. She also notes these offers are a low-risk way to differentiate your business in your industry and help you attract customers. Laura illustrates her concept with examples from multiple industries, including architecture. Today's Guest... Laura Robinson is a marketing mentor for expertise-based businesses. She has been working in marketing and copywriting for more than 14 years. In that time, she has helped hundreds of business owners create and sell online offers, and to make their online marketing more effective. She’s delivered masterclasses for Enterprise Nation, Membership Academy, and Andrew & Pete’s Atomic Community. She has also shared her expertise as a speaker at Erin Wong’s Momentum Day, and Atomicon, one of Europe’s largest business conferences. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:31 About the Host and the Show 00:54 Introducing the Guest: Laura Robinson 01:58 Laura's Unique Experience as a Marine Mammal Medic 03:37 Introduction to First Date Offers 03:49 The Concept and Creation of First Date Offers 05:17 Explaining Voxer and its Benefits 06:53 The Impact of First Date Offers on Business 08:28 Laura's Experience with Home Renovation and Architects 11:54 Brainstorming First Date Offers for Architecture Practices 20:22 Pricing and Pitfalls of First Date Offers 27:28 Summarising the Concept of First Date Offers 30:25 Laura's Favorite Place and Conclusion Key Takeaways... 👉 First Date Offers are small, chargeable, one-to-one experiences that you can offer potential clients. It has to be enjoyable for you, quick to deliver, provide value to your customers, and can lead to selling higher-priced services. 👉 First Date Offers act as a sample of what it is like to work with you and can lead to hiring you for more extensive services. It is recommended that the delivery method of this offer should mirror your standard mode of communication with clients. 👉 Pricing for your First Date Offers should be determined in such a way that there is no resentment from your side for delivering the service. Think creatively about how you make it easy for people to say yes to work with you. 👉 First Date Offers can help you filter the types of clients you'd like to work with more. 👉 For your First Date Offers to be successful, it's crucial to stay within a narrow scope. Trying to offer too much within this set time can leave all parties feeling dissatisfied. 👉 Follow up after the First Date Offer is essential because it helps you to stay in touch with the client who might become a higher-paying customer in the future. 👉 In terms of availability, these offers should be limited in order to generate some sense of urgency in the customers. 👉 The First Date Offer shouldn't be about buying a certain amount of time but about getting a particular problem solved or a question answered. It's not reliant on the time taken but about delivering value to the client. 👉 Ensure the First Date Offer is something that appeals to the type of client you want to attract. This can help you shape your business to only work with clients who you feel you would enjoy working with. Links Mentioned In The Episode... If you're running a business that needs to fit around your other life challenges, priorities, and adventures...sign up for Laura’s free Comfy Business Newsletter at http://worditude.co.uk/newsletter Laura’s Website > http://worditude.co.uk/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Architect and Architectural Technologist, Ann Vanner, about her experience of returning to practice. | |||
| Why You Should Think More Like A CEO with Janet Murray | 010 | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:42:16 | |
In this episode, Jon discusses the CEO mindset with Janet Murray, an online business strategist and copywriter. They delve into why many small business owners or practitioners behave more like freelancers rather than CEOs. Janet highlights how tracking data, developing business skills, and creating commercially viable services or products are key components of CEO thinking. She emphasises having a forward planning strategy, sales skills, and the confidence to assert the value of one's services. Today's Guest... Janet Murray is an online business strategist & copywriter. She’s the creator of the 2024 Courageous CEO Strategic Business Planner & Resource Kit (along with a whole host of content kits that save time on content planning/creation) - and the host of the Courageous CEO podcast. Janet has been podcasting for around a decade and has published more than a thousand podcast episodes. As a copywriter, Janet specialises in creating - and writing strategic copywriting campaigns. Strategic copywriting is about publishing the right content at the right time to achieve a specific goal - which is why it’s typically more effective than other approaches to content. She’s also a keynote speaker who has spoken on big stages all over the world including The Youpreneur Summit (London), CMA Live (Edinburgh), and Inbound (Boston, USA). Janet plays the piano, sings, runs, and talks to her 3 cats (although not at the same time). She’s also the mum of a teenage daughter and is a long-suffering ‘football widow’. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:50 Getting to Know Janet Murray 01:52 Janet's Unique Journey: Starting a Choir in 30 Days 04:18 The Importance of CEO Mindset in Small Business 07:04 The Difference Between Freelancers and CEOs 09:34 The Power of Strategic Planning and Data Tracking 13:52 Understanding Commercial Viability and Value 17:14 The Role of Confidence and Expertise in Business 18:46 The Power of Saying No and Understanding Your Value 19:27 Janet's Strategic Business Planner and Resource Kit 41:12 Closing Remarks and Future Episode Teaser Key Takeaways... 👉 Small business owners should adopt a CEO mindset to strategically steer their business. This involves setting clear annual and quarterly financial targets, understanding important sales periods, and having a data-driven approach to business growth. 👉 Understanding and harnessing the value of your business is crucial. This could be honing in on unique selling points of the business, establishing effective systems, or creating assets that generate recurring income. 👉 Being able to effectively communicate the value of your product or service is important. This includes being able to articulate the transformation your service provides and having the confidence to sell it. 👉 Not all business owners are CEOs, but thinking like a CEO can help to grow a business. For the business to be deemed a business, it should have the potential to operate even without the presence of the owner. 👉 Pricing should reflect the value and transformation a product or service offers, not just the time it takes to deliver it. Professionals should be confident in their pricing and not underestimate their worth. 👉 Instead of trying to do everything, focusing on the right marketing and sales activities that strategically align with business goals will drive success. If a business owner needs immediate income, they should consider tactics that yield short-term results, such as reaching out to potential clients directly. 👉 A successful business is not just about generating income, but also about creating a legacy or adding value to the market. Capturing important data and monitoring the business strategy can help achieve this. Links Mentioned In The Episode... USE COUPON CODE ‘JON97’ TO GET £50 OFF Janet’s 2024 Courageous CEO Strategic Business Planner & Resource Kit via the link below.👇 https://janetmurray.co.uk/courageous-ceo-planner-2024/ Janet’s Website ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Laura Robinson about bite-sized one-to-one experiences (called First Date Offers) that can lead your clients toward your higher-priced services. | |||
| Reflecting on Your Business: Preparing for the New Year | 009 | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:16:13 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, Jon encourages listeners to reflect on their past year in business and consider their business plans for the upcoming year. Highlighting the importance of setting an objective and assessing which actions led to successful results and which actions were detrimental. Jon discusses his personal achievements and challenges, highlighting his own goals for the year ahead. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:25 Reflecting on the Past Year 01:56 Identifying Achievements and Challenges 02:37 Overcoming Perfectionism 03:40 Setting Goals for the New Year 04:27 Choosing a Theme or Word for the Year 05:56 Planning for Business Growth 07:51 Understanding the Difference Between Goals and Tasks 10:53 Creating an Annual Plan for Your Business 14:12 Planning in Quarters 14:55 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode Key Takeaways... 👉 Reflect on your previous year: Take the time to look back and reflect on what worked well and what didn't. Make course corrections if necessary. 👉 Set clear goals: Define your objectives for the year and set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. 👉 Embrace imperfection: Avoid being a perfectionist and instead focus on progress. It's better to take action and make improvements later. 👉 Seek growth opportunities: Continuously strive for personal and professional growth. Look for ways to expand your knowledge, reach new audiences, and increase your income. 👉 Break down tasks: When planning, distinguish between goals, projects, and tasks. Break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to stay organised and productive. 👉 Consider quarterly planning: Break down your yearly goals into quarterly sprints. Quarterly planning allows for course corrections and helps you stay focused throughout the year. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Andrew & Pete > https://www.andrewandpete.com/ Chris Ducker > https://chrisducker.com/ Mike Cole > https://thismikecole.com/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with online business strategist and copywriter, Janet Murray about how to think more like a CEO. | |||
| Christmas Tales Of Architecture Past, Present and Future | 008 | 21 Dec 2023 | 00:17:03 | |
In this festive edition of Architecture Business Club, host Jon takes listeners on a journey revisiting the Christmases of his past, present, and future as a practitioner in the field of architecture. He shares amusing anecdotes of the wild office Christmas parties from the late '90s and early 2000s, contrasts them against his current quieter festivities as a sole practitioner, and outlines his hopeful aspirations for the future. The podcast aims to build a community of solo and small firm architecture practitioners, offering them support, cheerleading, and opportunities to share their experiences. Jon also teases what listeners can expect from the podcast in 2024. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:34 Christmas Parties in the Past 03:17 Christmas Gifts and Secret Santa 04:13 Christmas Party Gossips 06:45 Christmas Party Memories 11:30 Christmas Celebrations in 2023 14:12 Christmas Plans for the Future 16:10 Conclusion and Farewell Key Takeaways... 👉 Christmas parties and socialising with colleagues can be important. It builds relationships and fosters a sense of community in the industry. 👉 Giving a Christmas bonus, even a small one, can help staff feel valued and appreciated. This reinforces the idea that small gestures can have a significant impact on employee morale and satisfaction. 👉 Christmas celebrations have changed over the years and can be very different depending on whether you are a sole practitioner or work with a team. If you’ve recently become a sole practitioner try to adapt and find new ways to celebrate. ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon reflects on the past year and shares his thoughts on planning the year ahead to set yourself up for success. He also teases what’s coming up in 2024. | |||
| How To Find, Hire & Retain Great Architectural Staff with Stephen Drew | 007 | 14 Dec 2023 | 00:40:53 | |
Jon talks to Stephen Drew, the founder of Architecture Social and Interior Design Social, about the challenges of finding, hiring, and retaining great architectural staff. Stephen enlightens listeners about the importance of creating engaging job adverts that go beyond listing required skills, and instead paint a vibrant picture of the company culture. He advises businesses to be agile, and transparent about their financial situation, and to constantly engage with employees about their professional goals. Stephen encourages companies to think from an employee's perspective and leverage their unique strengths, like flexibility and opportunities for more hands-on experience, which are particularly attractive to candidates. He also highlights the cost-saving advantage of employee referrals and the importance of fostering relationships with local universities for potential new hires. Today's Guest... Stephen Drew is the Founder of the Architecture Social and Interior Design Social as well as an ambassador for the Architect's Benevolent Society, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and a professional member of the Recruitment Employment Confederation and the Association Of Professional Staffing Companies. Architecture Social has a fresh spin on an old formula by breaking down traditional barriers between companies and creatives, providing a supportive environment to develop professional skills, find new jobs, and socialise. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:57 Guest Introduction: Stephen Drew 01:40 Personal Interactions and Casual Conversation 03:31 Stephen Drew's Journey into Recruitment 05:46 Challenges and Solutions in Recruitment 08:22 Mistakes Employers Make in Recruitment 08:35 Effective Job Advertisements and Hiring Strategies 15:18 The Importance of Respect and Communication in Hiring 19:00 Salary Transparency in Job Advertisements 21:46 Understanding the Market and Setting Salaries 22:38 Balancing Business Needs and Employee Expectations 23:29 The Importance of Flexibility and Progression in Retaining Staff 25:32 The Art of Negotiation and Counter Offers 28:40 The Role of Flexibility and Experience in Attracting Candidates 31:49 Advice for Sole Practitioners on Their First Hire 34:18 The Importance of Practice and Comparison in the Hiring Process 34:42 Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections Key Takeaways... 👉 Putting thought into the job description and the portrayal of your firm can significantly impact the number of quality candidates you attract. 👉 Be clear about your expectations and honest about what you can offer. Create clear goals for potential hires to work towards and be open about salary discussions. 👉 Ensure that you're ready to make a decision when you start the interview process. 👉 Employees need to feel that they can progress in their roles and that their concerns are being listened to. 👉 Flexibility is vital in current times, so allowing options like remote working can contribute greatly to job satisfaction and staff retention. 👉 When it comes to sole practitioners hiring their first team member, taking the time to establish connections with universities and job boards can open up a pool of eligible candidates. 👉 Avoid rushing the hiring process to ensure you find the right fit for your practice. 👉 Your job ads should focus on selling your firm as a great place to work rather than just listing what you want in an employee. Be upfront about both your expectations and what you're offering. 👉 Mention the benefits that you offer, like flexibility and opportunities for professional development to make your firm more appealing to potential hires. 👉 Staying engaged with your staff, setting clear goals for them, and providing them with opportunities to learn and grow can help keep them motivated and loyal to your firm. 👉 Be open about salary conversations and be agile to adapt your strategies based on the current market conditions. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Architecture Social's Website > https://architecturesocial.com ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon takes a trip down memory lane and shares a lighthearted look at his Christmas past, present, and future working in architecture. | |||
| Building Your Personal Brand as an Architecture Practice Owner with Bob Gentle | 006 | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:33:41 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton invites Bob Gentle to speak about the importance of personal branding for architecture practice owners. Bob is known for helping business leaders all over the world build their online presence and grow their businesses. They discuss the fear factor of being visible in the social media scene and the key advantages of having a personal brand. Bob shares the concept of content creation as an investment and how its long-term benefits include building industry authority and creating opportunities for sales conversations. Today's Guest... Bob Gentle works with leaders at every stage of business to help them step out in front of their marketing with a powerful personal brand. He does this through his podcast, youtube channel, coaching, masterminds & consulting. His mission?.. Helping business leaders around the world discover, set and achieve their goals online - then build a business they love. Bob is also the author of : ‘The Personal Brand Business Roadmap ~ Everything you need to start, scale or just fix your Expert Business.’ Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Personal Branding 00:56 Guest Introduction: Bob Gentle 01:58 Getting to Know Bob: Personal Interests 03:30 Understanding Personal Branding 04:44 The Impact of Personal Branding on Business 05:05 Challenges in Marketing for Architecture Practices 12:01 The Power of Personal Branding in Business Growth 17:43 Overcoming Fear in Personal Branding 20:48 Effective Content Creation for Personal Branding 24:23 The Long-Term Benefits of Personal Branding 31:30 Connecting with Bob Gentle 32:37 Preview of Next Episode and Closing Remarks Key Takeaways... 👉 A personal brand is essential for individuals and can have a significant impact on building a successful business. By intentionally cultivating and amplifying their personal brand, architecture business owners can differentiate themselves from their competitors and attract more opportunities. 👉 Many architecture practices rely heavily on referrals for winning work. While referrals are valuable, Bob suggests that combining them with other marketing strategies, such as content creation and building an audience through social media, can lead to greater growth and specialisation in the industry. 👉 Bob addresses the fear of visibility that many individuals have when it comes to personal branding. He encourages people to understand their fears, write them down, and gradually desensitize themselves to overcome these fears. 👉 It’s important to create valuable and diverse content to engage with your audience. Bob advises against being repetitive and suggests incorporating different dimensions of your life into your content, such as personal interests and experiences. 👉 By positioning yourself as an industry authority and providing valuable content, you can establish a strong bond with your audience and make it a no-brainer for them to choose you over your competitors. 👉 Embrace criticism and the fact that not everyone will like your personal brand. It's okay to repel some people because it allows you to attract the right audience and makes decision-making easier for potential clients. 👉 Personal branding can help architecture business owners grow beyond their local areas and limitations. By establishing a globally amplified personal brand, individuals can gain visibility outside their catchment areas and open doors to specialised projects and opportunities. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Get Bob’s Personal Brand Business Roadmap https://amplifyme.agency/roadmap Bob’s Website > Amplifyme.agency ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon will be chatting with Stephen Drew of Architecture Social about how to find, hire, and retain great architectural staff. | |||
| Leveraging LinkedIn for Architecture Business Growth with Sarah Clay | 005 | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:23:39 | |
In this episode of the Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton discusses LinkedIn strategies for business growth with social media strategist Sarah Clay. They dissected common misconceptions about LinkedIn, emphasizing its role as a search engine and networking tool, not just a social media platform. Sarah highlighted the importance of showcasing the team and process behind architecture projects on LinkedIn, not just completed works. She affirmed the benefits can include expanding networks, identifying industry trends, and understanding audience needs. Today's Guest... Sarah Clay is a LinkedIn trainer to B2C and B2B companies as well as solopreneurs, who offers a no-nonsense, accessible approach to her teaching whilst injecting some fun into learning. Sarah’s specialism is working with entrepreneurs and business owners to help them get more leads from LinkedIn. An award-winning social media trainer and strategist, Sarah has over 10 years’ experience heading up marketing and PR departments. Sarah ran her own social media agency ‘Sarah Clay Social’ looking after social media for all sizes of business before focusing on training business owners how to love and leverage LinkedIn to accelerate their business growth. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:58 Getting to Know Sarah Clay 02:48 Debunking LinkedIn Myths 04:19 How Architects Can Leverage LinkedIn 06:42 Benefits of Being Active on LinkedIn 09:26 Exploring LinkedIn's Search Feature 10:49 Intermission and Reminder to Subscribe 11:10 Practical Use of LinkedIn's Search Feature 14:47 Three Steps to LinkedIn Success 17:09 Overcoming Fear of LinkedIn 17:52 Sarah's Home Renovation Experience 21:03 Sarah's Favorite Place in the World 22:13 Contact Details and Closing Remarks 22:41 Preview of Next Episode and Farewell Key Takeaways... 👉 LinkedIn is more than just a social media platform. It is a search engine, a directory, and a networking tool. It can be leveraged by architecture practices to find collaborators, connect with potential clients, and stay updated on industry trends. 👉 Architectural practices should showcase not only their work but also their personalities on LinkedIn. Sharing personal stories, talking about why they love what they do, and highlighting their team members can help build trust with clients and differentiate themselves from competitors. 👉 The search bar on LinkedIn is a powerful tool that can be used to find specific individuals or companies with expertise in certain areas, such as energy efficiency. By using relevant keywords and filtering by location, architects can connect with the right people for their projects. 👉 To succeed on LinkedIn, architecture practice owners should focus on three key steps: optimize their profile with keywords, consistently post valuable content, and actively engage with others using the search bar. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Sarah Clay’s Website > https://sarahclaysocial.com/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon will be chatting with Bob Gentle about building your personal brand. | |||
| Create Engaging Videos Fast: AI Content Creation Tools with Ian Anderson Gray | 040 | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:46:05 | |
Jon is joined by Ian Anderson Gray, founder of the Confident Live Marketing Academy, to discuss how architecture practice owners can effectively use video as part of their marketing strategy. They delve into important strategies, AI tools for content creation, and tips to overcome the fear of being on camera. Ian also shares his experience and passion for music, and the episode explores the benefits of video marketing, the pros and cons of live versus pre-recorded video, and the concept of content repurposing. For those feeling time-poor, Ian provides practical advice and tool recommendations to streamline the video content creation process. Today's Guest... Ian is the founder of the Confident Live Marketing Academy and host of the Confident Live Marketing and Smart ADHD podcasts. He helps entrepreneurs to level up their impact, authority, and profits by using live video confidently. He's the founder of Seriously Social - a blog focused on live video and social media tools. He’s an international speaker, trainer, teacher and consultant. He has a passion for making the techno-babble of live video and social media marketing easy to understand. As well as being a geek, husband, and dad to two kids, Ian is also a professional singer and lives near Manchester in the UK. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:32 Meet Ian Anderson Gray 04:13 The Importance of Video for Architecture Practices 07:57 Live vs. Pre-recorded Videos 13:07 Content Repurposing Explained 16:22 AI Tools for Content Creation 24:45 Tool for Short Form Videos 25:30 Descript and Opus Clip: A Comparison 26:45 AI Tools: Pitfalls and Best Practices 29:51 Using AI to Enhance Creativity 33:00 Content Repurposing Example 36:46 Cost and Time Efficiency in Content Creation 39:21 Final Thoughts and Advice 42:33 Favorite Travel Destinations 44:27 Connecting with Ian Anderson Gray 44:55 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview Key Takeaways... Start Small and Build Gradually: - Ian advises starting with simple tasks and expanding over time. This approach prevents overwhelm and allows gradual improvement and scaling. He emphasises getting started and overcoming perfectionism, especially by using interviews, which are easier than monologues. Leverage AI Tools for Efficiency: - AI tools like Descript, ChatGPT, and Opus Clip can significantly streamline the content creation process. These tools help with transcribing, editing, generating show notes, and creating short-form content. However, it's crucial to use AI responsibly by refining outputs to ensure they match your voice and brand, turning AI into a valuable assistant rather than a crutch. Repurpose Content: - Repurposing content maximises the value derived from a single piece of content. By starting with a video, you can efficiently create various content formats like podcasts, blog posts, social media updates, and more. The key is to develop a system for repurposing that fits within your resource constraints and gradually increase the breadth of content repurposing as you become more comfortable with the process. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Ian on Facebook > https://www.facebook.com/iagdotme Ian on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianandersongray/ Visit Ian’s Website > https://iag.me/ —-- 👇 Book a chat with Jon to explore working 1-2-1 with him 📞 https://tidycal.com/mrjonclayton/quick-chat —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint 👇 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 https://chat.whatsapp.com/BtFJsJF6iL37vUb5tHNpkI 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon shares how he’s been working directly with small practice leaders and sole practitioners so that they can achieve their goals. | |||
| Starting Your Architecture Side Hustle (How & Why I Did It) | 004 | 23 Nov 2023 | 00:14:54 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon discusses starting his own architectural design side hustle in 2010. He takes us through his motivation for starting a side business, shares details about the challenges he faced including dealing with job insecurity due to redundancy and his drive to create a location-independent business. Jon provides insights on how he got off the ground with consultations, grant funding opportunities, and forming a business plan. He also highlights the importance of having a proper presence for the business and a great online presence. In the latter part of the episode, he provides advice for those thinking of pursuing a similar path about avoiding perfectionism, understanding their motivations, and advice on possible conflicts of interest with current employers. The episode concludes with Jon sharing his lessons learned and answering key considerations for anyone thinking about starting an architecture side hustle. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:08 Understanding Side Hustles 01:32 Why Start a Side Hustle? 03:20 Starting the Side Hustle Journey 07:35 Overcoming Perfectionism and Launching the Business 10:31 Reflections and Lessons Learned 12:37 Tips for Starting a Side Hustle 13:50 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes Key Takeaways... 👉 Starting a side hustle in architecture can provide additional income and flexibility. 👉 Side hustles are usually extra jobs or small businesses done outside of a regular job. 👉 Starting a side hustle can be motivated by factors like job insecurity, the desire for location independence, and the need for extra money. 👉 To start a side hustle, it is important to have a plan and consider factors like business goals, products/services, competition, and financial forecasts. 👉 Seeking advice from professionals, such as mentors, accountants, and insurance brokers, can be beneficial when starting a side hustle. 👉 Establishing a virtual office, creating a website, and setting up business listings are important steps to establish a presence for the side hustle. 👉 It is important to consider why you are starting a side hustle and whether you want it to remain a small venture or grow into a larger business. 👉 Contingency plans should be considered in case the side hustle grows more quickly than expected or takes up more time. 👉 Finding a niche and being clear about who you want to serve can help differentiate the side hustle and attract the desired types of projects. 👉 Connecting with professionals, peers, and industry organisations can provide valuable advice and support for running a side hustle in architecture. Free Places To List Your Business Online Apple Maps > https://businessconnect.apple.com/ Bing Places > https://www.bingplaces.com/ Free Index > https://www.freeindex.co.uk/advertise.htm Thomson Local > https://www.thomsonlocal.com/product/freelisting Yell > https://www.yell.com/free-listing/ Yelp > https://business.yelp.com/advertise/free-online-business-advertising/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon chats with award-winning social media trainer and strategist, Sarah Clay about how architecture practices can leverage LinkedIn to accelerate their business growth. | |||
| How You Can Help The Show [Bonus] | 22 Nov 2023 | 00:03:56 | |
In this bonus episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon expresses his appreciation for the successful launch of the show which is designed for solo and small firm architecture practice owners. He thanks everyone involved in the show's creation and listeners for their support. To further help the show, he encourages his audience to leave a positive review on Podchaser. Episode Highlights... 0:00 Introduction to the Bonus Episode 00:52 Gratitude for Successful Podcast Launch 01:27 How to Support the Show 01:37 Step-by-Step Guide to Leaving a Review on Podchaser 02:56 Importance of Your Support 03:26 Connecting with the Host on Social Media 03:38 Closing Remarks and Encouragement Podchaser Architecture Business Club’s Podchaser Page https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/architecture-business-club-5485140 How To Leave A Review On Podchaser (step-by-step guide) https://support.podchaser.com/en/articles/4923543-rating-and-reviewing-podcasts-and-episodes ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... | |||
| What’s Coming Up On The Show [Bonus] | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:03:22 | |
Upcoming Exciting Episodes on Architecture Business Club - Next time Jon talks about side hustle architectural services. In future episodes Jon interviews experts such as Sarah Clay, a social media strategist, and Bob Gentle, a digital marketing and personal brand coach. Founder of Architecture Social, Stephen Drew, also shares his insights from the world of architectural recruitment. Furthermore, Jon invites listeners to suggest topics and guests and apply to be guests themselves. He encourages reviews on Podchaser to boost discoverability of the podcast and engagement on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. Guest's Coming Soon... Bob Gentle > https://amplifyme.agency/ Sarah Clay > https://sarahclaysocial.com/ Stephen Drew > https://architecturesocial.com/ Episode Highlights... 00:01 Introduction and Welcome 00:24 About the Host and How to Stay Connected 00:42 Upcoming Episodes Teaser 01:04 Guest Interviews Preview 02:04 Invitation for Guest Suggestions and Participation 02:18 How to Contact the Host 02:31 Appreciation and Review Request 02:53 Connecting on Social Media 03:05 Final Thoughts and Sign Off ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... | |||
| Thank You To Everyone Who Helped Create The Architecture Business Club Podcast [Bonus] | 18 Nov 2023 | 00:05:11 | |
In this short bonus episode, host Jon thanks numerous individuals and communities for their support in creating the 'Architecture Business Club'. From tutorial influencers, such as Mark Asquith who provided a crucial podcast launch accelerator course, to organisations that posted a press release, like CIAT and Designing Buildings, every shout-out offers a snapshot of the hard work that goes into making a podcast. Special thanks go to his first three guests, Linden Dover, Janine Coombs, and Kris Baxter. The episode concludes with a thanks to followers for their positive reception and a shout out to his wife Jo for her patience and support. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:53 Acknowledging the Support Teams 01:05 Appreciation for Training and Courses 01:35 Gratitude for Personal Support 02:22 Thanking the Communities 02:53 Acknowledging the Writing Club 03:19 Appreciation for Press Coverage 03:39 Thanking the First Guests 04:07 Gratitude for Social Media Support 04:20 Special Thanks to Family 04:28 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Podcasting Resouces Captivate > https://www.captivate.fm/ Colin Gray > https://www.thepodcasthost.com/ Descript > https://www.descript.com/ Mark Asquith > https://www.markasquith.com/ Podcast Launch Accelerator > https://www.captivate.fm/courses/the-podcast-launch-accelerator Squadcast > https://squadcast.fm/ Supportive People Andrew & Pete > https://www.andrewandpete.com/ Chris Ducker > https://www.chrisducker.com/ Danielle Hone > https://therealmee.com/ Mike & Liz Cole > https://thismikecole.com/ Rachel Extance > https://rachelextance.com/ Trevor Smith > https://www.trevorsmith.design/ Awesome Communities Atomic > https://atomic.site/ CIAT > https://architecturaltechnology.com/ Cole Collective > https://thismikecole.com/cole-collective/ Rachel’s Writing Club > https://rachelextance.com/rwc/ Youpreneur > https://youpreneur.com/ Press Coverage CIAT Designing Buildings (Guest Editor) Designing Buildings (Podcast Lauch) https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Podcast_launched_by_Chartered_Architectural_Technologist Lynn News https://www.lynnnews.co.uk/news/west-norfolk-man-launches-podcast-to-help-other-companies-9338920/ Podcasting Today https://podcastingtoday.co.uk/new-architecture-podcast-launched-to-help-architects-grow-business/ First 3 Guests… Janine Coombes > https://www.janinecoombes.co.uk Kris Baxter (of Studio 11 Architecture) > https://www.studio11architecture.co.uk/ Linden Dover (of Weaver) > https://www.weaver.build/architects ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... | |||
| Business Coaching: Transforming Your Architecture Practice With Kris Baxter | 003 | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:26:53 | |
In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, Jon discusses with Kris Baxter the role of business coaching in transforming architectural practices. Kris, a Chartered Architectural Technologist and founder of Studio 11 Architecture, shares his own experiences with business coaching. He recounts how coaching focused on his personal development, which reflected positively on his business. Looking within, Kris changed the direction of his firm to align it with his personal goals, aspirations, and happiness rather than just creating another job. Their discussion highlights the significance of self-awareness, adaptability in dealing with people, and setting personal end goals for successful business ownership and positive transformation. Today's Guest... Kris is a Chartered Architectural Technologist and the founder of Studio 11 Architecture. A collective of creative designers that produce distinctive, functional architecture across the UK. The team specialise in bespoke home design, has won a string of awards, and had their work featured on the UK's most popular property design show. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:44 Introduction to Guest Kris Baxter 01:17 Personal Interests and Hobbies 01:50 Understanding Business Coaching 02:17 Kris's Business Before Coaching 05:42 The Impact of Coaching on Kris's Personal Life 05:57 Misconceptions about Business Coaching 07:54 First Coaching Session Experience 15:27 Impact of Coaching on the Architecture Business 21:02 Advice for Those Considering Coaching 25:15 Podcast Wrap-up and Contact Information Key Takeaways... 👉Business coaching can have a profound impact on both the personal and professional aspects of a business owner's life. 👉Owning a business should align with your end goals and aspirations, otherwise, it can feel like just going to work. 👉Self-reflection and self-awareness are important in understanding one's behavior and how it affects day-to-day interactions with staff and clients. 👉Effective communication and adaptability are crucial skills for success in business. 👉Finding a coach who works well with you and understands the specific needs of your business is essential. 👉Having clear end goals for your business allows you to make strategic decisions and navigate challenges. 👉Being open-minded, seeking advice from others, and learning from different sources can lead to new insights and opportunities. 👉Building a team that enjoys their work and aligns with the goals of the business can contribute to its success. 👉Don't compare yourself to other architectural practices, focus on what you do well and stick with it. 👉Taking time for self-reflection and resetting can help in planning for the future and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Studio 11 Architecture > https://www.studio11architecture.co.uk/ ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon talks about side hustle architectural services and shares a bit about how and why he started his own side hustle. | |||
| A Different Approach To Pricing & Positioning Architectural Services with Janine Coombes | 002 | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:34:54 | |
In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton speaks with service positioning expert, Janine Coombes, to discuss different approaches to pricing and positioning architectural services. Acknowledging common charging methods such as percentage of build costs, fixed price, or by the hour, they address the potential of learning from other service sectors. Janine stresses the importance of selling the benefit rather than the service. She urges architectural service providers to emphasize the outcome of their work rather than the service itself. They also delve into the concept of 'niching', carving out a specific corner of the marketplace to establish a unique proposition. The episode also broaches the delicate topic of handling pricing proposals. Today's Guest... Janine Coombes is a service positioning expert who helps coaches and consultants to earn drastically more from their 1:1 services without slogging their guts out or moving to a more complicated business model. She has an extensive background in business and marketing including working with big brands like EE, Orange, and Europcar. Janine also has a business degree, a post-graduate marketing diploma (CIM Dip) and for the last 7 years has been helping small, service-based business owners to position and sell their offers. She regularly speaks on stages like Atomicon, You Are The Media, and MarketEd.Live. She’s a skilled writer and one of the most creative content creators out there. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction to Architectural Services Pricing 00:27 About the Host and the Show 00:59 Introduction to Guest Speaker - Janine Coombes 01:12 Janine's Background and Expertise 02:01 Janine's Unusual Hobby 03:00 Pricing Strategies for Architectural Services 03:28 The Importance of Positioning and Niching 03:35 Common Mistakes in Pricing Services 06:38 How to Present Services to Potential Clients 11:02 The Art of Sending a Fee Proposal 26:49 The Benefits of Niching 30:49 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up 33:41 Preview of the Next Episode 34:02 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Key Takeaways... 👉Pricing architectural services: Consider a different approach to pricing and positioning architectural services beyond charging by the hour or percentage of bill costs. Sell the benefit and focus on the end result. Position yourself in a specific corner of the marketplace to stand out and avoid being seen as a commodity. 👉Presenting services: Be clear on who you want to work with and identify the types of projects and personalities that you enjoy working with. Promote yourself based on the end result and create a unique proposition to attract clients. 👉Fee proposals: Take the time to have conversations with potential clients before sending out a fee proposal. Gather information, understand their needs and motivations, and then present the proposal in person or on a video call. Reiterate the benefits of your services before mentioning the price. 👉Niching: Explore niching in architectural services by creating different offers for specific target markets. You can have a range of services for different people, each with a sharp target market. This allows you to cut through the competition, be more competitive on price, and become known for your expertise. 👉Confidence in pricing: Look at what other businesses are charging for similar services and recognize that you provide more value and care than they do. Associate your price with the benefit you bring to clients' lives. Consider incremental price increases after each successful project. 👉Understanding clients: Take the time to understand your clients' motivations, why they want to undertake a project, and the consequences of not doing it. Explore what's at stake for them and how motivated they are to take action before entering into the sales process. 👉Referrals: Aim to get referrals from the right kind of clients. It's rare to have pure referrals that perfectly align with your ideal client, but focusing on your target market and providing exceptional service can lead to better-quality referrals over time. 👉Standing out: Niche your services to stand out from the competition. Create offers that are targeted and crystal clear in their messaging. Put yourself in a specific market segment, whether it's domestic or commercial work, and focus on that area while still offering a variety of services. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Janine’s Website > https://www.janinecoombes.co.uk ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time, Jon chats with Kris Baxter, founder of Studio 11 Architecture. Find out how business coaching transformed Kris' architectural practice and learn how coaching can have a profound impact not just on your business, but also on your personal growth as a business owner. You won't want to miss it! | |||
| Finding and Vetting Reliable Building Contractors with Linden Dover | 001 | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:30:34 | |
In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon Clayton talks with Linden Dover, co-founder and COO of Weaver, an online platform that assists architects and design professionals in finding, vetting, and hiring building contractors. Linden shares the rigorous three-step approach adopted by Weaver to vet contractors, emphasizing the importance of continual assessment. He also discusses his past experiences, specifically a 2016 instance regarding a rogue contractor that eventually led to the founding of Weaver. Ultimately, the continual vetting process maximises the chances of a successful match between a project and contractor and also ensures clients have a pleasant experience. Today's Guest... Linden Dover is an entrepreneur and seasoned property development professional with a deep-rooted passion for design, craftsmanship, and innovation. As the Co-Founder and COO of Weaver, an online platform connecting contractors to home renovation projects in the UK, he has cultivated a thriving network of trusted professionals. The platform, recognized and backed by influential industry leaders like BTOV, FJ Labs, and Atlassian Executives, stands as a testament to his commitment to elevating the construction and renovation industry. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:01 Meet the Guest: Linden Dover 01:57 Linden's Personal Journey and Relocation to Mallorca 03:02 The Birth of Weaver: A Story of Overcoming Challenges 06:55 The Weaver Vetting Process: Ensuring Quality Contractors 14:38 The Importance of Continual Assessment 16:47 The Two-Way Vetting Process: Ensuring Quality Projects 18:31 Tips for Finding the Right Contractor 23:09 The Importance of Respect and Communication in the Construction Industry 27:54 Linden's Favorite Place: A Hidden Gem in Mallorca 29:37 Conclusion and Farewell Key Takeaways... Do your due diligence: Don't just rely on looks or recommendations. Interrogate and thoroughly assess potential contractors. Visit ongoing projects: Whenever possible, go visit a project that the contractor is currently working on. This will give you a good sense of their workmanship and the way they conduct themselves on site. Verify credentials: Check if the contractor has the appropriate insurances and references for your specific type of project. Make sure they have the necessary experience and expertise. Get references and verify them: Reach out to past clients and ask them about their experience working with the contractor. Ask about their communication, timeliness, and ability to resolve disputes.
Continual assessment: Look for contractors who are continually assessed and have a good track record. Consider working with platforms or networks that provide ongoing evaluation and feedback. Consider specialization: If your project requires specific skills or expertise (e.g., sustainable design, unique materials), ensure that the contractor has experience in that area. Avoid solely focusing on price: While cost is an important factor, prioritize factors such as communication, timeliness, and overall fit for your project. Cheaper quotes may lead to unexpected costs and low-quality work. Provide feedback: Communicate with contractors and provide feedback on their performance. This helps them improve and ensures transparency. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Learn more about Weaver at… https://www.weaver.build/architects Linden’s LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/linden-dover-1b080315 Linden’s Email Address What To Do Next... Get Jon’s free weekly email newsletter (so you never miss an episode). https://mrjonclayton.co.uk/abc Leave a positive review to support the show. https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/architecture-business-club-5485140 Connect with Jon on LinkedIn (with a personalized connection request). https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ Find Jon on other social media platforms by searching for… @mrjonclayton Subscribe to Jon’s YouTube channel here. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGZOAac4salmSX0wWRT7JUg Visit Jon’s website here. In The Next Episode... Jon chats to Janine Coombes, a service positioning expert about how to better position your offers and feel confident in how much you charge. | |||
| Trailer - Why You Should Listen & Who I Am | 26 Sep 2023 | 00:01:37 | |
Architecture Business Club is for solo and small firm architecture business owners who want to build a profitable, future-proof architecture practice that both you and your clients love. It features weekly interviews with inspiring people from the world of architecture and business who share actionable tips to improve your own architecture business. Plus occasional solo episodes to share my own experiences in the industry. ----- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint ----- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... | |||
| Navigating Change in Architecture with Tom Lewith | 039 | 25 Jul 2024 | 00:46:59 | |
Jon speaks with Tom Lewith, a chartered architect and co-founder of New-works, about the challenges and transformations in the field of architecture. Tom discusses the closure of his previous practice, TDO, and the reasons behind starting New-works with a focus on specialisation, collaboration, wellbeing, and sustainability. They delve into the industry's pressing issues like climate change, mental health, the Building Safety Act, and the impact of AI. Tom shares insights on creating a structured and fulfilling workday, emphasising the need for specialisation and collaboration in architecture to handle these challenges. The conversation also touches upon personal passions and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. Today's Guest... Tom Lewith is a Chartered Architect and co-founder of New-works. Prior to New-works he co-founded and ran TDO, a leading all-services architecture studio. The success of the practice and its work led to Tom being named in The Architects’ Journal ‘40 under 40’, and the studio featuring in the Architecture Foundation’s ‘New Architects 3’. Big issues affecting the industry like climate change, mental health, AI, and the Building Safety Act demand fundamental change. So in 2024 Tom co-founded New-works to explore a new way of working based on the principles of specialism, collaboration, wellbeing and sustainability. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Meet Tom Lewith: Architect and Innovator 03:12 Tom's Journey into Architecture 04:34 The Rise and Fall of TDO 06:52 Challenges in the Architecture Industry 11:42 The Birth of New-works 16:52 Specialisation and Collaboration in Architecture 24:02 Stagnation in Architecture Practices 25:39 Embracing Change and Specialisation 27:02 The Power of Saying No 31:05 Introducing New-works 31:33 NewWorks' Unique Approach to Architecture 33:05 Structuring the Workday for Creativity 36:59 Reflecting on the Evolution of Work Practices 40:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 43:45 A Personal Favorite Place 45:03 Connecting with Tom Lewith Key Takeaways... Specialisation and Collaboration: - Tom Lewith's approach with New-works highlights the importance of focusing on what you are passionate about and specialising in your strengths. By concentrating on the early stages of architecture (from initial client engagement to early design), New-works creates space for creativity and efficiency. Collaborating with partners who excel in other stages of a project ensures that the entire process is handled by experts, leading to better outcomes and more sustainable practice. Structured Workday for Better Productivity: - Implementing a structured workday is crucial for maintaining productivity and mental health. New Works starts their day with non-work activities to prepare mentally and physically, then dedicates a specific time block (10 AM to 2 PM) for deep work without interruptions. This focused period allows for significant progress on creative tasks, followed by a more flexible part of the day for emails, meetings, and other communications. This balance helps reduce anxiety and ensure a productive and enjoyable workday. The Power of Saying “No”: - To create a sustainable and profitable architecture practice, it is essential to say "no" to projects and clients that do not align with your core strengths and passions. By focusing on what they do best, architects can deliver higher quality work and maintain their enthusiasm for their projects. Saying no also helps define your unique value proposition, making it easier to attract the right clients and opportunities that match your expertise. Links Mentioned In The Episode... Learn more about New Works > https://www.new-works.net/ Connect with Tom on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-lewith/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Ian Anderson Gray about why you should create videos and how to produce them quicker using AI tools. | |||
| Digital Marketing Essentials For Architecture Practices with Ayo Abbas | 038 | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:35:36 | |
Jon speaks with award-winning marketing consultant Ayo Abbas. They discuss the essentials and opportunities of digital marketing for small architecture firms. Ayo shares her extensive experience and success in using digital marketing to boost brand visibility and lead conversions. Key highlights include leveraging social media, understanding the importance of SEO, and creating an effective marketing strategy. The episode emphasises that small firms can compete effectively with the proper use of digital tools. Ayo also shares her passion for cooking and her favourite place. This episode is half of a two-part series, in collaboration with Ayo’s podcast, The Built Environment Marketing Show. Today's Guest... Ayo Abbas is an award-winning built environment marketing consultant. She has 23 years’ experience working across the real estate and construction sector for major firms. Ayo founded her own consultancy business Abbas Marketing offering B2B marketing strategy and content creation services. Ayo was named as the overall winner for the Digital Woman of the Year Awards 2022. She also hosts her own podcast The Built Environment Marketing Show that shines a spotlight on marketing best practice. In 2023, Ayo was honoured to be a RIBA London Awards judge and named as an architectural trailblazer by Architizer Magazine. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:55 Collaborative Podcasting 04:18 Diving into Digital Marketing Basics 08:42 Digital Marketing Myths 10:49 Opportunities For Architecture Practices 14:35 Targeted Advertising and Platform Insights 19:32 Leveraging LinkedIn for Architects 20:41 Exploring Other Social Media Platforms 21:24 Understanding SEO and Landing Pages 23:37 Email Marketing Strategies 24:13 The Power of Video Content and Webinars 27:05 Maximising Digital Marketing Efforts 31:38 Ayo's Favorite Place 33:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell Key Takeaways... The Importance of Digital Marketing for Small Practices: Digital marketing presents big opportunities for small architecture firms and sole practitioners to boost their brand visibility and generate leads cost-effectively. Leveraging digital platforms can help small firms compete with larger ones by strategically using tools like email marketing, social media, and search engine optimization (SEO). Strategic Planning and Execution: Having a clear digital marketing strategy is key. It helps businesses define their goals, target audience, and the best channels to use to reach them. Execution should be consistent, and small businesses should focus on platforms and methods that align with their strengths and resources. It's important to test different tactics and measure their effectiveness continuously. Leveraging Digital Platforms for Authentic Engagement: Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, as well as tools like webinars and podcasts, provide unique opportunities for professionals to connect authentically with their audience. Showing up consistently and engaging with potential clients on these platforms can significantly enhance brand recognition and trust, which are essential for business success. This episode is half of a two-part series, in collaboration with Ayo’s podcast, The Built Environment Marketing Show - LISTEN HERE 👇 https://www.abbasmarketing.com/mitc-podcast/small-practice-marketing Connect with Ayo on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoabbas/ Ayo’s Website > https://www.abbasmarketing.com/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Tom Lewith about the closure of his practice, TDO, and the formation of New-Works. | |||
| Building Connections: The Importance of Networking | 037 | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:18:01 | |
Jon discusses the significance of networking and attending in-person events such as conferences and workshops for solo and small firm architecture practice owners. He challenges common myths about networking, offers practical advice for introverts, and suggests strategies for making the most out of these events. Jon also highlights the benefits of meeting new people, gaining visibility, and building relationships, alongside alternative online options. He shares his personal experiences and announces his upcoming speaking engagement at London Build 2024, inviting listeners to join him at the event to learn, network, and socialise. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Why Networking Matters 02:15 Debunking Networking Myths 04:22 Alternatives to In-Person Networking 04:50 Personal Networking Experiences 06:27 Four Ways You Get Sales 08:15 Networking Tips for Introverts 09:57 A Strategic Approach To Networking & In-Person Events 12:12 Top Networking Recommendations 15:28 Upcoming Event: London Build 2024 16:53 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Key Takeaways... Importance of Networking: - Networking events and in-person interactions are critical for growth, as they provide opportunities for meeting potential clients, collaborators, and mentors. - Networking helps in gaining new ideas, discovering trends, building visibility, and enhancing credibility. Debunking Myths about Networking: - Networking is not just for extroverts; introverts can do it too! - Networking should not be approached with aggressive selling; the focus should be on listening and helping others. - It’s not necessary to attend every event regularly; attending selectively based on your goals can be effective. - Tangible results can arise from networking, and it should be viewed as more than a one-time event. Alternatives to In-Person Networking: - Online events and communities can be valuable substitutes when in-person attendance isn’t possible. - Building relationships online can still yield significant benefits, although in-person interactions often have a more substantial impact. Networking Tips for Introverts: - Start with smaller events. - Bring a friend for support. - Prepare in advance by researching other attendees. - Focus on listening more than talking. Strategies for Effective Networking: - Be authentic and true to yourself at networking events. - Follow up with new contacts to build lasting relationships. - Have a clear strategy and goals to measure the effectiveness of networking activities. Hosting Your Own Event: - If local events are unavailable, consider organizing your own meetups or workshops. - Events can be informal and simple, such as a gathering at a local café or pub. Upcoming Networking Opportunities: - Engage in larger industry events like London Build 2024 for extensive networking and learning opportunities. - Take advantage of casual meetups alongside formal events to build deeper connections. —-- Join me at London Build on Nov 20th & 21st at Olympia London. I'll be speaking at the Skills & Marketing Hub (at 10am on Nov 20th) and then hanging around for the rest of the event. We’ll also be hosting an evening meet-up at a nearby venue (details coming soon). Register your FREE tickets today at 👇 https://london-build-expo-2024.reg.buzz/jon-clayton #LondonBuild #LondonBuildSpeakerSpotlight —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Ayo Abbas about digital marketing. | |||
| Building A Creative Powerhouse with Bryon McCartney | 036 | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:48:02 | |
Jon chats with Brian McCartney, CEO of ArchMark Branding and Marketing for Architects. Bryon, who has founded five successful creative service firms, shares strategies for transforming architectural practices into creative powerhouses. They discuss the importance of strategic planning, the misconception about sales in architecture, and the benefits of community involvement for solo architects. Bryon also shares his personal and professional experiences, including his passion for photography and his journey in the business world. Today's Guest... Bryon McCartney is CEO at Archmark (* pronounced Ark-Mark) Branding and Marketing for Architects and a certified coach through Donald Miller’s Business Made Simple program. Bryon has helped 3,000+ architects increase their firm’s visibility and influence so they can win better projects. Bryon has travelled around the world and calls himself an ”Archi-Geek.” He has been featured on ArchDaily, ArchiBiz, Business of Architecture, Entrearchitect, Zweig Group, and many others. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Brian McCartney's Journey into Photography 04:35 Founding and Managing Creative Firms 10:05 Approaching New Ideas and Opportunities 17:25 Sales Strategies for Architects 22:50 The Importance of Strategic Planning 26:51 Client Success Stories 27:24 The Importance of Strategic Planning 28:01 Writing Effective Business Plans 29:21 Building Trust with Clients 29:51 Common Mistakes in Proposal Processes 32:14 Revamping the Sales Process 36:46 The Value of Community for Architects 39:55 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 43:08 Favorite Travel Destinations 45:27 Connecting on Social Media 46:56 Closing Remarks Key Takeaways... Importance of Trust in Client Relationships: Instead of sending proposals and hoping for a response, it's more effective to engage in a process that involves multiple interactions to build a rapport and understanding. Sales as Solutions: Architects should shift their perspective on sales. Instead of viewing it as a sleazy necessity, they should see it as an opportunity to provide solutions to clients' problems. Effective sales strategies focus on the clients' needs and how the service can meet those needs, rather than just the design aspect. Strategic Planning: Running a business without a plan leads to reactive management. Strategic planning helps set clear goals and benchmarks, giving a business purpose and direction. This process should be simple, systematic, and regularly revisited for continued success. Methodical Approach to Opportunities: Adopt a careful approach when considering new ideas or trends. Use the framework of Decide, Act, Learn, and Repeat to ensure that opportunities are thoroughly evaluated, implemented correctly, and adjusted based on outcomes. Community and Support: Being part of a community provides invaluable support. It offers a wealth of shared knowledge and resources that can help solve problems and foster a sense of belonging, particularly important for solo architects or small firms. Clarity and Communication: Ensure that all client-facing materials – from websites to proposals – clearly communicate how your work solves clients’ problems. This clarity builds trust and facilitates better client relationships. Lifecycle of Client Interaction: From project inquiries to retention, understanding and optimizing each stage of the client's journey is essential for sustained business success. This includes ensuring client satisfaction to encourage repeat business and referrals. Learning from Other Fields: Gaining insights from fields outside of architecture can offer new perspectives and solutions. Design involves understanding psychology, sociology, nature, and technology, so a broad perspective can enhance architectural creativity and business approaches. Value of Practical Tools: Tools and frameworks such as the Vision Traction Organizer from the Entrepreneurial Operating System can simplify strategic planning and ensure focus on business drivers that matter. Personal Growth and Business Success: Strategic planning and structured approaches can not only enhance business success but also positively impact personal well-being, as evidenced by clients who have achieved personal goals like weight loss through disciplined planning. Use Professional Networks: Use professional networks effectively, with platforms like LinkedIn offering valuable opportunities for connection and learning within the architecture community. Links Mentioned In The Episode... 👇Get your (free) Architecture Firm Website Health Report here… https://www.archmark.co/free-architecture-firm-website-audit Bryon’s Website > https://www.archmark.co Connect with Bryon on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/brilliantbryon —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon talks about in-person events and networking. | |||
| Outsourcing For Architects: Getting Started with Aya Shlachter | 035 | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:28:05 | |
Jon speaks with Aya Schlachter, CEO and founder of MGS Global Group. Aya shares insights on how architects can use outsourcing to enhance productivity, increase firm capacity, and improve their bottom line. The conversation covers key benefits such as flexibility, access to a wider talent pool, and strategic growth. Aya also debunks common myths about outsourcing, discusses best practices for working with outsourcing partners, and offers philosophical advice on staying open to new opportunities. The episode provides valuable guidance for small and solo architecture firm owners seeking to build a profitable, future-proof business. Today's Guest... Aya is the CEO and founder of MGS Global Group, a company that accelerates growth for architecture and design firms worldwide by providing architectural support and staffing services internationally. Her team provides Revit, ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, and 3D Visualization services to architects and interior designers. Aya is a keynote speaker and host of the Architect My Business Podcast – a business growth podcast for architects. She is a wife and mother of two, an avid traveler, a golfer, and a recreational triathlete who loves cooking and spending time outdoors. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Meet Aya Schlachter: CEO of MGS Global Group 01:51 The Benefits of Cold Plunging 04:40 Diving into Outsourcing: Why and How 06:43 Debunking Myths About Outsourcing 12:01 Choosing the Right Outsourcing Partner 14:18 Best Practices for Starting with Outsourcing 15:05 Flexible Outsourcing for Architects 16:58 Integrating Outsourcing Partners 21:21 Strategic Outsourcing for Business Growth 24:15 Final Thoughts on Outsourcing 26:07 Connecting with Aya and Jon Key Takeaways... Leverage Outsourcing for Growth: - Outsourcing can enhance productivity, increase capacity, and improve the bottom line for architecture firms. - It allows firms to scale up and down based on project needs, providing flexibility. - Access to a wider talent pool is a significant advantage. Debunking Outsourcing Myths: - Concerns about communication challenges are often unfounded; many outsourcing teams are proficient in English. - Outsourcing partners can research and learn local building codes and standards. - Ethical treatment of employees is a priority; outsourcing has positively impacted local economies. - Coordination can be effectively managed with technology, allowing for seamless integration. Choosing the Right Outsourcing Partner: - Referrals are beneficial for finding reliable outsourcing partners. - Review the online presence and leadership of potential partners to ensure credibility. - Look for content and participation in industry events as indicators of a proactive partner. Best Practices for Starting with Outsourcing: - Begin with small projects to test the compatibility and effectiveness of the outsourcing partner. - Flexible business models, such as project-based and contract-based arrangements, can accommodate varying needs. - Training and integration are crucial for smooth onboarding and collaboration. Integrating Outsourcing Partners: - Treat outsourcing teams as extensions of the internal team, fostering strong relationships. - Providing training and aligning with company culture can improve integration and performance. Strategic Outsourcing for Growth: - Outsourcing can help match workforce capacity with project pipelines, reducing wait times and mitigating risks. - It allows for entry into new markets and project types, leveraging diverse skills. - It's a lower-risk option for startups and small firms, avoiding long-term commitments and overhead costs. Mindset and Philosophy: - Success is decisions away, not years away. Entrepreneurs should remain open to new opportunities and technologies. - Continuous learning and adapting are essential in a fast-moving industry. Building Trust and Relationships: - Personal branding and visibility of the outsourcing partner build trust. - Strong communication and regular interactions help integrate the outsourcing team effectively. Flexibility and Support: - Offering flexibility in working hours and project management helps in aligning the outsourcing team with the firm's needs. - Providing perks and integrating the team into company events can foster a sense of belonging. Entrepreneurship Insights: - Stability in business can be achieved through smart decisions and hard work. - A long-term perspective and resilience are crucial for entrepreneurs. Links Mentioned In The Episode... MGS Global Group’s website > https://mgsglobalgroup.com/ Connect with Aya on LinkedIn > https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/ —-- 👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint —-- 👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁 https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. 👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at... https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/ In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with Brian McCartney about the key things he's learned from founding and managing five successful creative service firms. | |||
| CRM Essentials for Small Architecture Firms | 045 | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:15:32 | |
Jon discusses the importance and benefits of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for solo and small firm architecture practice owners. The episode covers the basics of CRM systems, their key features, and how they can help automate tasks, manage client communications, and streamline operations. Jon also offers advice on selecting the right CRM for different practice sizes and provides tips for successful implementation and consistent use. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Understanding CRM Systems 03:09 Benefits of CRM for Architecture Practices 04:44 Key Features to Look for in a CRM 06:02 Choosing the Right CRM for Your Practice 08:32 Implementing a CRM System Successfully 12:07 Optimising your CRM for Long-Term Success 13:30 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Key Takeaways... The Importance of CRM Systems: CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems are key for architecture practices, regardless of size. They help manage client relationships, streamline communications, and automate routine tasks, which is essential for maintaining strong relationships over long project timelines and improving overall efficiency. Key Features and Choosing the Right CRM: Not all CRMs are created equal, and it's important to choose one that fits the specific needs of your practice. Key features to look for might include project tracking, communication history, automation for repetitive tasks, and integration with other software like AutoCAD or Revit. The choice of CRM should consider factors such as the scale of projects, team size, budget, and specific business goals. Implementation and Optimisation: Successful implementation of a CRM involves setting clear goals, training your team, and ensuring accurate data migration. Consistent use and regular review of CRM data to identify trends can help refine processes over time. This consistent use is key to keeping sales and project pipelines full and moving, ultimately adding value to your practice. —-- Interested in working with Jon? 👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞 Resources… 👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). 👉 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. In The Next Episode... Next time Jon chats with architect, Doug Hodgson about mental health and wellbeing in architecture. | |||
| Mental Health and Wellbeing in Architecture with Doug Hodgson: Part 1 | 046 | 12 Sep 2024 | 00:30:01 | |
Jon interviews Doug Hodgson about balancing mental health and professional success in the high-pressure field of architecture. They discuss Doug's experiences and philosophies on workplace wellbeing, sustainability, and collaboration. Doug talks about the impact of his outdoor hobbies and the vital need for greater kindness and inclusion in the industry. The conversation highlights the mental health crisis in architecture, the overwhelming demands on professionals, and the toxic culture in architectural education and practice. Doug emphasises the importance of specialising and collaborating to maintain mental health and professional satisfaction. The episode aims to raise awareness and encourage discussions on improving mental health and wellbeing for architectural professionals. Today's Guest... Doug Hodgson is an Architect and leads the Retrofit agenda for New-works, a practice he co-founded to explore a new way of working, based on the principles of specialism and collaboration, wellbeing and sustainability - with a fundamental belief that wellbeing in the workplace generates better relationships and better architecture. Prior to New-works, Doug had co-founded TDO, was a Design Fellow at Cambridge University, and in 2020 was named in The Architects’ Journal 40 under 40. Doug is passionate about improving mental health and wellbeing, and has found from his own experience of being proudly openly gay that there’s an urgent need for greater kindness, understanding, and inclusion in the construction industry to make the profession more relevant. Episode Highlights... 00:00 Introduction 01:02 Meet Doug Hodgson: Redefining Workplace Wellbeing 02:11 The Allotment: A Sanctuary During COVID 05:40 Sustainability and Regenerative Materials in Architecture 06:39 The Mental Health Crisis in Architecture 12:02 The Impact of Architectural Education on Wellbeing 21:46 Specialisation and Collaboration: A New Approach 28:55 Next Steps Key Takeaways... Importance of Mental Health in Architecture: - The interview emphasises the critical state of mental health within the architecture profession. Jon and Doug discuss how overwhelming workloads, long hours, and unrealistic expectations can severely impact mental and physical well-being, leading to burnout. Need for Industry-wide Change: - To address the mental health crisis, a structural change is necessary within the profession and its education system. Doug highlights that the root of many mental health issues stems from the highly demanding and often abusive culture of architectural education. This oppressive environment is carried into professional practice, resulting in exploitative working conditions. Reform in both education and professional practices is needed. Specialisation and Collaboration: - Doug advocates for architects to specialise in areas they are passionate about and excel in, rather than trying to cover all aspects of a project. Collaborative efforts between specialised practices can lead to more effective and enjoyable work environments. This approach can help mitigate the overwhelming demands often placed on individual architects, contributing to better mental health and work-life balance. Links Mentioned In The Episode... —-- Interested in working with Jon? 👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞 Resources… 👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge). 👉 Join our (free) WhatsApp Discussion Group 🎁 👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. In The Next Episode... Hear the conclusion of Jon and Doug’s conversation. | |||