Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

• Where to Focus When You Need More Clients | 104

  Jon addresses what to do when facing a shortage of clients or work. He shares his personal story of recent hardships* and explains the common mistakes to avoid when trying to attract new clients. He provides practical advice for fast sales, focusing on hot leads, and high-touch outreach. Jon also emphasises the importance of asking for help and using available resources to manage cash flow issues. The episode concludes with recommendations for related podcast episodes that delve deeper into lead generation and sales strategies.* Trigger warning: between 01:43 to 02:22 Jon briefly mentions death and bereavement.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction01:28 Personal Struggles and Business Impact03:14 Common Mistakes When Seeking Clients05:04 Effective Strategies for Fast Sales05:38 Practical Tips for Faster Sales08:45 Recap and Additional Resources10:25 Closing Remarks and Call to Action—Key TakeawaysFocus on hot leads - When you need more clients, you should talk to people who already know you, like your past or current clients. They are more likely to work with you again.Try not to panic - If you feel worried because work is slow, try not to panic. Take a moment to calm down, then make a plan to help your business.Talk to someone - You do not have to do everything alone. If you need help, ask someone you trust or talk to a professional for advice.—Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝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.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon is joined by Daniel Patterson to explore how to double your profits (without hiring or spending more on marketing!).

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• Do Design Professionals Still Need To Know How To Sketch with David Drazil | 103

  Jon welcomes David Drazil, an architect, author, and creator of 'Sketch like an Architect.' They discuss how technology has overshadowed and nearly replaced the craft of architectural sketching in schools, leading to a decline in this essential skill among young professionals. David shares insights from his journey and mission to revive this art form, drawing on his experiences in Denmark and his global platform, which has helped thousands master architectural sketching. He highlights the cognitive benefits of sketching, from aiding in problem-solving and brainstorming to enhancing client interactions. They also discuss the advantages of using both traditional and digital sketching methods, and share success stories from students and professionals who have benefited from David's teachings. The episode underscores sketching as a universal, learnable language that enriches both the creative process and business communication in architecture.—Today’s GuestDavid Drazil is an architect, author, and creator of Sketch Like An Architect, a global platform helping architects and designers build confident drawing skills through a clear step-by-step method. Originally from the Czech Republic, David studied architecture in Denmark, where he noticed a big gap: sketching was expected, but rarely taught. That insight sparked a mission that’s grown into a worldwide movement — with over 300,000 followers, 15,000 students in his online courses, and three popular books. Today, David empowers creatives to communicate their ideas visually with clarity and confidence.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:45 Meet David Drazil: Architect and Sketching Advocate01:45 David's Personal Interests and Background03:56 The Importance of Sketching in Modern Architecture06:59 Personal Benefits and Practical Applications of Sketching13:26 Sketching as a Differentiator in Client Interactions23:11 Success Stories and Testimonials27:37 Final Thoughts on Sketching and Technology30:54 David's Favourite Places and Conclusion—Key TakeawaysSketching is a Timeless Skill That Sets You ApartYou learn that, even in an age dominated by digital tools and AI, the ability to sketch by hand remains a powerful differentiator. Sketching helps you communicate ideas quickly, build trust with clients, and stand out in interviews or meetings. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being able to think and express visually in the moment.Anyone Can Learn to Sketch - It’s Not About TalentYou discover that sketching isn’t a gift reserved for the naturally talented. It’s a learnable skill that you can develop with practice. By embracing sketching, you open up new ways to brainstorm, solve problems, and engage with others, regardless of your starting point.Sketching Fosters Human Connection and CollaborationYou realise that sketching is more than just a technical skill; it’s a tool for collaboration and dialogue. When you sketch in front of others, you invite them into the creative process, encourage feedback, and create a shared understanding. This approach not only speeds up decision-making but also makes your work more engaging and client-focused.—Click here to connect with David Drazil 🤝Click here to learn more about Sketch Like An Architect 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

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• Why Architects Should Build Project-Based Teams with Kevin Kennon | 102

  Jon welcomes internationally renowned architect Kevin Kennon, the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, to discuss his journey and innovative approach to sustainable design. Kevin shares his experiences, including his involvement in the World Trade Center design competition, and the concept of distributed practice. He explains how this model can help studios access the best talent while remaining competitive and nimble. Kevin also touches on the advantages of working with remote teams, the importance of harnessing new technologies like AI, and the future direction of the architecture profession. The episode provides valuable insights for architects on balancing tradition with innovation in the architecture industry.Today’s GuestKevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years’ experience in sustainable and innovative design. He’s the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, leading the creation of zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts around the world. His portfolio includes major projects such as the Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. A finalist in the World Trade Center design competition, Kevin has received over 40 international design awards and has work in MoMA’s permanent collection. He also lectures at top universities and contributes widely to discussions on urban development and climate change.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:45 Meet Kevin Kennon04:10 Understanding Distributed Practice10:19 Challenges and Misconceptions of Remote Teams16:49 Success Stories of Distributed Practice22:24 Kevin's Career Journey25:20 9/11, Ground Zero, and the World Trade Centre Design Competition27:56 Advantages of Running Your Own Practice30:46 The Future of Architecture and AI39:08 Advice for Younger Practices43:55 Main Takeaways45:32 Favourite Travel Destination46:42 Final Thoughts—Key TakeawaysYou can achieve more by building teams for each project and working with people from different places. This helps you find the right skills and makes your work stronger.You should be open to new ideas and ways of working. Using technology and working with others online can help you keep up with changes in your field.You will grow if you keep learning and share your knowledge with others. Every project is a chance to learn something new, and working together makes your work better.—Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝Click here to learn more about Kevin’s work 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝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.—Next EpisodeNext time, Jon chats with David Drazil to explore whether design professionals still need sketching skills.

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• How To Stop Undervaluing Your Expertise with William Ringsdorf | 101

  Jon welcomes William Ringsdorf, founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting, who shares insights on how architecture firms can master profitability and process. William explains that most pricing issues stem from a failure to clearly communicate value and set proper boundaries. He discusses the systemic problem of undervaluing expertise in the field, highlights the importance of knowing one's numbers, and suggests implementing tiered service proposals to offer clear value to clients. William also offers practical steps for architects to increase their fees and improve profitability while reducing scope creep and burnout. He stresses the need for tracking data and continuous improvement in business practices.—Today’s GuestWilliam Ringsdorf is the founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting. He helps architecture firms master profitability, process, and purpose, turning chaos into clarity so you can design with freedom and confidence. Drawing on three decades of UK and German project experience, his coaching blends practical systems with architectural insight. This work is part of Into The Nest, an award-winning sustainable practice, giving his guidance credibility and a live design context.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:28 Meet William Ringsdorf03:08 The Issue of Undervaluing Expertise05:52 Understanding the Systemic Problem12:22 5 Steps to Fix Undervaluing Your Expertise19:59 Success Stories and Practical Examples23:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways27:35 Closing Remarks and Contact Information—Key TakeawaysDo a Value Audit and Communicate Your Worth ClearlyStart by taking a close look at all the ways you help your clients. This means thinking about how you reduce risks, save time and money, and create certainty for them. Once you understand your value, make sure you talk about it openly with your clients. Don’t just focus on the hours you work or the tasks you do - explain the real benefits and outcomes you deliver. When clients see the value you bring, they are less likely to argue about price.Know Your Numbers and Set BoundariesIt’s important to know exactly what you need to charge to cover your costs, pay yourself fairly, and make a profit. Work out your effective hourly rate based on real projects, including all your overheads. Then, set clear boundaries in your proposals. Offer different service tiers (like basic, standard, and premium) so clients can choose what suits them, but always be clear about what is included in each option. This helps avoid “scope creep” where you end up doing extra work for free.Be Confident - Raise Your Fees and Practise Sales ConversationsDon’t be afraid to increase your fees. Try adding 10–15% (or even 20%) to your next proposal. Most clients will accept this if you have explained your value well. Practise having fee conversations and handling objections, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. The more you practise, the more confident you will become. Remember, you are worth it, and charging what you deserve helps you run a better, more sustainable business.—Liked our guest? Click here to learn more about them 🤝Click here to grab a free copy of William’s e-book 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

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• Celebrating 100 Episodes with Guests, Listeners & Friends of the Show | 100

  Jon celebrates the major milestone of 100 episodes by featuring reflections, tips, and good wishes from past guests and listeners. This special 100th edition features messages from diverse voices, including architects, entrepreneurs, and business experts, who discuss the impact of the podcast on their personal and professional lives. The episode highlights the show's commitment to providing valuable insights and practical advice for running a successful architecture business. Tune in for heartfelt congratulations and essential business tips from notable guests as Jon marks this significant achievement.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:58 Guest Congratulations02:15 Reflections from Past Guests11:32 Messages From Listeners13:03 Tips on Content, Consistency, and Marketing17:16 Advice on Positioning Your Services and Making Sure Clients Are Ready19:36 Tips on Implementation, Getting Visible, and Thought Leadership25:11 Guidance on Running The Business and Knowing Your Numbers29:04 The Human Side of Architecture and Business31:55 Ideas For Future Episodes34:55 Final Messages from a Guest and a Listener37:22 Wrap Up—ContributorsAnge Lyons, Anna Lundberg, Ann Vanner, Antoinette Chappell, Aya Shlachter, Beatrice Ronchetti, Bob Gentle, Bryon McCartney, Catherine Turner, Chris Ducker, Chris Simmons, Colin Gray, Derek Timms, Doug Hodgson, Ellie Senior, Fabio Zammit, Hayley Watts, Helen Nurse, Helen Tebay, Jackie Goddard, James Talman, Janine Coombes, Joe Wright, Laura Pearman, Lee Smith,

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