I appreciate your thoughtful and (non) whiny comment. I’m not sure there is a point anywhere within the entire post that I whine, but thanks for the comment all the same.

I agree whole heartedly with your point that it is our job to enlighten our clients as to the merits of good architecture and a well designed space, but by their very presence at a design meeting with an architect, they are exhibiting (albeit at a basic level) an appreciation of this – if they wanted a basic extension/loft conversion, most builders are quite capable.

The point of the piece was to address what I have seen as a real problem within the industry. The practise I work for has plenty of clients and a good amount of work coming through the office – working on our presentation and selling skills is not something that we need to focus on.

What needs to happen across the entire industry is a greater appreciation from the general public that use our services of the job we are capable of doing. The fact that people are spending tens of thousands of pounds highlights the point further. Trust, to a certain degree is earned through previous work – this is why a client will choose a certain architect over another. Its a trust in their ability. This is all I am alluding too, not trust on a personal/business ‘heres my money, dont waste it’ level.

This industry is built on relationships, but only to a point. Hard work and quality of work is what shines through. I have plenty of clients that are a joy to work with. They are understanding of the architects process, and supportive to the point you have to ask ‘why cant you be my client all the time’. There are others though, and I eluded to one in the post that make the job a hundred times harder.

I welcome your comment, I do however think you misunderstood the post – it wasn’t a whine, it was merely a statement of fact. Some clients are hell to work with. When it is all said and done, it really is that simple.

Like any good businessman, it’s your job to educate and enlighten your clients; if you’re having trouble convincing them of the benefits of good design then you need to sharpen your presentation and selling skills.

Look at this from your clients’ side of the table – why should they spent tens of thousands on your services? Then put together a great presentation that answers that question. For the ones that get it, great. For the ones that don’t, move on!

“Trust me, please” ain’t gonna get it done! Great relationships are the heart and soul of this business – it’s up to YOU to define and build that relationship!