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 outr ..read more

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 manag ..read more

Transform Your Architecture Career Through Mentoring with Chris Simmons | 028 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 gene ..read more

How To Write Great Architectural Job Ads with Aylin Round | 027 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 expl ..read more

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 ..read more

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 strateg ..read more

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 th ..read more

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 in ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more