Program Overview
During the Part 1 Ohio Small Firm Exchange discussion, participants overwhelmingly identified the same challenge: clients don't understand what architects actually do until something goes wrong. From unrealistic schedules and permit surprises to budget misconceptions and "just stamp my plans" requests, architects spend enormous amounts of time fixing problems that could have been prevented through better communication.
Part 2 moved from identifying the problem to sharing practical solutions. Three small firm leaders walked through one real client conversation that fundamentally changed the way they communicate value. Attendees left with strategies, language, and tools to immediately incorporate into proposals, kickoff meetings, and business development conversations.
This third session explores AIA Toledo's Open Doors Initiative and its goal of closing the gap between what architects do and what the public thinks architects do. Attendees will learn how proactive outreach and client education can reduce common frustrations such as unrealistic expectations, fee resistance, scope misunderstandings, and the all-too-familiar "I just need a stamp" request. Discover how investing in public awareness can help small firms improve client interactions, streamline operations, attract better-qualified leads, and position architects as trusted advisors from the very start of a project.
This is the final session in a three-part series with Erin Curley (AIA Toledo), Matt Toddy (AIA Columbus), and Sarah Kleiner (AIA Cincinnati).
This program is organized by the Ohio Small Firm Exchange.
About the Small Firm Exchange (SFx)
The mission of the Small Firm Exchange (SFx) is to advance the mutual interests of architects practicing in small firms. SFx representatives connect small firm leaders in their local and state components to the national organization.
Ohio’s Small Firm Exchange (SFx) representative Sarah Kleiner, AIA hosts virtual SFx coffee chats and programs so small firm leaders can engage with one another, discuss issues facing small firms today, and see what the AIA can do to support Ohio’s small firms. AIA members practicing in small firms are encouraged to reach out to Sarah to discuss how the AIA could better support their practice.
Sarah is a principal at Envisage Architecture LLC, in Cincinnati, a firm she co-founded in 2016. They have seven employees that range from part-time to full-time. Their practice focuses on commercial projects, particularly retail, as well as multi-family projects. They are currently renovating their own LEED Silver multi-family, multi-use building that will include 11 apartments with their office on the first floor.