Jon explores architectural communications and business development with Robert Woodburn Park, a communications expert with over 25 years of experience. The discussion spans Robert's journey from working in practice to running his consultancy and the integration of storytelling with visuals in architecture. The conversation examines the evolution from traditional to digital media, providing practical marketing advice for small architectural practices. Topics include effective marketing strategies, the importance of a strategic focus, leveraging social media, and balancing brand building with lead generation. Robert introduces Beedier, a platform offering up-to-the-minute information, research, and news relating to business development, communications, and marketing for architects.

Today's Guest...

Robert Woodburn Park is a seasoned architectural communications expert, providing in-house graphics and marketing leadership for over 25 years for successful studios such as Allies and Morrison, Alison Brooks, PLP Architecture, and JTP. He now runs his own consultancy, and this year launched Beedier.com - a new media platform for architectural business development information.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:52 Personal Interests and Hobbies

04:11 Early Days of Digital Communications in Architecture

09:03 Integrating Storytelling with Visuals

13:03 Transformative Changes in Architectural Communications

22:56 Balancing Brand Building and Lead Generation

29:52 Challenges for Smaller Firms

33:06 Introducing Beedier: A Resource for Architects

35:24 The Importance of Social Media for Architects

39:09 Key Elements of Business Development

42:01 Travel Stories and Favorite Places

45:12 Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Takeaways...

Strategic Communication in Architecture Marketing:

You need to focus your communication on what works best for your architecture practice. This means knowing the right ways to market, like using social media, websites, going to networking events, or getting PR. It helps create a clear and interesting story about your projects.

Balancing Brand Building and Lead Generation:

You should aim to split your marketing spend between building your brand (45%) and finding new clients (55%) to keep your business growing. Building your brand is about getting noticed (through awards, being featured, or being online), while lead generation brings in new projects and clients. Smaller practices should stick to what they’re good at and not try to do too much.

Importance of Storytelling and Visuals:

Telling the story behind your projects is really important. It makes your work more interesting and helps people remember it. Using strong stories with good images can help others better understand and appreciate your work.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

👉 Visit Beedier

🎵 Listen to Beedier’s Alternative 80’s Playlist (curated by Jon) on Spotify 🎵

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In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats about London Build 2024, the UK’s leading and largest construction show where he is one of the event speakers.