#18: Rachael Smith of Lighthouse Studio joins us to explore how to expand her business and optimize her project workflows. We delve into the nuances of project management, client contracts, and how to scale a high-end residential architecture firm.

In this conversation, we discuss:

→ How planning work schedules ensures a consistent project pipeline while allowing time for business development

→ How to lock clients into larger and longer contracts (and why that’s better for the architect and the client)

→ The benefits of using simple tools like spreadsheets and Gantt charts for project scheduling

→ Why it’s crucial to experiment with outsourcing strategies and contract structures

→ What SEO improvements can small firms make without hiring an SEO agency?

→ How should projects be scheduled to reflect a busy, in-demand status?

→ What pricing strategies can help maintain client engagement throughout a project?

→ How can a refined client qualification process contribute to sustainable growth?

(03:03) The beneficial collaboration with a freelance designer.

(07:48) Why three months' planning isn't long-term security.

(12:29) How confidence in the timeline impacts project planning effectiveness.

(14:11) Experiment with contract structures for higher-end design.

(18:00) Middle pricing often appears as the ideal choice.

(19:59) Refine qualification and establish minimum contract value.

(23:50) Improving SEO to rank in the top 3.

(28:21) Refine client qualification using data and opportunities.

(31:58) Explore scaling to increase contract value benchmarks.

(39:15) The client-focused process: present, choose, refine, build.

(41:23) Expand in the current market before entering a new one.

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