How Architects Can Get More Clients Online: Build Trust in a Digital World

Traditionally, architects relied heavily on word-of-mouth referrals and personal connections to get clients. Architectural firms thrived on relationships built through networking, social clubs, or repeat clients. 

But the landscape has shifted dramatically.

Potential clients are no longer asking for referrals as their first step. Instead, they start their search for an architect online, checking websites, reading reviews, and scrolling through social media profiles. 

Today, architects looking to attract new clients gain an advantage when they focus on their digital presence as the primary way to build trust and win new business.



In this post, we’ll show you how you can adapt to this shift and use your digital presence to help build stronger relationships with potential clients.

Three Keys to Building Online Trust as an Architect

At Archmark, we believe that building trust in the digital world comes down to three keys:

1. A strong online presence: You need a professional, up-to-date website and active social media profiles that showcase your work and highlight your architectural services.
2. Consistency across platforms: Whether a potential client sees you on Instagram or LinkedIn, the message and tone should be the same. Consistency is key to reinforcing your marketing strategies and demonstrating you are an expert in your field.
3. Helpful, valuable content for your audience: Blog posts, case studies, and client testimonials show off your expertise, helping you attract new clients and create new business opportunities.

Let’s dive deeper into how these elements can help you strengthen your digital presence and build long-lasting client relationships.

Key One: Build a Strong Online Presence

This might sound simple, but the first way to build trust is to actually show up. 

Many architects have zero presence online, or they have a simple website that essentially communicates nothing. 

The truth is, most clients are going to check out your website before they ever pick up the phone or email you. In fact, 84% of architecture clients do exactly that. 

For those people, your website is your digital handshake—it’s the first impression that potential clients will have of your firm.

Going beyond simply showing up, this first impression has to be a good one. If your website is outdated or difficult to navigate, you could be losing potential clients before you even know they’re interested. 

But it’s not just about having a great website. 

Clients are looking at your whole online presence, from LinkedIn to Instagram to Google Business Profiles. The more platforms they find you on, the more credible you’ll appear. 

This level of visibility ensures that when clients search for architectural services, your firm stands out as the ideal choice.

Avoiding the Commoditization Trap: Don’t Let Your Firm Blend In

Key Two: Consistency is Key in Architecture Firm Marketing

Your digital presence can work more effectively when it clearly reflects who you are as a firm. This includes your firm’s personality, what sets you apart, and what promise you’re making to clients. 

For example, if your brand is all about being approachable and client-focused, that should come across in everything from your website copy to your Instagram posts. The goal is to help potential clients understand exactly who you are and what they can expect when working with you.

Once you’ve defined your brand, the next step is to make sure it’s consistent across all platforms. 

A potential new client should see the same type of information, brand message, tone, and level of professionalism whether they visit your website, connect with you on LinkedIn, or follow you on Instagram. Inconsistent messaging can confuse prospects and weaken the trust you’ve built through your marketing efforts. 



By creating consistency, you reinforce your visibility as an expert in your field.

Real-World Example

One architecture firm we worked with had a strong portfolio, but their online presence didn’t do it justice. After a full brand and digital audit, we helped them align their messaging across their website and social media. Within just six months, they saw a noticeable boost in client inquiries, all thanks to a more cohesive and professional online brand.

Key Three: Building Trust Through Helpful Content and Digital Tools

Your website needs to be more than just a list of services—it’s your opportunity to demonstrate that you’re an expert in your field. 

Potential clients are looking for your insights and examples of your expertise, reliability, and ability to handle their unique challenges. 

By leveraging strategic content and digital tools, you can build trust, attract new projects, and stand out as the ideal choice for your ideal clients.



Here’s how you can use different types of content and platforms to strengthen your relationships and grow your visibility.

Use Blog Posts, Case Studies, and Testimonials to Showcase Your Expertise

Build Trust Through Online Reviews and Testimonials

Online reviews and testimonials are now as crucial as personal referrals. 

Most clients research reviews before reaching out, so having a strong collection of positive testimonials is essential. Feature these reviews prominently on your website and link to platforms like Google Business Profiles to make them easy to find.

By highlighting positive client experiences, you add credibility to your firm and reinforce your marketing strategies. 

Reviews serve as proof that you deliver on your promises and help differentiate your firm from competitors, especially when clients are considering new business opportunities.

Use Social Media to Engage and Build Rapport

Social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn provide dynamic ways to engage potential clients and keep them interested in your work.

Share project updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or expert insights into industry trends. This type of content shows off your firm’s personality while reinforcing your professionalism and approachability.

Consistency is key: Use social media to maintain your visibility and align your posts with your overall marketing efforts. By actively engaging with your audience, you’ll attract new clients and create new business prospects without feeling overly promotional.

Stay Connected Post-Project with Digital Follow-Up

Building trust doesn’t end when a project wraps up. 

Maintaining relationships with past clients can lead to repeat business and valuable referrals. Use email newsletters to share updates, project photography, or news about your firm. Personalized follow-ups—such as a thank-you note or a check-in email—show clients that you value their relationship beyond the immediate project.

Client surveys can also help you gather feedback and demonstrate that you’re constantly refining your architectural services. 

These small but meaningful touchpoints enhance your architecture firm’s business development strategy and help you remain top of mind for future opportunities.

The way architects find and build client relationships has changed. 

If you’re ready to step up your digital game and start attracting more clients, begin by auditing your online presence.

Make sure your website is up to date, ensure brand consistency, and engage with your audience through social media and other platforms.

Want some help taking your firm’s digital presence to the next level? Book a clarity call with Archmark, and let’s talk about how we can help you build lasting client relationships through a stronger online strategy.