Archibiz provides business education and consultancy services to architectural practices globally. Through courses, coaching and other business advisory services, Archibiz helps architects fill in the gaps in their business education so they can lead more profitable and sustainable practices.
Many architects aspire to start their own architecture firm one day. They dream of complete autonomy in choosing projects, being their own boss and establishing their name as a respected architect. Starting your own architecture firm can be an amazing achievement. However, the
journey to success is often one that is fraught with difficult roadblocks. For some, owning a practice can be so challenging that they step away from architecture altogether.
So, what is it that gets in the way of an architect building that dream practice? What are some of the difficulties that architects experience when they go off on their own? We sat down with a group of ArchiBiz Coaches and Mentors to learn more about the risks involved with opening your own architecture practice, not including professional liability.
Here are the five biggest risks in starting your own architecture firm:
Design Studio Salagnac Arquitectos by Salagnac Arquitectos, Nosara Costa Rica Photo by Andres Garcia Lachner
5. Personality
Not everyone is born a leader. Not everyone is born a successful entrepreneur either. However, it’s your personality that will determine whether you are capable of becoming both of those things. Personality is one of those hidden risks that is often overlooked. While there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ personality, there are certain characteristics that can influence a person’s leadership capabilities. At ArchiBiz, we have identified two types of people: “searchers” and “full-toolboxes.”
A searcher is one who enjoys learning and pushing themselves out of their comfort zone. They know that they don’t have all of the answers, and are okay with that. As you might have guessed, a full-toolbox is the opposite. They claim to know all that they need to know, and their ego often gets in the way of their success.
Embrace being ‘the searcher’ and accept that you are not going to be good at everything you do. Outsource wherever you can, such as marketing or bookkeeping, and focus your time on the tasks you are good at. It’s also worth mentioning that your personality can get in the way of your ability to find clients and manage a team. When it comes down to it, a successful architecture practice is built on strong relationships.
Starting your own architecture firm can be a tough yet exciting endeavor for an architect. Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you want to take the time to learn what you don’t know, or try to figure it out for yourself as you go.
At ArchiBiz, we offer an eight-week program for architects who are looking to learn the business fundamentals so that they can lead impactful, sustainable and profitable practices. Learn more about our DAPS program.
Architizer’s A+Awards Best Firm categories allow design firms of all sizes to showcase their practice and vie for the title of “World’s Best Architecture Firm”. Start an A+Firm Award Application today.
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