How to Make Sure an Architect Refers You Work

If you already have architects in your network but they’re not consistently sending work your way, this isn’t about getting noticed. They already know you. What you need to do now is give them absolute confidence in referring you. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make that happen.

‍

Put Yourself in the Architect’s Shoes

You might get on well with an architect, but referrals aren’t based on rapport. Every time they recommend you, they’re putting their reputation on the line. Think of yourself and your team as an extension of the architect. Your work, communication, and behaviour on site should reflect their standards and professionalism.

‍

Put yourself in their shoes: imagine you’re the architect, and a client asks, “Which contractor should we use?” You’d want someone who treats every detail as if it were your own design, anticipates problems before they arise, communicates clearly, and delivers exactly what you planned. That’s the level you need to operate at if you want to be the contractor they feel confident referring again and again.

‍

Don't wait to be chased

Architects want to know exactly what’s happening on site, and they don’t want to have to chase updates.You need to be pro-active, rather than reactive. Sending short, structured weekly updates on progress, upcoming tasks, and decisions required shows that you’re organised, professional, and proactive. Including photos, diagrams, or simple site plans can make these updates even more valuable, giving architects a clear picture without having to visit the site and chase you constantly.

‍

By keeping communication clear, concise, and consistent, you build trust and confidence with the architect. When they can rely on you to keep them informed and ahead of any potential issues, you become the contractor they instinctively recommend. Taking control of communication demonstrates professionalism and reduces the risk for the architect, which is exactly what earns referrals.

‍

Be the One Who Spots Issues First and Solves Them

Architects value contractors who identify potential issues before they become major headaches. Don’t wait until something goes wrong on site; proactively review drawings, specifications, and site conditions to anticipate clashes, compliance risks, or practical challenges. The earlier you spot a problem, the more you protect the architect from client complaints or delays, which directly builds their confidence in recommending you.

‍

With Buildscout you will have access to all the drawings and documents for a project that the architect is working on. This means that you can fully understand what will work and what won’t before the architect even refers you the work! It’s important that you go to the architect with solutions, not just raising concerns. It’s all good identifying potential problems, but presenting solutions will position you as a practical problem solver - exactly what they want!

‍

Back the Architect in Front of the Client

Even if your ideas are different from the architect’s design, it’s incredibly important to never to undermine their decisions in front of the client. Your behaviour reflects on them, and any negative impression can make them hesitant to refer you in the future. Always support their decisions publicly, showing respect for their expertise and protecting their credibility with the client.

‍

Raise disagreements privately and constructively, offering professional feedback and potential alternatives in a way that strengthens the project rather than criticises. Contractors who enhance the architect’s reputation in front of clients are far more likely to be the first choice for referrals.

‍

Make Their Life Easier Than Other Contractors Do

Architects are constantly comparing their experiences with different contractors, often subconsciously. If you want to be the one they recommend, aim to make their job easier at every stage. This means running a clean, organised site, managing subcontractors efficiently, and keeping the project on schedule. Small details like leaving clear access, tidying as you go can make a big difference in how an architect perceives your reliability.

‍

For example, imagine two contractors working on the same type of project. Contractor A leaves the site cluttered, doesn’t communicate delays until they happen, and subcontractors constantly miss deadlines. Contractor B keeps the site orderly, sends weekly progress updates, and flags potential issues early with solutions. Which contractor would you feel confident recommending to a client? The choice is obvious. 

‍

Remind Them You Want More Work

Architects are busy, and even if they value your work, they may forget to refer you unless you stay visible. After completing a successful project, don’t assume they know you’re ready for more. A simple, professional reminder goes a long way. You can say something like:

‍

“If you’re ever recommending contractors for similar projects, we’d love to be considered.”

‍

This reinforces that you are eager, available, and confident without being pushy. Follow up occasionally with short updates on completed projects or insights relevant to their work to keep yourself on their radar.

‍

Buildscout can make this process much easier and effective. You can track when architects you know submit new planning or construction applications and get an alert. This allows you to reach out at the right time, and you’ll also have all the planning drawings and documents related to the application so not only are you reaching out at the right time, you’ll know everything you need to know about the project. This demonstrates initiative and positioning yourself as a contractor who is proactive, professional, and ready to take on their next project.