Responsiveness: The Competitive Advantage Hiding in Plain Sight
In architecture and interior design, creativity is expected. Technical skill is assumed. But in a world of constant deadlines, shifting details, and high client expectations, one trait quietly sets top-tier design professionals apart: responsiveness.
It’s not flashy. It won’t win design awards. But it wins trust—and often, the job.
What Is Responsiveness, Really?
Responsiveness isn’t just replying to emails or returning calls quickly (though that helps). It’s about showing you’re present, reliable, and engaged throughout the process. It’s:
- Acknowledging a client’s concern—even if you don’t have the solution yet
- Following up without being asked
- Communicating clearly through changes in scope, schedule, or budget
- Keeping project partners in the loop to avoid surprises down the line
In short, it’s the professional equivalent of showing up on time—with clarity and intent.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
Today’s clients aren’t just hiring a portfolio—they’re hiring a collaborator. And responsiveness signals all the things clients care about but can’t see on a website: trustworthiness, professionalism, respect for their time.
For many clients, a design project is deeply personal. It’s an investment of money, time, and emotion. Being responsive shows them you value that investment as much as they do.
And on the business development side, the most responsive firm is often the one that gets the callback, the meeting, or the recommendation.
Responsiveness as a Differentiator
In a competitive market, where firms often look and sound similar, responsiveness becomes a true edge. It’s a signal that you’re organized, accountable, and easy to work with.
It strengthens client relationships. It streamlines collaboration. And it builds a reputation that lasts beyond the final walkthrough.
Best of all? It doesn’t cost a thing. It just takes discipline—and a commitment to making communication a priority.
Conclusion
Responsiveness may not be part of your design vocabulary, but it should be part of your business strategy. Because in a field defined by ideas, how you respond might just be what sets you apart.
Author’s Note: This article was originally intended for those in the architecture and interior design industries, but it can be considered and applied to most any other.
About the Author: Roger Marquis is business development director at Liebhaber Company, a general contracting and architectural millwork firm focused on luxury residential and hospitality projects in Manhattan. Roger has 30+ years of marketing and business development experience, and has held senior-level positions at companies within the financial services, technology, consumer goods, and AEC industries.
