Next month, our 15th year in business will officially come to a close. To celebrate this milestone, we thought we’d recap all the invaluable lessons we learned over the years. We look forward to the next 15 and thank all of you who have made the first 15 possible!
- COMMUNICATION
Whether we’re designing a senior-living center or a new hotel, communication is essential for every project to be successful.
- COMMITMENT
If you commit to a due date, you must hit that due date.
- PROACTIVENESS
When issues arise, don’t bury your head in the sand. Step-up and help find a solution.
- LEADERSHIP
When things go well, it is up to the leader to acknowledge the entire team. When things don’t go so well, it is up to the leader to take responsibility and not pass blame.
- PICK-UP THE PHONE
Don’t hide behind emails. Sometimes it is best to pick-up the phone and have a conversation.
- MEET IN PERSON
Face-time is key. Today’s technology allows us to do a lot remotely, but often there is no replacement for a face-to- face meeting.
- DOCUMENTATION IS PARAMOUNT
Document key issues. We’re all expected to process a large quantity of information. There’s no way to remember it all; documentation saves us from having to do so!
- HAVE A PLAN B
Always have contingency plans. Plan A doesn’t always work out, and it is important to have a back-up plan.
- DON’T ANSWER IN NEGATIVES
Instead of saying, “We can’t get that done by Friday,” say, “We can have that to you by next Wednesday” instead. One is far more positive and likely to receive a better response!
- BREATHE
Take a deep breath. We can all be overwhelmed with our current “fire” of the day. Sometimes it is good to step back, process the situation, and approach it with a clear head.
- MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
Everyone wants their “thing” right now. The key is to help manage their expectations and give them a realistic assessment as to when they can have it.
- TAKE OWNERSHIP
Be proud of your work and always perform to the best of your abilities.
- LISTEN
Listen to others. Don’t just hear the words, but absorb the meaning. Sometimes you can find wisdom or guidance from the most unexpected places.
- BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP
IT backups, that is. There are a lot of individuals out there looking to harm your business. Or, sometimes, a computer just wants to crash on you. Be prepared. Always have backups for everything. It will save you from going crazy.
- ENJOY YOURSELF
Enjoy the company of those you work with. We all spend 9+ hours a day / 5 days a week working with our co-workers. Get along and enjoy one another.
—
About VP Engineering
VP Engineering is a full-service architectural engineering firm, serving clients throughout the U.S. and around the world. With experience in a wide range of building types, from housing to commercial, our MEP engineering services help keep projects on budget and achieve your goals.
