From the category archives:

Business Development

The other day, I was questioned by Collier over at Building Content about my firm and 2010.  He asked, “Do you have any big plans/resolutions/new initiatives for your firm in 2010?”  Great question.  I certainly had some things bouncing around in my head, but I had yet to put it down on paper.  So, perfect opportunity to put it down for evaluation and critique.

Here’s my response…

Happy New Year to you…

That’s a great question.  One that was touched on in a mastermind group I recently joined, but haven’t sat down to pull it together.  Having just launched my business in 2009, I am looking in all directions to take the next step.

I would say in a nutshell, that my goal is to continue to build on the momentum I’ve gained in 2009.  Using that as the force behind me, push forward to more exposure in the market and pursuit (and award) of larger projects.  The response my hanging out my own shingle has been very positive and I am finding opportunities where I thought none existed.

I do want to refresh my branding… using my “one year in business” as a targeted launch point.  I have a ton of ideas on my company website, my blog, appearance of plans, letterhead, etc.  I have until July to get it done…  There seems to be something about a one year anniversary that shows the world that your in it for the long haul.  I want to use that moment to reintroduce my firm.

I also want to get more consistent in my blog posting and writing for Examiner.com.  I have been getting better, introducing some weekly features to help build content.  Using these, I’m looking into generating other revenue streams to supplement the professional services fees.

So, I guess I have thought about it…

I wish you good luck and prosperity for 2010!  Hopefully things turn around for architects this year.

Dave

You have to clear space for new things, mentally and physically…

My family spent a few days this week cleaning house and organizing.  My wife’s workspace, as well as mine, were the focus really.  We juggle many different things throughout each day, and having a mess of disorganization stifles the creative flow (as well as sanity).  So, the trash collector has a little extra to pick up today.

From the mental side, I am now able to put 2009 behind me.  There were a lot of changes in this year and there is a distinct dividing line of when the clouds parted and the sun returned.  Making the decision to leave a midsize firm and going it alone is scary stuff, but four months of success in the midst of a deep recession can build confidence in yourself and your abilities.  More importantly, it helped me regain a passion for architecture and building.

I’m excited about 2010…

Opportunities abound, if you know where to find them and are willing to take the steps necessary to get there.  Scrape away the old, get back to the basics and find your passion.

Happy New Year…

I’d love to hear what great things you are going to do this year.

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The Denver office MCG Architecture won two awards last week in the City of Centennial, Colorado. We won Retail Project of the Year and Office Project of the Year. The awards were presented at the City’s Best of… dinner. Unfortunately, they didn’t post pictures of the projects, so I’ll need to track those down and post them.

Way to go team!!

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Promises and Follow Through

October 16, 2008

The election season brings promises to the forefront. Each candidate is full of them, and people vote for empty promises. It is most unfortunate that people don’t think through the idea or promise to really understand what is on the other side. Here is a cause….what is the effect? Once the [...]

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What Makes You Special?

August 16, 2008

Seth Godin has some good thoughts on the Intangibles that set you apart from your competition and create a perceived value.  Perceived value takes away from the ’lowest bid’ mentallity.

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