I went to a networking-event-slash-Octoberfest last night, thanks go to rand* for the libations and the bratwurst. I had a good time and saw some old friends, as well as made some new ones.
I didn’t feel much like going, but I know that I’ve got to get out there if I want to keep food on the table. By the time I leave these types of events, I’m always happy I went no matter how I felt going into it. I’ve either met someone that I’ve been hoping to cross paths with or I see someone I haven’t seen in awhile, which rekindles a relationship. Bottom line, its always positive.
Over the past couple of years, the building industry has been pounded. Architecture and engineering firms are falling away, and contractors are struggling to keep the revenue flowing. Developers and owners have put their cash in the mattress while banks have locked their vaults. Faces are disappearing from the crowd and the fringes have been well pruned. What’s left is the core group…the foundation of the industry going forward.
But, I have noticed there are two groups of folks at many of these meet ups and conferences – the busy and happy ones, and the sour and miserable ones. The latter are bitter about how the economy has treated them and are waiting for things to come around. It’s as if they’re standing still dreaming of “how it used to be”. The former is actively seeking out opportunity and have embraced the changes placed in front of them. They are not one to stand and wait. These are the folks that I want to run with, to exchange ideas, and to look forward.
I started my firm over a year ago with this simple concept in mind: Where will the opportunities lie over the next few years and how can I best position myself to capture as much of them as I can? Fourteen months in, I am a thriving architect…
Which are you: moving forward or standing still?
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.
