“What does this have to do with Civil Engineering?” I paused, smiled, and answered with one word:
“Everything.”
Just a few days ago, Ironman California challenged me with 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of cycling, and a 26.2-mile marathon run at the end. From sunrise to sunset, it was the culmination of a long-term goal that demanded sharp focus and perseverance.
So… what’s the connection to my approach to work?
Click here for the answer, as originally posted on LinkedIn.
Two Essential Ingredients.
It’s obvious you need to thoroughly review the regulations and criteria your project will be evaluated against—and ensure your presentation highlights how your development benefits the public. Still, if you are doing it right, this should be a natural part of the process. No news here.
The key ingredients are:
“Collaboration and Communication”
By fostering open dialogue and demonstrating your project’s positive impact, you can create a more collaborative atmosphere and increase the likelihood of project approval. To do this, you must start by engaging with stakeholders empathetically and respectfully, addressing the community’s concerns.
From many years of experience as a Civil Engineer helping my clients successfully secure project entitlements and permits, it’s crystal clear that there isn’t a path to project approvals that excludes these two ingredients.
While collaboration and communication will not get everyone’s buy-in on the project, it will help ensure all concerns are heard and addressed to a reasonable extent. This effort will unlock the pathway ahead.
Beyond just securing approvals, prioritizing collaboration and communication leaves a lasting impact. It builds trust with stakeholders, strengthens relationships with regulatory agencies, and sets the tone for smoother interactions in future projects. These are investments not only in the success of one project but in your reputation and ability to navigate complex processes in the long run.
Roads require engineers. The road to success is no exception.
But how do you get on that path?
I’m sure you have read similar articles offering you the so-called “keys to success.” The truth is that there is no single “right way” to find success, but there is a “right way for you.” Here are five keys that might help you unlock professional success as a civil engineer.
Click here for the rest of the article by Isaac Kontorovsky as originally posted at ASCE Civil Engineering Source.