Women in Architecture – Communication Masterclass

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Elevating Communication: Insights from Industry Leaders

Introduction to the Communication Masterclass

In a recent enlightening session hosted by the Women in Architecture, the focus was on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of professional growth: communication. The discussion brought together industry leaders to share their experiences, tips, and strategies for mastering communication in various contexts. The panel featured Stephen Drew, founder of Architecture Social, Ashley Faugeul, Director of Marketing at 10 Design, and Katia Polidoro, Principal Director at TP Bennett. Each brought a unique perspective, making the session a rich source of insights for architecture students and professionals alike.

Stephen Drew: Overcoming Self-Imposed Obstacles

Stephen Drew opened the session with a candid reflection on the psychological barriers that often hinder effective communication. Drawing from his personal journey, Stephen highlighted the common fears and misconceptions that many professionals face, particularly during job interviews and career advancements.

“Many of us enter interviews with a mindset rooted in our upbringing,” Stephen explained. “We’re taught not to speak to strangers, not to interrupt, and to be overly polite. While these are well-intentioned lessons, they can cripple our ability to communicate assertively in professional settings.”

Stephen emphasized the importance of flipping the script in interviews and other professional interactions. Rather than seeing the interviewer as a gatekeeper, he suggested viewing the interview as a mutual exchange where both parties assess fit and potential. This shift in perspective can alleviate pressure and foster more genuine and impactful communication.

Additionally, Stephen touched on the role of online presence in today’s professional landscape. He encouraged participants to overcome their fear of negative feedback and to consistently share their thoughts and projects on platforms like LinkedIn. “The world won’t explode if you post something,” he reassured. “Instead, you might find that it resonates with others and opens new opportunities.”

Ashley Faugeul: Creative Communication and Authenticity

Ashley Faugeul brought a creative flair to the discussion, emphasizing the power of visual and creative communication in the architectural field. With a background in graphic design and illustration, Ashley underscored the importance of making complex ideas accessible and engaging.

“Architecture can be dense and jargon-filled,” Ashley noted. “The key is to translate those concepts into something that’s visually appealing and easy to understand for a broader audience.”

Ashley also stressed the importance of authenticity in communication. She cautioned against overusing buzzwords like “innovative” and “groundbreaking” without substantiating them. Instead, she advocated for a personal touch, encouraging professionals to use their unique voice and experiences to connect with their audience.

“People want to hear from you, not a generic version of you,” she said. “Embrace your quirks and your voice. It’s what sets you apart.”

Katia Polidoro: Embracing Public Speaking and Neurodiversity

Katia Polidoro shared her journey from being an introvert with no social media presence to a confident public speaker and advocate for neurodiversity. Her story was particularly inspiring, as she detailed how personal experiences, including supporting her neurodivergent son, reshaped her approach to communication.

“I learned to slow down, simplify my messages, and be more mindful of how I present information,” Katia shared. “These adjustments not only helped at home but also transformed my professional interactions.”

Katia highlighted the value of structured support and training for public speaking. She credited programs like Women Talk Real Estate for providing the tools and safe spaces needed to develop her skills. Her advice to those hesitant about public speaking was clear: prepare thoroughly, start with topics you’re passionate about, and use these opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

In discussing neurodiversity, Katia emphasized the importance of creating inclusive environments. She advocated for small but meaningful adjustments, such as checking in with colleagues about their comfort and adapting the setting to meet diverse needs. “It’s about making everyone feel safe and able to perform at their best,” she explained.

Karen Fugle: Effective Team Communication and Leadership

Karen Fugle, who facilitated the session, contributed her expertise on effective team communication and leadership. Drawing from her extensive experience in coaching and mentoring, Karen underscored the importance of being a proactive and empathetic leader.

“Communication is not just about speaking; it’s about listening and understanding,” Karen said. She stressed the need for leaders to create environments where team members feel valued and heard. “Invite input from everyone, especially those who may be quieter. Their insights can be incredibly valuable.”

Karen also touched on the significance of feedback in professional growth. “Constructive feedback helps us improve,” she noted. “Approach it with a mindset of growth rather than criticism.”

Practical Tips for Effective Communication

Throughout the session, several practical tips emerged that can help architecture professionals enhance their communication skills:

  1. Be Prepared and Authentic: Whether for a job interview or a public speaking event, thorough preparation and authenticity are key. Understand your audience, refine your message, and present it in your unique voice.
  2. Embrace Technology and Social Media: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to share your work, thoughts, and professional milestones. Consistent and genuine online engagement can significantly boost your visibility and credibility.
  3. Practice Assertiveness: Cultivate assertiveness by balancing respect for others with clear self-advocacy. Use “I” statements, set boundaries, and rehearse challenging conversations.
  4. Adapt and Include: Recognize and accommodate the diverse needs of your colleagues and audience. Simple adjustments can create a more inclusive and productive environment.
  5. Learn from Failures: View failures and setbacks as learning opportunities. Each experience can help you refine your approach and build resilience.

Conclusion

The masterclass on communication was a treasure trove of insights and practical advice. It underscored the importance of effective communication in advancing one’s career and making a meaningful impact in the field of architecture. By adopting the strategies shared by Stephen, Ashley, Katia, and Karen, professionals can elevate their voices, overcome obstacles, and contribute more effectively to their projects and teams.

For more resources and insights tailored to architecture students and professionals, visit Architecture Social.