Significant Career Lesson From a Design Professional at Cushing Terrell
Blake learned the hard way the importance of slowing down and thoroughly reviewing work before submitting it. As a Design Professional, "just paying attention" and ensuring the "right things [are] in the right places" is key to avoiding costly errors and keeping clients happy, hence the "stop, review, send" sticky note.
Attention to Detail, Reviewing Work, Project Management, Communication, Industry Realities
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Blake Cronin
Business Development | Design Professional
Cushing Terrell
Univeristy of San Diego
Architecture, Interior Design
Architecture, Construction & Design, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Creative
Video Highlights
1. Importance of thorough review: Taking the time to triple-check work, including drawings and attachments, is crucial to avoid errors and ensure accuracy before submitting.
2. Attention to detail in submissions: Paying close attention to detail, such as attaching the correct files to emails and submitting the right project drawings, is vital to prevent confusion and delays.
3. Impact of errors on project timelines and client satisfaction: Mistakes like submitting incorrect drawings can lead to permit backlogs and client dissatisfaction, highlighting the need for diligence.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven to be successful in your career?
I think definitely take your time. I have a sticky note on my computer that says "Stop, review, send."
I would get so used to finishing something, printing it, and immediately sending it off. Then it would come back. "What is happening here? Why is this line there? What is all this stuff that's on the drawing?"
So, really, just triple-checking and reviewing your work and making sure you're sending out the right thing, attaching the right file to the right email. Just paying attention is really the biggest thing in this industry.
Especially when you're submitting drawings to the city, sometimes I'll—one time I sent in the wrong set with the wrong project. The city just got confused, and then our permit got backlogged because of that. The client wasn't happy.
So, you just have to pay attention. Make sure you have the right things in the right places, and you always have your bases covered.