Career Lesson From A Construction Project Manager At HELIX Environmental Planning
Claire, a Construction Project Manager, learned to overcome self-doubt when working alongside more experienced colleagues, recognizing that "everybody brings different talents to the table," even if experience is initially a perceived disadvantage in securing projects. This realization, coupled with developing strong business development and networking skills, allowed Claire to leverage their unique strengths and contribute meaningfully to teams.
Project Management, Teamwork, Resilience, Networking, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Claire Watkins
Construction Project Manager
HELIX Environmental Planning Inc
Oregon State University
Environmental & Related Sciences
Consulting & Related Professional Services
Operations and Project Management
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Don't doubt your abilities based solely on years of experience; recognize and leverage your unique skills, such as project management, scheduling, budgeting, or adaptive management.
2. Early career professionals can significantly contribute to teams by offering fresh perspectives, technological skills, and strong networking abilities.
3. Despite the emphasis on years of experience in certain aspects of the job market, actively build your network through business development and relationship building to create opportunities and showcase your skills.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
I think something that I've thought about a lot and learned is that you'll definitely have moments where you doubt yourself. You might feel like you don't know what you're doing or aren't good enough for a particular role. This is especially true when you're in an entry-level position and working with someone who has 20 or 30 years of experience.
In those situations, I think it's great to utilize their experience and absorb as much information as you can. However, I've also doubted myself, thinking I wasn't as good as those with more experience.
But I also believe that everyone brings different talents to the table. Some of my colleagues with 30 years of restoration experience excel in specific areas of construction or have certain skill sets. Meanwhile, I might have a stronger skillset in managing a project, its schedule, and the budget.
I can also be quicker with adaptive management and problem-solving. It's important to recognize your own abilities and not doubt them just because someone has more years of experience. You can still provide valuable insight and make great progress in other areas that might not be their forte.
I know that earlier on, when bidding on public projects, we had to submit resumes for proposals, and having multiple years of experience gave you a better chance. That's a downside I've struggled with, feeling like I don't have as much experience as others.
However, I've also found that business development is a strong skillset for me. I do well with networking and have made great connections. People reach out to me and invite me to events, which shows the value I bring.
It's about realizing that you'll eventually reach those higher levels, but don't doubt where you are right now. You can be very effective and have great skills, even if you haven't been in the field for 20 years. Your technology skills, for example, might be much better.
Ultimately, you play a valuable role on a team and contribute in many ways. Utilize everyone's skillset, and it will balance out well.
Advizer Personal Links
LinkedIn: Claire Watkins