In our member spotlight, Jamie Raymond, RID, EDAC, LEED AP, takes time out of her busy schedule to chat with SMPS. Jamie, who’s partner at Four Point Design Partners in Indianapolis, shares the rewards of her career and what it means to be an SMPS member.
Can you tell us a bit about your role? I’m the director of marketing and business development, as well as project manager and client champion for projects.
What is a typical day like for you? Every day is different. Being a business owner requires me to wear a lot of hats. I’d like to say that I’m good at multitasking, but I’m realizing that no one is really good at multitasking. Every effort requires focused attention to that specific task. I do my best to set aside time each day for project work, networking, and keeping in touch with contacts, marketing, and mentoring.
What are the rewards of the job? Being a business owner was never on my bucket list. I had come from a large architectural firm, where my role and duties were a bit more streamlined and focused and l liked that; I had access to experts in every aspect of our A/E/C business. Looking back, I never realized how rewarding and empowering it is to be a part of a small firm. Your future is in your own hands, if you want to make a change, you make it. We can see the results and rewards of our efforts on a daily basis.
How long have you been a member of SMPS? I joined SMPS in 2015.
Why is SMPS membership important to you? I cannot express enough the value of having a strong network in your professional career but also personally. SMPS provides a network of amazing professionals, and frankly, amazing people. As a member of SMPS, I’m not only growing my strong network, but I’m constantly learning and developing marketing, business development, and leadership skills in a supportive environment. Never stop learning and adding new skills sets to your tool box; you never know when life will change your path and it’s good to be prepared.
Can you provide a short example of how SMPS has helped your career? And how has it has helped you as a firm owner? Beyond the opportunities for networking and education, I think SMPS has helped me build self-confidence. I’ve always had a misperception in my mind about networking and business development, that it was some elusive skill set that only extroverts can succeed. I know that isn’t true; everyone has their own way of going about building a network and building business, and we each add value.
What’s the best career advice you’ve received? I’m not sure this career advice was directed specifically at me, but it’s one that I always remind myself: No one has ever looked back on their life and said I wish I’d worked more.
What’s the best career advice you’ve given? You may not always be the most talented, but you can always be the most prepared.
Is there any advice you’d give to marketers on how they can get a seat at the table and become leaders at A/E/C or technically-focused firms? I think this is something that marketers struggle with on a day-to-day basis. This year in SMPS Indiana, our educational platform has a focus on “Smart Marketer. Smarter Leader.” My best advice is to be confident in your skills and the value you bring to the table. At the same time, realize that having a seat at the table takes time and hard work. Be humble and appreciate that our industries and firms are made up of a variety of personality types, generations, and skill sets. Being a leader in your firm means being a leader in your community and your industry—build that network, seek a mentor, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you want.
What has contributed to your success? I’m thankful every day for the good fortune I’ve had in my professional career. I’ve been given mentorship and guidance from some of the best professionals in the architecture and design industries.
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