I’m not sure who said the phrase first, but it’s worth repeating: The only constant is change.

Change shows up everywhere, often without our approval or permission. Sometimes a new technology or competitor makes us take notice. Other times, it’s a bump in the road we didn’t expect.

The reality, not only in business but in our personal lives, comes to this: people thrive when they stay curious and embrace change. I like to think that’s my nature, especially as I dream of a machine that folds and puts away the laundry!

Embracing change has been written about for years, and for good reasons. In a Forbes article, for example, Chad Wachter shares the importance of being open to new ideas and how it can drive growth and innovation. Yes, I know, adapting is often easier said than done. That’s where mindfulness can help.

People who practice mindfulness know that life involves impermanence. Everything, even happiness and sadness, is temporary. At first, this idea might be hard to swallow and feel daunting, but it’s freeing once we change our mindset. When we resist saying, “that’s how we’ve always done it,” we can live in the moment and stop worrying about what might (or might not) happen next.

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strategize and plan for the future. As leaders, we always need to look ahead. But we can do this while realizing nothing lasts forever, and that’s not a bad thing. Even the best-made plans need adjusting along the way. Even a mistake can help us evolve and grow if we’re open-minded and put our ego aside.

As we wrap up 2025 and move into the new year, model the way for your team, those in your personal life, and in your community. And when something new or a challenge comes knocking, let’s embrace it like an old friend we’re meeting for coffee (or a chocolate croissant or two).

Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.

Today, business is moving faster than ever, tempting us to juggle numerous projects at once to keep up. We often think of multitasking as a skill, a badge of honor, and something we brag about. But it’s time to rethink this narrative.

On the big screen and in real life, I’ve yet to see a superhero (or shero!) with the word “multitasker” emblazoned across their clothing or costume. In fact, I doubt anyone would celebrate or wish for this superpower. Someone who’s juggling a dozen projects at once can’t save the day or a project from derailing. It’s the coworker who shows up, fully present, to help in that moment of need.

I’ve often said to the SMPS HQ team that our people are our wins. Without them, we can’t thrive—individually or as part of a team. When we stretch ourselves too thinly, we risk burnout, miss opportunities for creativity, and lose energy to show up consistently. On the other hand, when we give our full attention to one task or challenge, we perform better, have more focus, and provide the attention our projects and teams deserve.

Sometimes, the best solution isn’t going faster or taking on more with shorter deadlines, but to ask, is there a better way to do this? Can we figure out a process where we flourish without feeling as stressed? Let’s normalize that fast isn’t always good. Let’s challenge those “I need it yesterday” moments.

Of course, urgent needs can’t always be avoided but being kind and thoughtful in our requests goes a long way. Our legacy shouldn’t be about how hard or long we worked but how we cared for ourselves and each other. And that’s a superpower to be proud of!

Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.

On July 1, 2024, I stepped into the role of CEO with gratitude, responsibility, and maybe an extra coffee or two. Every day, and often hourly, I reflect on the purpose behind SMPS: transforming business through marketing leadership. Our mission is part of every conversation with firm leaders, Society volunteers, and alliance partners.

At its core and simply put, SMPS champions A/E/C marketers and business developers. You’re the ones driving impact, fostering innovation, and building the future for your firms.

In a recent Marketer article, I talked about how value is the true driver of meaningful, lasting growth. When we lead with value, the rest follows: successful projects, retention of talent, and the list goes on.

At SMPS, we see the value in A/E/C professionals and it’s our goal to provide the resources needed and help prepare for leadership roles. From launching programs like AEC.AI to expanding our Human Experience in Business initiatives, SMPS amplifies voices and shows what’s possible when there’s expertise and equity in the room. In fact, anything is possible when people feel empowered.

This year, we also took bold steps to strengthen the future of our industry, acquiring ElevateHER, joining the ACEC Engineering Workforce Consortium, and formalizing a national partnership with the ACE Mentor Program of America. Each move represents our commitment to expanding access and doing our part to stimulate the workforce of tomorrow.

Our Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) credential continues to raise the bar, empowering more than 1,200 professionals with the skills to influence strategy and earn a seat at the table. And our SMPS Fellows program honors those who’ve advanced the profession through leadership, mentorship, and lasting impact.

SMPS believes so strongly in the impact marketers and business developers make that we created a holiday just for you. A/E/C Growth Professionals Day shines a spotlight on your vital contributions. While it’s officially celebrated one day in January, we honor your leadership every day, because the future of the built environment depends on it. This year, we also elevated our commitment to chapter leadership by evolving the Chapter Leadership Symposium and launching the first-ever Presidential Leadership Development Certificate. This new recognition is an investment in the future of SMPS and a celebration of those stepping up to lead with vision and purpose.

As an organization, we’ve never been in a better position to meet the future. Through our resources, as well as insights and research from the SMPS Foundation, we’re helping our members and their firms thrive. But we’re not doing it alone. Our volunteer leaders are the lifeline of the organization, helping us build a community ready to take on the opportunities of tomorrow.

I’m proud to be part of this great organization, one that believes in the power and purpose of our members. Thanks for allowing me to go on this journey with you.

Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.

If we put a price on value, what would it be? A thousand dollars? A million? Most likely, the answer would vary depending on the person and scenario. Some might even say it’s priceless.

When it comes to value, we often look outward and consider other people’s opinions of us. It’s hard not to, because our environment and relationships shape us. That’s why words, paired with actions, are vital to our well-being.

How many times have we heard people say, “be kind to yourself.” Often, we’re harder on ourselves than on others. Showing more self-compassion and less self-criticism can be challenging at first. Being kind goes a long way—because if we start with ourselves the rest will follow. Let’s believe in our abilities. Let’s take more chances and seize opportunities. The first step might include getting out of our comfort zone.

To do this, I often challenge myself with the question, “Marci, when was the last time you did something for the first time?” (By the way, there’s nothing wrong with a little self-talk!) New experiences offer me the opportunity to change my perception of value. They allow me to see another side and expand my understanding of the world around me. There’s even value in being terrible at something new. That’s how I grow and accept that perfection isn’t as important as passion and resilience.

It’s important to curate your own value because it leads to empowerment. Instead of looking outward, look inward and ask yourself, “How do I want to live my life?” In addition to trying something new, you could:

• Volunteer: Volunteering helps communities, builds leadership skills, and provides a sense of purpose
• Increase knowledge: Upskilling keeps you competitive within your profession and industry

The more value we see in ourselves, the more value we bring to the table. And while on your journey, don’t forget to pay it forward. Encourage colleagues, family, and friends to discover their worth and purpose. Be someone’s shining light. Let’s continue to lift ourselves and each other up.

Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.

The future isn’t waiting; it’s ours to build. I wrote these exact words in the December issue of Marketer. Since that time, I’ve passed on the virtual baton to Danielle Gray, who’s now the journal’s publisher and an integral part of the SMPS HQ team. The Marketer is, and has always been, in great hands.

Passing and receiving a baton requires trust and willingness. So does being future-forward. Change is inevitable and as part of the A/E/C community, there’s one vital component that ties us together: the desire to do something great. I, along with the entire HQ team, want you to thrive, both personally and professionally.

To thrive—and not just survive—we need to be ready. How can we be ready when life is changing around us at warped speed? I’ve asked myself this question many times, especially since March 2020.

I never imagined that, exactly five years ago this month, our lives would change. The pandemic didn’t come knocking or give us a warning. In fact, it arrived like an unwanted guest outstaying their welcome. We were all affected, some more than others. But one thing’s for sure: Those who were able to pivot created new opportunities, generated ideas, and welcomed unique approaches. During this time, companies also pivoted, even the Society had to change the way we do business. We reimagined learning and networking for our members and their firms, and for our own sustainability and growth.

Living through the pandemic taught me a lesson: nothing remains constant. We need to equip ourselves so that we can turn challenges into opportunities. Reskilling and upskilling in areas like AI and other technology, leadership, and writing can help us become indispensable during ever-changing times.

In a recent survey held by SMPS, A/E/C professionals cited writing and communications as two vital skills needed in today’s workplace. This proves to me that AI isn’t here to replace us. But it is here to stay. Understanding AI and its role in A/E/C is vital for progress. And part of progress involves knowing when to evolve.

To me, this is so apropos for marketers, business developers, and all A/E/C professionals who are literally building our communities, from the foundation up. So, at the same time, why not build yourself up? SMPS and the SMPS Foundation are here to help by providing insights, resources, and networking through a variety of avenues. We want you to become indispensable and thrive, and when the time comes, be ready to pass the baton. Because what you do today is the legacy you leave tomorrow.

Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.

In 2003, SMPS issued its first diversity statement, which came out of the work of a prior task force created for this purpose. Since that time, various members, chapter leaders, board members, and staff have recognized the need for SMPS to enhance its diversity and inclusion efforts.

While already in the works, 2020’s “summer of reckoning” catapulted the need to formally organize a concerted DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) effort at the Society level.

In July 2020, the Society released a call for volunteers requesting applications from members interested in serving on the new SMPS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force. Over 70 members applied, with 25 selected to include a mix of race, age, geography, gender, and sexual orientation. This mix would ensure the value of varying perspectives that each task member brings to the group through their life, professional, and personal experiences.

To read more, download the full article.

Article written by Asheya L. Warren, CPSM, first appeared in Marketer journal. Asheya is the current chair of the SMPS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force.

Commemorating the role of women in A/E/C marketing and business development.

In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we’d like to acknowledge our members in advancing the work of women in the A/E/C industries. Your contributions to our industries and professions continue to make an impact. To highlight some of our members, we’ve picked a few videos and articles that showcase thought leadership.

Two Cents in Two Minutes | Krystle English, MBA, CPSM

Working from home while managing a household can be tricky. In an episode of Two Cents in Two Minutes, Krystle English, CPSM, shares five tips on managing your workload and your family.

Two Cents in Two Minutes | Maisha Hagan

Some things are out of our control—but some things are within our influence. In Two Cents in Two Minutes, Maisha Hagan shares three goals to leverage influence for short- and long-term career success.

Two Cents in Two Minutes | Jen Newman, FSMPS, CPSM

The way you say something is more important than the words you choose. During Two Cents in Two Minutes, Jen Newman, FSMPS, CPSM, shares tips on how to make sure your message comes across as intended.

How 1 Case Study = 3 Wins | Leslie A. Blaize, CPSM

A/E/C firms continually look for ways to differentiate themselves. Case studies can provide an important step toward achieving that goal. Add them to your toolbox, and you’ll find countless ways to repurpose content.

How 1 Case Study = 3 Wins was featured in the December 2020 issue of Marketer. Our featured photographer for the issue was Ines Leong. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Ines has collaborated with clients in the built environment globally. Her work has also been featured in A+U, Architectural Record, and The New York Times, to name a few.

Social Media in A/E/C | Sherilyn Tkacz

In today’s virtual climate, social media becomes more important than ever. It’s a continuous avenue and a highlight reel with which to impress potential clients and employees.

Help SMPS Lead the Way.

The Society is looking for leaders like you. Here’s your opportunity to help us fulfill our vision of Business Transformed Through Marketing Leadership.

SMPS continues to be strong. We’re creating value for our members to help them succeed even in these challenging times. To ensure we’re in the best position to help them navigate their careers and build business for their firms, we need volunteers who are passionate about the profession and committed to excellence. There’s a lot of work to do, and I hope you’ll consider serving SMPS in a leadership capacity.

The annual Call For Applications has been issued for the following positions on our two key governing bodies, the board of directors and SMPS Foundation board of trustees:

• 2021–22 SMPS President-Elect
• 2021-23 SMPS Secretary-Treasurer
• 2021–23 SMPS At-Large Director (1 open seat)
• 2021–23 SMPS Foundation Trustee (8 open seats)

Descriptions of the available positions, obligations, and terms of office are provided in the Call for Applications, along with the eligibility requirements and a description of the application process. Visit the SMPS website or click on these links to access the Call for Applications and 2021 Call for Applications Form. The deadline for submitting your application is Thursday, April 15, 2021.

APPLYING FOR POSITIONS ON THE SMPS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Candidates should be prepared to attend meetings within the following timelines along with occasional visits to chapters, regional meetings, and Build Business (dates are subject to change, as well as whether the meetings and visits will be held in person or virtually):

Annual planning meeting 2021: June 2021

• Fall board meeting: October 2021
• Winter board meeting: January or February 2022
• Spring board meeting: April 2022
• Annual planning meeting 2022: June 2022
• Build Business 2022: July 2022, Atlanta, GA

APPLYING FOR A POSITION ON THE SMPS FOUNDATION

The SMPS Foundation typically organizes a monthly meeting via conference call and has at least one in-person meeting, which is held in conjunction with Build Business (held annually in July or August). The in-person meeting is subject to change and may be held virtually.

SMPS and the SMPS Foundation value and seek diverse leadership. Please join us in shaping our Society and leading our industries forward.

On March 15, SMPS HQ staff and leadership presented The Ins and Outs of Board Service. Please refer to the on-demand webinar recording here.

Sincerely,

Bernice Bako, FSMPS

President-Elect, SMPS

In February 2020, the SMPS board approved the creation of a task force to suggest initiatives and strategic objectives to increase awareness of and support for diversity, equity, and inclusion for our membership, the marketing profession, and our members’ firms.

What else did 2020 bring? A worldwide pandemic, the continued senseless killing of unarmed Black and brown people leading to worldwide protests and demands for social justice reform, and the most tumultuous presidential election season of my lifetime. It was the most difficult year of my career personally and professionally.

As staff liaison to the task force, I’m empowered, along with my esteemed colleague Natalie Gozzard, to help SMPS find and clarify its place in the DEI space. The task force is chaired by Asheya Warren of SMPS Dallas and principal of Praxis. The members, which are listed below, are dynamic, passionate and full of ideas to advance a culture of inclusion at SMPS and throughout the A/E/C industries.

Stay tuned because there’s more to come soon.  Cheers to 2021!

Antonio

Article written by SMPS Chief Financial Officer, Antonio Payne, CPA.

The SMPS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force includes the following SMPS members:

• Whitney Allred, Marketing & Communication Lead, TVA Architects
• Alexandra Brown, Marketing Manager, Kaufman Lynn Construction
• Donald Butchko, Manager, Marketing, Richard L. Bowen + Associates
• Tracy Callaway, Director of Design Strategy, Level 1 Global Solutions
• Briana Carter, Manager of Corporate Marketing, Murphy Company
• Tiffany Cartwright, CPSM Business Development Coordinator, Walter P Moore
• Thy Daniels, Senior Proposal Coodinator, Bora Architecture & Interiors
• Deirdre Gilmore, FSMPS, CPSM, President, TankGirl Marketing
• Maisha Christian Hagan, Marketing Director, Beauty & the Boss
• Sarah Hoff Owner, Creative Director, Hoffhaus Creative
• Nicole Hopkins, Business Development Manager, Dewberry Architects
• Jennifer Huebel, CPSM, Creative Manager, Clark Construction Company
• Courtney Kearney, CPSM, Owner, CKearney Consulting
• James Kent, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Thornton Tomasetti
• Grenee Martacho-Celuch, CPSM, CEO, Concord General Contracting
• Pipper Mosley, CPSM, LEED Green, Associate, Business Development Executive
• Andrea Narendorf, Business Development Director, Hill International
• Jennifer Nix-McGerald, CPSM, Team Leader, Proposal Coordinators WG
• Elizabeth Paul, CPSM, Director of Communications, AIA Philadelphia
• Kim Pipkin, President, Black Kite
• Julie Reimann, Director of Business Development, HE2PD
• Katie Spurlock, Marketing Director, Salter
• Ramsi Taylor, Director of Programs for SMPS Chicago
• Lisa Thoele, APR, LEED AP, CPSM, Business Development & Marketing Manager, RS&H
• Kim Thompkins, FSMPS, CPSM, SMPS At-Large Director, Director of Proposals, Cumming Management Group
• Uniqueka Walcott, CPSM, Proposal Manager, Moffatt & Nichol
• Asheya Warren, CPSM, Principal, PRAXIS
• Alicia Washington, Director of Marketing & JEDI ERG, HRP Associates
• Joy Woo, CPSM, LEED AP, Associate Vice President, AECOM