The Shortlist

Project managers (PMs) have many demands on their time, making the development of project-specific content for a pursuit challenging. As an AEC marketer, if you can get a new PM up-to-speed on marketing systems and the proposal process—and in turn, understand their role and workload—it will make for a smoother workflow and hopefully a winning pursuit! In Episode 31, Principal Melissa Richey and Pursuit Strategist Grace Takehara join host Wendy Simmons to share suggestions for new (or not-so-new) PMs on how to avoid writer's block, what areas of a proposal to focus their time and energy on, and how we can both help each other be successful. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 4

We've flipped the script on this extended episode as Principal Marketing Strategist, Melissa Richey English interviews our host, Wendy Simmons, and producer, Kyle Davis. Ever wonder what it takes to dream up, research, plan, record, produce, and launch a podcast? Well, we sure did! With the support of excellent resources, awesome talent, and a whole lot of heart and hustle, we're delighted to share lessons learned from Season 1, and a glimpse of what to expect for Season 2!

Whether you're designing your first (or 50th) org chart, revamping a schedule graphic, or finding a 'fresh' way to showcase your team, coming up with creative, compelling design requires a spark of inspiration that can be tough to find when you're on deadline and under pressure. Listen in as our dynamic design duo, Becky Ellison and Abigail Clark, give the skinny on how to maintain your creativity in the fast-paced environment of AEC marketing.

As the primary communicators of a firm's brand identity, marketing teams often take a lead role in brand management and maintenance. On occasion, it's a good practice to step away from the day-to-day and take a look at the big picture. In this episode, Wendy Simmons and Rachel West explore the components of a successful brand audit. From competitor analysis and visuals assessments, to looking at language and brand personality across digital marketing platforms—the audit can help you identify the areas that are on point and those that are falling short. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 5

Trying to cultivate a BD ecosystem within your firm but have staff who believe 'business development' is not in their job description? From seller-doers, project managers and support staff to your BD/Marketing teams, everyone plays a critical role in supporting client care and the brand experience. In this episode, Wendy Simmons and Melissa English explore the fundamentals of business development—from the 'zipper' effect to quick tips and tricks to mobilize your colleagues. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 5

Every company has a brand identity that sits somewhere on the spectrum between bold and diluted. In this episode, Wendy Simmons and Rachel West untangle and define the five major components of brand identity including brand values, brand message/promise, brand personality, brand voice, and visual brand identity. No matter if you're working with a hundred-year-old brand or launching a startup, what are the best ways to develop and hone these elements? And who should participate in that process? Plus, get a quick download on Middle of Six's brand identity and how it has evolved since day one. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 1

Disclaimer: This episode contains blatant stereotypes and generalizations of both "math people" and "art people." You know, math people are the technical staff in an AEC firm who love Excel pivot tables and work through mathematical story problems just for fun. On the flip side, you can find art people sketching out a logo, swiping through Instagram stories for home garden inspiration, all while blogging about last weekend's music fest. 

In this week's episode, Middle of Six graphic designers Becky Ellison and Abigail Clark chat about simple and sometimes unconventional ways of bridging communications gaps between these two (equally amazing) subject matter experts.

Proposal cover letters are tricky. Sometimes they aren't scored, but more often than not, they impart a critical first impression. So why are they frequently approached as an obligatory, blasé introduction when the selection panel is looking to be inspired, entertained, and informed? In this episode, Allison Tivnon shares five key elements of effective cover letters that will distinguish your team from the competition. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 4

If proposals are at the heart of your day-to-day work life, you are likely in InDesign a LOT. But the tough truth is that many proposal coordinators don't enter the profession with formal training in layout and design. Many of us learn on the job and (let's face it) kind of make things up as we go! Have a nagging suspicion that you're spinning your wheels? That there are more efficient ways to get the work done? There are, and we can help! Join Middle of Six's graphic design team, Becky Ellison and Abigail Clark, as they give their top 10 tips to help you find your footing, improve your workflow, and spend more time creating. 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.5 | Domain: 4

Do you have staff attending an interview who've never laid eyes on the proposal? Does a key member mysteriously disappear when it comes time to rehearse? Got a 70-slide PowerPoint for a 20-minute presentation? If you're nodding your head at any (or al) of these, start waving those red flags! Join Allison Tivnon and Wendy Simmons as they commiserate, laugh, and offer solutions to the oh-so-common missteps that can derail even the strongest proposal efforts. You can't treat a problem until you diagnose the cause. Tackle all your red flags before interview day and you will greatly increase your odds of winning the shortlist! 

CPSM CEU Credits: 0.25 | Domain: 4