Design+Dialogue

You want what's best for your firm as an architect or interior designer. You want to attract top talent, keep them happy, and have a healthy work-life balance. But what's the best way to achieve this?

Unemployment rates within design are lower than the national average, particularly in hot fields like web, digital, and UX design. So how do you know it's time to make the switch? Read on for ways to know you're ready to leave your job and how to find a new job in the design industry.

With so many other architects applying, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd and make an impression. But understanding what these firms are looking for in candidates can help you make sure your resume and portfolio will grab their attention.

Working with a design recruiter can be an extremely valuable way to find top talent - but only if you know how to make the most out of the relationship.

When it comes to recruiting top design talent, a little extra effort can go a long way. By following these three simple tips – getting involved in the community, using a specialist recruitment agency, and offering competitive compensation packages – you can ensure that you're putting your best foot forward and attracting the best candidates for your open positions.

An interview for a design director position is both an exciting and daunting prospect. But by preparing for these 7 common questions, you can go into your interview feeling confident that you have the skills and experience needed to ace it.

If you've been in the architecture and design industry for any length of time, you've learned one truth: architects are paid less than they are worth.

Design interviews can be complex.  Sharing skills, presenting designs, and relating taste levels can be challenging at the best of times, let alone under the pressure of an interview. In the Design and Dialogue, I share four tips that will help you ace your next design interview.

Every business has its star players. The first tier brings business, culture, and organization to the company. The second tier manages day the day tasks and the third tier is really in the trenches, bringing their A game to the front.

I have been connecting with firms across the globe and I believe I have found the best hybrid policy for the design industry.  Check out the video and let me know if you agree!

There is a great deal of movement in the architecture and interior design industry. If you’re not interviewing, you should definitely put yourself out there.

DBI has had a full 6 months!  Some much so that I have not been able to create my Design+Dialogue videos.  That has changed today.  Check out all that we have been up to and all that is coming for DBI in the video below.

While extrinsic rewards sometimes motivate people, true motivation comes from within. The leader's job requires them to find the spark of inspiration and fan it into flames -- without ever dampening the fire. 

Architecture and design typically appeal to many professionals who are detail-oriented and creative. Considered both practical and artistic, architecture satisfies a craving to create something tangible and unforgettable. 

LinkedIn is one of the first places many people go to learn more about you. An up-to-date page detailing your experience is what recruiters look for when seeking candidates.

Ghost quitting isn't fair to the company, but sometimes it's not a choice. If your work experience with the design firm has been positive and you've enjoyed working with the organization, why not ask for help instead? If that's not an option, your final choice may be resignation.

Many architects will tell you they already bring a lack of confidence to their work. Even their brilliant designs have been met with criticisms like, "Why didn't you do this differently?" or "It's okay for someone with your experience level."

A toxic work environment can affect your physical and emotional health. Employees in toxic workplaces often report sleeping poorly, having difficulty concentrating, constantly tired, and even turning to other harmful coping behaviors to soothe themselves.

Many leaders turn the other way for a good reason when conflict arises. Conflict is unpleasant. Most people avoid disagreements at all costs because they cannot bear to be considered "that mean person," or they fear saying something they'll regret. 

Being a team player at your design firm is a fast-track formula for getting recognized. Becoming known as someone who values the design talent as much as they support the firm's goals can be a career booster for your soft skills portfolio.