A CAD Manager’s Demeanor

This is the start of a new series on the interactions that a CAD/BIM Manager has with staff, clients, bosses and just about anyone.  I will focus on the mannerisms, approach, demeanor and presence that they have with others. How they present themselves.  What they project. How they respond.  These will be the unspoken items that leave impressions on people beyond the spoken words.  They may include facial expressions, body language, stance, etc.

First impressions matter, but I am not one to be overly concerned about individual items in this list.  It is the collective impression that is left behind.  It is usually not just one interaction, since we usually get multiple opportunities to exchange info and ideas with others.

But have you though about how you interact with others and how your demeanor encourages or stifles openness.  Being aware of how you posture yourself when collaborating with others can allow you to adjust.  Taking stock of your mannerisms may bring to light some unexpected perceptions by others that you never meant to project.

Have you ever walked away from a conversation thinking that the other person did not hear a word you said?  That they would not make any adjustments going forward based on your advice, even though they said they would.  Have you thought that the person actually wrote off everything you mentioned before you even finished the conversation? I bet it was because they held themselves in a defensive manner or projected negative “vibes” in the way they stated things.  It may not have been anything they actually said, but you got the feeling that they just did not care.

As Tech Managers, we do not want to leave that kind of impression.  We want to be open to new ideas, critique and suggestions that others bring us.  Don’t let your demeanor betray your desire to listen.