Where ambitious young professionals connect and grow

Amanda Christianson
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Project Architect, Rowland+Broughton Architecture and Urban Design
Architecture & Interiors
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Amanda Christianson So I was wondering if there is anyone else who has had direct experience working in an industry - or even just an office - of predominantly men? In the US, my industry, architecture, consists of only ~24% women. In my experience, I've actually been quite comfortable being in the minority! I was wondering if other women in here have either struggled or thrived in such environments...

116 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW)

Emily Moore: I'm working in politics, and there is definitely an higher ratio in favor of men.
116 weeks ago
Carmille: Politics, definitely. My experience in the dental/medical field was the same way. Because you were female, it was an unspoken rule that you were ...MorePolitics, definitely. My experience in the dental/medical field was the same way. Because you were female, it was an unspoken rule that you were automatically "subservient" to your male counterparts.
116 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson Excited to finally see a group like this on Brazen! I want to start by seeing if anyone here is a LEED Accredited Professional? Anyone with other environmental or sustainable affiliations out there?

96 weeks ago from Green and Environmental industries

Amanda Christianson: Tell me about it ... it's a difficult time for building professionals. I had let's say about 6 months of unemployment this past year. I had lost ...MoreTell me about it ... it's a difficult time for building professionals. I had let's say about 6 months of unemployment this past year. I had lost of contract work, hourly or part-time obligations I've been able to drum up, but nothing satisfying, and that all dried up, too. I've been wanting to take my ARE's to become licensed but 7 tests at ~$400?! Steep. Fortunatley, I just found work at a local arch firm and start in August. Very excited about this team!
95 weeks ago
Brian Matthews: Congratulations! It baffles me that someone of my talents cannot get work. I can take a set of CAD files from an Architect for nearly any kind ...MoreCongratulations! It baffles me that someone of my talents cannot get work. I can take a set of CAD files from an Architect for nearly any kind project and complete all of the electrical and lighting systems, inside and out, with all calculations, electronically saved within the electronic files, complete with all specifications (PDF files) for all lighting, controls, fire alarm, and power distribution equipment. I have a thorough understanding of all codes and ordinances. I have years of experience doing this, and I can do all of this using the free products on the Net (like TokBox, Skype, etc.). AND, I have a personality and you can put me out there working with the client and they LIKE me. So, what are employers afraid of? Why can't I get a job, or even part of a project with another engineer? It is definitely a difficult time.
95 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson Just exchanging ideas with Brian and got to thinking whether there are any interesting recession stories from this group? There's lots of 'green' in the building industry, and you all know we've been hit hard and many have found themselves out of work or underemployed. What have you guys done to persevere in tough times? Or are some of you in booming industries?

95 weeks ago from Green and Environmental industries

 
Kurtis Louis I'm new to Brazen... just curious, how does this site compare to LinkedIn?

110 weeks ago from Architecture

Ryan Paugh: @Morana: Great response!

@Kurtis: Welcome to Brazen Careerist! I just added you to our official Brazen Careerist Twitter List.

Brazen Careerist ...More
@Morana: Great response!

@Kurtis: Welcome to Brazen Careerist! I just added you to our official Brazen Careerist Twitter List.

Brazen Careerist is all about networking with new people through intelligent conversations. My Tip of the Day is to ask good questions in our networks. You'll be well on your way to meeting great people in no time.

Let me know if you need anything. I'm always happy to help!

107 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: Ok, so it's 12 weeks later, but... you get to share your ideas and discuss issues that are important to you with others. I find it interesting ...MoreOk, so it's 12 weeks later, but... you get to share your ideas and discuss issues that are important to you with others. I find it interesting because there are so many different perspectives out here!
95 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson Question: If you have been recruited by a person in your network for a job within their company, would it be advantageous to list them as one of your professional references accompanying your resume, or would it be redundant? Obviously, this person has already discussed your candidacy with the hiring manager and has had glowing things to say! Put on list, leave off list?

96 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

Melissa Breau: I would include them. If the company requires 3 references, I might add them as a fourth, just in case they want 3 additional, but I would ...MoreI would include them. If the company requires 3 references, I might add them as a fourth, just in case they want 3 additional, but I would definitely include them - and mention that they recommended you apply for the job in your cover letter (ie. so-and-so mentioned this is a great place to work for xzy reason, OR thought I'd be a great fit for this position since xyz).
96 weeks ago
Becky Benishek: I agree, definitely include them. Having that referral should give you an extra edge. Plus you never know who's looking at your references; it ...MoreI agree, definitely include them. Having that referral should give you an extra edge. Plus you never know who's looking at your references; it could be someone who didn't have a convo with that person and didn't know until now that you were referred by them.
95 weeks ago
 
marie I'm interested in starting a sustainability consulting company for small businesses. I've been doing a lot of research, but am still unsure of the best way to start. I don't have any relevant education (BA organic gardening, MS agriculture education). Any ideas? Thank you!

119 weeks ago from Green and Environmental industries

Amanda Christianson: Don't worry about add'l education ... just start, as Neeraj said! (It's been 23 weeks, have you?) Do you have experience in sustainability ...MoreDon't worry about add'l education ... just start, as Neeraj said! (It's been 23 weeks, have you?) Do you have experience in sustainability consulting?

I'd consider joining 'green' affiliations and groups in your metro area, or obtaining a LEED AP so you can study up on the strategies of sustainability and energy efficiency. (This is an accreditation that can be relevant for a variety of careers and professionals! Look into it at the USGBC.org website.) Get into the social and professional networks in this industry and get yourself talking to the right people.

96 weeks ago
Megan Atkinson: Marie: I've had a small-time sustainability-related (energy efficiency, specifically) biz for a while now. Though I haven't had much time to ...MoreMarie: I've had a small-time sustainability-related (energy efficiency, specifically) biz for a while now. Though I haven't had much time to dedicate to it due to school and my day job, I've found the most successful tactic is to just get out there and network your buns off. Most of my work comes from plumbers, HVAC contractors, and real estate agent referrals.
96 weeks ago
 
Lisa Lahey I have a job swappee on Monday March 22 - Dr. Robert E McGinnis....he writes YA novels. He has a profile on linked in. i have no idea what he wants me to do ha wish me luck

114 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Lisa Lahey: Thank you Amanda! It was an experience that's for sure.
110 weeks ago
Tyna Chua: Wow-job swap! Is this within the same company?
98 weeks ago
 
Gauri Nawathe Is it ok to make mistakes? Have you made mistakes at work? How did you correct them? As an intern I often trip and stumble. I understand that now is the time to make mistakes because it is through them that we learn. But at times I feel it seriously undermines my chances of being employed at this company. What do you guys think?

104 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!

Kenji Crosland: In my first "real" job I was so concerned about making mistakes that I asked my boss about every little tiny decision that came on to my plate. ...MoreIn my first "real" job I was so concerned about making mistakes that I asked my boss about every little tiny decision that came on to my plate. Even when I did this I made plenty of mistakes. It would have been more worthwhile if I took it as a given that I'd make mistakes no matter what and strive to learn from them.
103 weeks ago
Vanessa Alvarado: You WILL make mistakes at work, it's unavoidable. After making plenty of them you'll learn to quickly recuperate from them and take the lessons ...MoreYou WILL make mistakes at work, it's unavoidable. After making plenty of them you'll learn to quickly recuperate from them and take the lessons they give along with you on your next task.
103 weeks ago
 
Emily Moore The growth in YPW is awesome. Everyone in our network contributes both questions and answers that women face when entering a new professional office or business field. My question is about attire. In previous positions, dress code was business professional (think Washington, DC). When reviewing for my next position, the coordinator went over the dress code as not being very formal at all. Should I stick to my business professional outfit or cut down to adapt?

104 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW)

Amanda Christianson: I'm not sure I have interpreted this right, but if you are interviewing, don't tone it down for the interview itself. Wear a fun blouse with a ...MoreI'm not sure I have interpreted this right, but if you are interviewing, don't tone it down for the interview itself. Wear a fun blouse with a suit, so that if you feel REALLY overdressed, take of the jacket so you have a blouse that stands on it's own with the pants/skirt.
104 weeks ago
Maura V. Pingor: In a business setting it's always better to be safe than sorry. So if you are not sure what "not being very formal at all" means, just go ...MoreIn a business setting it's always better to be safe than sorry. So if you are not sure what "not being very formal at all" means, just go business professional and you can go from there!
104 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson I have been apprehensive about posting my resume online, but I finally went for it and posted one right here on my Brazen Careerist profile! Part of my apprehension stems from the fact that so often, one well-catered resume might too-narrowly define me in this type of forum. I need a variety of resumes to cater to a variety of businesses when on the hunt for a career changing opportunity. Would be interested to see what you all do for your online resumes vs. others.

109 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

Christina: @Tameem - Of Course!
108 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: @Pat - have you checked out my posted resume? I feel I have successfully done that here. I have not marketed myself as a technical professional. ...More@Pat - have you checked out my posted resume? I feel I have successfully done that here. I have not marketed myself as a technical professional. Otherwise, I would go heavily into what a great CAD monkey and architectural designer I am!
108 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman So, here's a common story. A woman leaves her secure fancy-pants career on Wall St. to open an online clothing business. Are traditional careers taking a hit? If you were going to switch careers or start something new, what would you do? What if your boyfriend wanted to quit his job and start over — would it freak you out? Do you like to take risks? Or do you crave security?

109 weeks ago from Career Changers, JobSTART 101, Location Independent and I am Gen Y2 more

Jamie Nacht Farrell: @Jennifer - great point and one that none of us pointed out before, thank you.

My husband and I did something to 'combat' the issue of ...More
@Jennifer - great point and one that none of us pointed out before, thank you.

My husband and I did something to 'combat' the issue of 'children', 'security', etc. BUT I was lucky enough to find out early on in my career that I was a risk taker / start up junkie. I believe the quote is, "proper planning prevents poor performance". Plan for your personality. So, knowing I'm a risk taker, we not only spent less and saved more when we were 'younger' (22-28), we also ensure that my husband (who is much more of a 'corporate' player) always has his job as well as a back up plan of somewhere he can go to make a steady salary.

I take the risks; and thus far they've paid off and when I was working (up until about 3 months ago) for start ups, I made far more $$$; and now consulting - it's very risky, but if anything happens - we have 2 savings accounts. 1 of which - we never touch and the other is "just in case" money. We plan to be pregnant this year, but have budgeted exactly what we 'think' we will need for a baby / child into each month and put that away.

Of course - this all sounds great in theory and when we actually do have 2 children ( ; things may be very different; but we're "trying" to plan...Nothing ever goes according to plan, but candidly, this is how I look at the situation. He makes 6 figures in his job and I make 6 figures / year consulting. If we can't make it work with those salaries, we probably need to re-evaluate / change our lifesytle.

109 weeks ago
: I think where you are in life does have alot to do with whether or not this is a valid choice for you. If you have a family or don't know about ...MoreI think where you are in life does have alot to do with whether or not this is a valid choice for you. If you have a family or don't know about the funds you have available then it might not be the right decision for you right then. I think saving and managing your money correctly when you are young especially has a huge impact on what you are able to do as well as the stability you will have in later life. However, you should always follow your dreams and if embarking on something like this is something that you really want to do then I think you should try whatever you have to in order to make it happen.
109 weeks ago
 
Meghan Skiff Fellow shoe lovers...recession=higher heels. must read...what do you think? is it escapism? http://bit.ly/bcmAxG

109 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Meghan Skiff: Guess I should include the link to see it.. hahaha power shoe: MoreGuess I should include the link to see it.. hahaha power shoe: http://twitpic.com/1h3mj3
109 weeks ago
Stephanie: Just realized: the heels that women usually wear to work aren't the more comfortable wedges that distribute weight more evenly, they're the more ...MoreJust realized: the heels that women usually wear to work aren't the more comfortable wedges that distribute weight more evenly, they're the more uncomfortable heels that have heels with teeny tiny surface areas! Beauty IS pain...
109 weeks ago
 
Erin Lariviere @PenelopeTrunk's webinar this Friday is titled "How to Decide Where to Live" - http://bit.ly/cca7CF - I'm curious how many people job hunt outside their city. When you were last job hunting (or if you are now), did you stay local, or did you broaden your geo-horizons?

110 weeks ago from JobSTART 101

Amanda Christianson: Job hunting long distance at the moment. It's difficult, and I don't have an established network where I'm hunting. But for me, the locale I ...MoreJob hunting long distance at the moment. It's difficult, and I don't have an established network where I'm hunting. But for me, the locale I choose is really high on the priority list, so I'm up for the challenge. Moving first is great advice (a la WSJ link from Stephanie), and that might be what's next for me.
109 weeks ago
Bryon Ownby: I'm in an unique situation to where job searching locally isn't much of an option where I am with my present career. Not that many employers to ...MoreI'm in an unique situation to where job searching locally isn't much of an option where I am with my present career. Not that many employers to choose from in my area and my employer has a relocation freeze as I'm in a dead-end role unless I can relocate with the company .

I don't know if I'm ready to move somewhere first without a job lined up though - don't think I can financially take that risk at the moment. However, I am thinking about applying to colleges in different areas where the market is a bit more suited for a career transition I would like to make as well. Any thoughts on this?

106 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman Do you ever think you'll have a "career for life"? Or is that paradigm officially over? Research shows that fewer Gen Yers are willing to job hop, with 25 percent wanting to stay with a current employer until retirement, compared to 14 percent who wanted that in 2008. (http://bit.ly/b6oFbb) I have to say, if I could stay at my current job forever, I probably would. Alas, we're a start-up and life-long employment isn't the goal...

110 weeks ago from Career Changers

Smith+Fritzy: Is the question more realistically "Is there an employer out there that you can build a thirty-plus year career with anymore?" When I first ...MoreIs the question more realistically "Is there an employer out there that you can build a thirty-plus year career with anymore?" When I first graduated college, my back-up plan was to teach as it was always a "safe" profession to me. Now, it's gotten to the point where it's not even safe anymore. In the private industry, in my profession, publications are disappearing left and right. Do I realistically believe my job will even exist in ten years? So what are "safe" career paths these days?
109 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: Professionals who need to invest heavily in their career path up front might be in a 'career for life'. Think doctors, lawyers, and other ...MoreProfessionals who need to invest heavily in their career path up front might be in a 'career for life'. Think doctors, lawyers, and other technical professionals. I wonder how it would feel to jump into a new career path while still paying off your med school loans.
109 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson I'm interested in a position that's been listed for a person with 2-3 yrs experience. I have 5. The position is billed as entry level, and I feel I am not. It's a slight change from my current career, but not so big where I feel I would need to start on the bottom rung. It's important for me to be challenged at work, and perhaps this wouldn't offer too much for too long. Should I go for it as a means to start veering off in a new direction, or would I set myself up for disappointment?

113 weeks ago from Career Changers

Patricia Stewart: It sounds like you are more like me Amanda. I get excited about a new job and the possibilities for advancement are usually slim, unless someone ...MoreIt sounds like you are more like me Amanda. I get excited about a new job and the possibilities for advancement are usually slim, unless someone retires or quits. I always need to be challenged and a desk job has never kept me challenged for long. I just got involved in a network marketing business and every day it gives me a challenge and excitement. I am working it part-time, while I still have a full-time job that I am bored with, but know that in 1-3 years I will be able to walk away from it and be my own boss and make my own financial decisions. I am tired of exchanging time for money and never having enough money to enjoy my family and do the things we want. Take a chance and be your own boss. Don't let other people dictate your success, you sound very ambitious and have leadership skills. Don't sell yourself short.
111 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: Thanks for the kind words, Patricia. And I think you're right - challenges are essential for me to feel fulfilled and passionate about what I'm ...MoreThanks for the kind words, Patricia. And I think you're right - challenges are essential for me to feel fulfilled and passionate about what I'm doing! I'm really starting to think more creatively about ways to earn a living for myself ... there are so many possibilities, and no wrong answers!
109 weeks ago
 
Emily Moore Love seeing this group grow! What are some of your favorite blogs to read regarding women and or the business world?

117 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW)

Amanda Christianson: I used to go to www.girlmeetsbusiness.com quite a ...MoreI used to go to www.girlmeetsbusiness.com quite a bit, but I haven't in a while. Time for another visit!
116 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson New to the group, and an architectural project manager. Anyone else in the building industry here?

117 weeks ago from Project Managers

 
Amanda Christianson Hey Ladies! Just saw this network formed today, and thought it would be a great forum to participate in.

117 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW)

Emily Moore: That's awesome! Would you want to stay in that field, just in a different capacity or transfer to a completely different job?
117 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: I have an interest staying within the building industry, but it's not necessary either. It would be so exciting to try something completely new! ...MoreI have an interest staying within the building industry, but it's not necessary either. It would be so exciting to try something completely new! Even if it's not for me, it will help me gain perspective/clarity on that field and my former field (architecture).
117 weeks ago
 
Vanessa Alvarado For those with a personal vendetta to be incredibly frugal during the required clothing-replacement process, here are my ideas: 1. Ask friends/family for clothes they no longer desire 2. Start with simple patterns and sew some work clothes 3. Browse thrift stores for quality pieces 4. Repair clothes already owned 5. Skim Sales for quality pieces at reduced prices Retail is boring me. Being frugal is fun, fulfilling, and less expensive!

119 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Ann Ellingham Crutchfield: Search for the best thrift stores. If you can find the thrift store that supports the "IN" not-for-profit, you'll have the fun of ...MoreSearch for the best thrift stores. If you can find the thrift store that supports the "IN" not-for-profit, you'll have the fun of treasure-hunter for designer bargains. Today I wore to work a Saks 5th Avenue label casmhere sweater ($0.50 for a Salvation Army), a St John's Knit skirt (I think that was under $5) and a J Crew blazer ($1). I must say, I looked great!
119 weeks ago
Meghan Skiff: Expanding on #1, I've enjoyed raiding my Mom's costume jewelery the past few years (she doesn't mind). She has some awesome pieces from the 70s ...MoreExpanding on #1, I've enjoyed raiding my Mom's costume jewelery the past few years (she doesn't mind). She has some awesome pieces from the 70s that she would never wear today. I, on the other hand, love the extra pop they give a basic outfit.
118 weeks ago
 
Erin Murtagh Great article on people changing their career focus/shaking things up after being laid off: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/21/garden/21architects.html

121 weeks ago from Career Changers

Amanda Christianson: Yeah, that was a good one. It got quite a lot of play in the press.
121 weeks ago
Isao Kato: Amazing turnaround stories- these people show us that continuing what we know how to do by downsizing or engaging in part-time gig is not ...MoreAmazing turnaround stories- these people show us that continuing what we know how to do by downsizing or engaging in part-time gig is not necessarily the way to go, with evidence. Thank you for sharing.
121 weeks ago
 
Regina Twine Here's my 1st draft: http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AXglQV18wsGnZGdxa2RtdDNfNWhwdmh6ZmYz&h... I need tips on how to get it down to one page please.

122 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

David Galley: Promotions - don't know much about the biz of sports marketing, but all I get from this is that you set up a tent next to the beer line and handed ...MorePromotions - don't know much about the biz of sports marketing, but all I get from this is that you set up a tent next to the beer line and handed out (or, perhaps worse, sold) school keychains and stuff. If that's true, there're better ways to sell it, and if not, you should rethink how you present it. Kitty Hawk Kites: on the right track, but what does $3K, or $5K reall mean in this case? Revenue is good, but profits are better, and where did you rank among all salesfolk? (cont)
121 weeks ago
David Galley: Without going over the rest of it line by line, I hope that gives you some ideas. Look over your resume, and pretend you know nothing about you ...MoreWithout going over the rest of it line by line, I hope that gives you some ideas. Look over your resume, and pretend you know nothing about you (put another name up top if that helps), and that you couldn't care less about this person. What would it take to get your attention? A resume for general circulation will necessarily be less targeted, but if you really want to get a job selling my beloved Camels (*puff* *puff*), then try to figure out what would make an RJR sales manager care.
121 weeks ago
 
Amanda Christianson This could be a shot in the dark, but has anyone here had experience moving out of a design field into something new? Or out of something in the construction/building industry? I am contemplating using my experiences gained as an architect in another field. I'm actually pretty sure I want to step out, but to where, I have yet to decide!

122 weeks ago from Career Changers

Rebecca Thorman: Those transferable skills being what's most useful to other employers: problem-solving skills, project management, business development, staff ...MoreThose transferable skills being what's most useful to other employers: problem-solving skills, project management, business development, staff management, communication skills, etc. - and that's what should show up on your resume/cover letter in result-form and how you should talk about yourself when networking. And yes, I would also see if you really want to leave your industry... :) Sorry that was long, hopefully helpful!
122 weeks ago
Amanda Christianson: Yes, helpful! This reinforces lots of research I've already done, and it's always reassuring to have info backed up by others.
121 weeks ago
 
Thao Le How many career changes does it take to find "the one"?

122 weeks ago from Career Changers

Erin Murtagh: I think some people change careers their entire life, or even balance more than one career at a time. And I hate to be pessimistic but you may ...MoreI think some people change careers their entire life, or even balance more than one career at a time. And I hate to be pessimistic but you may never find "the one"...but you may find a hobby that is "the one"...and if you like your job (like not love) then you'll be a step ahead of many people.
121 weeks ago
Patricia Stewart: Statistics show that people now in the career seeking field will change their jobs at least 17 times until they find the one they desire to do for ...MoreStatistics show that people now in the career seeking field will change their jobs at least 17 times until they find the one they desire to do for the rest of their life. I just decided to own my own business and go out on a limb.
116 weeks ago
Interests
architecture, infrastructure, urban design, green building and sustainability, cooking
Specialties
Architecture and Architectural Project Management, LEED AP

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