I met yesterday with a leader of a national construction trade organization to discuss hot-button issues our industry faces as we head into 2026.

We weren't discussing tech skills.

➡️Instead, we were focusing on the critical need for the younger workforce to uplevel their interpersonal communication.

I imagine these takeaways will resonate with you:

1. A/E/C's fragmented ecosystem must be improved to enhance job site safety, messaging, and knowledge transfer.
2. Newer staff must become proficient in decision-making, problem-solving, and other critical thinking skills. Clarifying information and logical thought processes improve job site safety, project completion, and leadership development.
3. Bi-directional knowledge in our multigenerational workforce is essential for continuous learning. Communication is not linear; rather, it is an ongoing process for all generations to embrace.

Here's the truth: Each of these points — along with cybersecurity — is a stark reminder to prioritize ...

The best gift of communication you can offer anyone is the gift of your attention.

It's great year-round. 

🔷It costs nothing and requires no shopping.

🔷There’s no need for fancy wrapping.

Paying close attention requires deep listening skills—fully focusing on the speaker, listening not just to the words but also to tone, body language, and emotions.

You can’t genuinely understand someone else’s perspective if you miss a few words or sentences they are expressing to you.

Learn how to pay attention without distractions. This is priceless. 

Focus on others and block out distractions—no phones, pings, or alerts.😮

Don't try "faking someone out" by acting like you're engaged when you're mentally drifting. 

Forget the email that needs to be sent. 

Forget that the car needs gas. 

Forget about stopping at the store.

The truth is that people notice when you're "checked out." Don't kid yourself.

🎯The better way is to be more self-aware. 

Exceptional communicators catch themselves qu...

Years ago, when I was in high school, I lost my voice for a few days.

I suddenly had laryngitis. 

Couldn't make a sound. 

It was beyond frustrating.

After college, I became a radio news reporter and anchor. 

My voice was my job. I had a degree in communication. 

But even then, I didn't fully believe my opinion or voice mattered. 😮

I second-guessed my worth. 

I stayed quiet when I had something to say. Sound familiar? 

I see the same pattern in 95% of the A/E/C professionals in my coaching and training programs. 

People who are technically capable but hesitate to speak up in client-facing meetings or networking events.

Many in our industry shy away from making small talk and interacting with others.

It's about having more confidence.

Keeping your "nose in your phone" keeps you silent in real life. 

💰The reluctance to use your voice costs your firm millions in lost bids, referrals, and opportunities.💰

A/E/C professionals don't lack ideas; they doubt their value. 

They second-guess themselves.