Here's how you can establish clear expectations and goals with your boss in structural engineering.
In structural engineering, like in any other field, having a clear understanding with your boss about your job expectations and goals is crucial for career growth and project success. This process involves proactive communication, understanding the scope of your role, aligning with the company's vision, and setting achievable targets. By doing so, you can ensure that you and your boss are on the same page, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and professional development opportunities. Establishing these expectations is not just about meeting deadlines or achieving milestones; it's about creating a roadmap for your career and contributing effectively to your team and projects.
Before diving into project work, schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss your role in detail. Use this opportunity to clarify your job description and the expectations associated with it. Ask about the specific responsibilities you'll have as a structural engineer, including design, analysis, and project management tasks. Understanding what your boss expects from you in terms of deliverables, timelines, and quality standards is essential. This meeting is also the perfect time to express your career aspirations and how you see yourself growing within the company. A transparent dialogue will set a solid foundation for your professional relationship and future interactions.
-
Gabriel Macaulay (R.Engr, GMIStructE, MNIStructE, Lean SS)
Member, Humanitarian & International Development Panel, IStructE. I am a structural engineer well versed in RC buildings, Steelworks & foundation design. Climate Actions advocate.. All views here are personal.
Initial meeting is very important on a project. This meeting is for clarification on the project and what your role is on the project. Background to the project would be discussed, you can as well ask your boss what is expectation on the project and from you are. This meeting gives you a good leverage for the project, communication channel is identified and mechanism of escalation and in what order are clarified on. Ask questions for clarification on the project, do not shy off. This meeting gives you the right guidance on the project, helps you set out properly for the project and helps in meeting your boss's expectations.
Understanding the full scope of your role is imperative in structural engineering, where projects are complex and multidisciplinary. Discuss with your boss the extent of your responsibilities, such as whether you'll be involved in onsite assessments, client meetings, or cross-departmental collaborations. Clarify which aspects of structural engineering you will be focusing on, be it earthquake engineering, facade engineering, or another specialty. Knowing the boundaries of your position will help you manage your workload effectively and avoid overstepping or underperforming. It also allows you to identify areas where you can expand your expertise or suggest improvements to current processes.
-
Gabriel Macaulay (R.Engr, GMIStructE, MNIStructE, Lean SS)
Member, Humanitarian & International Development Panel, IStructE. I am a structural engineer well versed in RC buildings, Steelworks & foundation design. Climate Actions advocate.. All views here are personal.
In most cases, there are well versed scope of work document for you to study for a project you're to embark on. The scope of work (SOW) document details the extent of work you are to carry out for the project,in this case, the structural engineering aspect of the project. You need to study the SOW document very well for full understanding of what needs to be done. Number of structures entities would be clear, types of the structure, and any other supports you need to provide on the project is clearly defined. It is important to ask for SOW and study it for full understanding at the commencement of the project. You may ask your boss as well further to ensure that all his intents are captured. This guarantees boss's satisfaction.
Aligning your goals with the company's vision is key to ensuring your efforts contribute to the broader objectives. Inquire about the company's strategic plan and how the structural engineering department fits into it. Understanding the long-term goals of your organization will help you see where your projects fit into the bigger picture. It also provides insight into potential opportunities for professional growth and development within the company. Make sure to discuss how your personal career goals can align with these objectives, allowing for a mutually beneficial relationship between you and your employer.
Setting realistic and measurable targets with your boss is essential for tracking your progress and demonstrating your contributions. Discuss the types of projects you will work on and establish clear milestones and deadlines. If you're working towards a professional certification or license, such as becoming a Professional Engineer (PE), communicate this goal and how it can benefit both you and the company. Setting targets also includes identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) that will be used to evaluate your work. Having these benchmarks in place ensures that you have a clear direction and can stay focused on achieving your goals.
Establishing a feedback loop is crucial for continuous improvement and maintaining clear expectations. Agree on a regular schedule for performance reviews or check-ins with your boss to discuss your progress towards your goals. Use these meetings to address any challenges you're facing, ask for feedback on recent projects, and refine your targets if necessary. Constructive feedback is invaluable in structural engineering, where designs and calculations must be precise and up to code. A regular feedback loop helps you stay aligned with expectations and provides opportunities for learning and growth.
Finally, discussing your long-term career path is an essential part of setting expectations with your boss. Talk about the advancement opportunities within the company, such as leading a team or specializing in a niche area of structural engineering. Understand what competencies and experiences you need to develop to reach these goals. By having this conversation early on, you can work together with your boss to create a plan that helps you progress in your career while contributing to the company's success. It's a strategic approach that benefits both parties and fosters a supportive working environment.
Rate this article
More relevant reading
-
Structural EngineeringHere's how you can foster a positive relationship with your boss as a structural engineer.
-
Structural EngineeringWhat do you do if your boss doubts your skills in structural engineering?
-
Structural EngineeringWhat do you do if you want to solve problems like an experienced structural engineer?
-
Structural EngineeringHere's how you can make your structural engineering employees feel valued and appreciated.