Many AEC firms rely on relationships to drive new work. But as competition increases, relationships alone are no longer enough. The firms that continue to grow are the ones that pair trust with clearer positioning, stronger client strategy, and a better understanding of where their clients are headed next.

As AI-generated content floods LinkedIn, AEC marketers face a bigger challenge: protecting differentiation, perspective, and brand voice.

Business development in AEC comes with an endless number of directions you could go. The challenge is figuring out which opportunities actually deserve your attention. These filters help firms focus their efforts, align with strategic goals, and pursue growth more intentionally.

What do clients actually say about your firm when you’re not in the room? External perception studies reveal the patterns, gaps, and opportunities that don’t surface in day-to-day interactions, but often shape who gets hired and who doesn’t.

There's a new Fellow in the house! Kayla McCause, FSMPS, CPSM, has been named to the 2026 SMPS Class of Fellows, recognizing her leadership and impact in AEC marketing and business development.

From First-Time Attendee to Industry Peer Three years ago, I walked into my first SMPS NERC conference as a scholarship recipient, eager to learn and explore the AEC world outside of my DC chapter. This year, I walked into NERC in my hometown of Washington, DC—during peak cherry blossom season—surrounded by familiar faces, stronger connections, and a very different sense of confidence. What once felt new and overwhelming now felt familiar and validating, a full circle moment