When Victoria, Grace, James, and Daniel asked all their questions, they walked around the project site. They told Manuchehr Ahadpour how affected they were with the detail and the artistry in his work. Motivated to learn more from him, they invited him to drink coffee with them and they could hear about his caree.
Victoria: Manouchehr, we are
influenced by everything that we hear about your success. How do you continue growing after so many years? What is the secret?
Manouchehr: There is no secret, really. Never stop learning. The industry changes with new technologies and changing clients’ needs. I learn from architects and workers. You know, I still read and keep my mind open.
James: Nice to hear that. Sometimes we need to know everything right away, so it’s comforting to know you’re still learning too.*
Manouchehr: Absolutely, James. No one knows everything. Try keep on learning and so you will keep growing.
Grace: How do you do that when you’re out in the site and in charge? Some of our past supervisors weren’t exactly the best role models.
Manouchehr: Leadership is about trusting and allowing through team building. I used to think that the leader should be expert in everything in the world; it takes all just to create the right environment for your team to grow. Lead by example, and they follow.
Daniel: So it’s more guiding the team, then?
Manouchehr: Exactly, a good manager takes away obstacles and encourage the team to do their best work. That’s when people really excel.
James: What do you do when you get feedback from the client? Do you make changes based on their input?
Manouchehr: It all focuses on the client, for it is them who will use what we are building, so their feedback is of great importance. Not only is it important to listen to them but also to understand what they really need.
Victoria: Okay, if you can think of any project on which client feedback did make a big difference?
Manouchehr: Plenty! For example, a client wanted something modern, but after more discussion we changed to a practical design, which they loved.
Grace: How do you ensure your projects are green?
Manouchehr: Each project should be eco-friendly. I always think about the people who will use the space; is it safe, comfortable or energy-efficient? we should think about the future and not just for today.
Daniel: It’s very well. You are not just thinking of doing the job.
Manouchehr: I try. What we build today impacts people for generations so it needs to be meaningful.
Victoria: How are you sure that this project will stand the test of time?
Manouchehr: It decreases long-term demand, the location, environmental risks, sustainability and adaptability. And of course, it needs to make financial sense. We have to balance today’s needs with a vision for the future.
James: So, solve today’s problems while you plan for tomorrow?
Manouchehr: Exactly. It is a balancing act, but over time, you develop an intuition for it.
Grace: That’s so helpful. We have learned so much.
Manouchehr: I’m glad you think so. Keep learning, lead with honesty, and always consider long term goals.
