Changing Perceptions: NAWIC UK Working Session

The session will be focused on exploring ways to change the perceived image that the construction industry has in order to attract talent.

We will question, for example:
•How the stock photography used in brochures etc can contribute to changing stereotypes.
•What are positive approaches when looking at presenting the industry and representing yourself, your practice and your "profession"/trade in the context of the work environment and that of social media.

The format will be a short 10 minute long presentation by each one of the panellists in which each can introduce their work in the context of the discussion followed by an open debate (set as a working session) from which we will , hopefully, draw up some conclusions to be published and made available online.

Panellists:

Caroline Wolf, Executive Style Director

Caroline works with professionals as coach and stylists to help them develop a way to present themselves that sits comfortably with who they are and the companies they represent. In the context of the construction industry, as the levels of formality vary from site to client meetings, the appropriate choice of language and presence is a topic worth exploring.

Morley von Sternberg, Portrait Photographer

Morley’s work is very personal both for himself and his subjects. His compositions tell a story that explores who his subjects are and shapes the way that they are perceived. In the context of social media and internet, where we use photographs to represent us, our company or our profession, there are key considerations to be made.

Janie Ayre, Stock Photography Photographer

Janie has first-hand experience in producing Stock photography, and an overview of the opportunities available within such a context in terms of creating an industry specific pool of information that is more diverse and accessible and that can look at showcasing the varied nature of the industry.

Lorna Soar, PR & Marketing Strategist

Lorna’s work is at the heart of the industry. With projects such as “Architects in Practice” and “Faces of British architecture”, Lorna has been exploring the nature of the session’s topic for a long time, and will bring to the panel an experienced point of view in shaping perceptions.