One of the most valuable aspects of earning the CDFO (Certificate in Design Firm Operations) is the way it connects leadership theory to practical application in the A/E industry. The CDFO isn’t just another credential — it’s a roadmap for understanding how operations, finance, people, and leadership all intersect to strengthen a firm.

John Maxwell’s 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership makes one thing crystal clear: leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. Titles, job descriptions, or authority might get short-term compliance, but they don’t inspire long-term loyalty or commitment. Authentic leadership happens when people choose to follow you — not because they must, but because they want to.

Influence Over Authority

Think about the best leader you’ve worked with. Chances are, it wasn’t their title that inspired you. Instead, it was their ability to connect, to communicate vision, and to make you feel part of something bigger than yourself. That’s the essence of influence.

By contrast, positional authority might secure short-term results, but it often creates dependency and fear. Influence builds trust, ownership, and momentum that outlasts a single project or even a leader’s presence.

What Does Influence as a Leadership Style Look Like?

When leaders adopt influence as their style, they move away from “command and control” and lean into inspiration and collaboration. Here are a few ways it shows up:

• Integrity and Character – People follow leaders they believe in.
• Relationships and Trust – Influence grows out of genuine connection, not transactions.
• Knowledge and Credibility – Expertise creates confidence in decision-making.
• Vision and Communication – A compelling “why” inspires others to commit.
• Consistency in Actions – Influence is earned every day, not in a single moment.

Real-World A/E Examples of Influence in Action

Influence isn’t reserved for the CEO or principal. It shows up across our firms in roles that, at first glance, might not look like “leadership” positions — but the impact is undeniable.

• The Controller Who Shapes Strategy
  Even without being in a line position, a Controller with deep financial expertise can influence executive leadership. By identifying trends such as increases in chargeability or a decline in project multipliers, the Controller provides insights that directly impact decisions on staffing, pricing, and project delivery. Their credibility makes them a trusted advisor, and their influence extends beyond the accounting department to the entire firm’s bottom line.
• The Operations Professional Who Understands Contracts
  An operations person who knows the ins and outs of contract language may not sign agreements, but their guidance helps project managers avoid pitfalls. By highlighting scope risks, billing terms, or liability concerns, they influence project setup and execution, saving the firm from costly missteps and strengthening client relationships.
• The PMA Who Masters Scheduling
  A Project Management Assistant (PMA) who truly understands scheduling can anticipate resource conflicts before they become roadblocks. By providing clear, data-driven recommendations, they influence how project managers allocate people, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Their influence ensures smoother delivery and greater client satisfaction — all without holding the official title of “project manager.”

These examples show that leadership through influence is alive across every discipline of an A/E firm. Expertise, credibility, and a willingness to share knowledge give professionals the ability to shape outcomes and elevate the entire organization.

Influence Creates Multipliers

The real power of influence is its ripple effect. A leader who models integrity, shares knowledge, and invests in people creates followers who in turn become leaders themselves. Influence multiplies through culture — shaping the way people treat each other, solve problems, and pursue goals long after the leader steps aside.

Practicing Influence Every Day

Leaders don’t wake up one morning suddenly influential. It’s a daily choice, built over time. Some practical steps:

• Listen more than you talk. Influence starts with understanding.
• Give credit generously. Recognition builds trust and loyalty.
• Mentor and empower. Help others succeed, and your influence grows naturally.
• Stay consistent. People respect what they can predict and rely on.

Final Thought

Influence isn’t just one aspect of leadership — it’s the essence of leadership. Authority may move people’s hands, but influence moves their hearts. And when hearts are engaged, results follow.

Leadership isn’t about the position you hold; it’s about the difference you make. Influence isn’t a tool in the leader’s toolkit — it is the toolkit.

If you’re ready to strengthen your leadership and influence in the A/E industry, the next step is clear: pursue the CDFO certification. It’s more than a credential — it’s an investment in yourself, your career, and the success of your firm.  

Apply for the CDFO today and take the next step in your leadership journey.

Where do you have the most opportunity to lead through influence in your current role? Share in the comments below how you’re applying (or plan to apply) this kind of leadership in your daily work. 

SDA does not endorse any products or services mentioned, and SDA does not assume responsibility for any circumstances arising out of the interpretation, application, use, or misuse of any information presented. SDA recommends that the reader consult the appropriate legal, financial, or human resource counsel before implementing the information contained herein.

Signing up for something like EDSymposium25 in Lexington, Kentucky was a mix of excitement and nerves. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would I get lost in the crowd? Would the sessions be over my head? Would I spend the whole time wishing I had brought a buddy?

Turns out, I didn’t need one. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and genuinely energizing. Everyone was open, curious, and eager to connect. If you’re even slightly considering going next year, especially if it’ll be your first time, I say go for it. You’ll be so glad you did.

The whole experience was a mix of energizing sessions, practical takeaways, and casual introductions, many of which turned into real conversations and lasting professional connections. There was also that instant spark of recognition when you realize someone else truly gets the challenges you face every day.

One of the most memorable sessions was Carla Howard’s “Critical Thinking” workshop. She introduced us to her Critical Thinking Skill Stack, a practical, actionable framework designed to sharpen the way we think, solve problems, and communicate at work. We explored how to be curious, listen intently, analyze information, offer solutions, make decisions, and communicate crisply. 

I came away realizing I’m pretty strong in the listening department—focused, present, and tuned in. But my communication needs a little work. Knowing what I want to say isn’t the same as saying it clearly, especially in high-stakes or emotional moments. Carla’s framework helped me see that gap and gave me the tools to start closing it. This is where the catchphrase “Eureka!” was born. It became the theme or “inside joke” of the conference, popping up in later conversations and in other sessions.

My favorite session overall was “R(AI)sing Your AI IQ” with Kristin Kautz. I’d been curious about AI for a while but hadn’t had the time (or brain space!) to fully dive in. Kristin made it click. She broke things down in a way that was practical and empowering, not overwhelming. It wasn’t about replacing our creativity, it was about giving us time back to focus on it. (And yes, that “Eureka!” energy definitely carried over into this session too, the lightbulb moments just kept coming.) I left buzzing with ideas and have already started putting a few of them into practice. I’ve begun using AI tools like ChatGPT regularly, both at home and at work, and I’m not kidding when I say it is my new best friend. 

Carla also gave the Keynote Breakfast: Courageous Conversations, which had us digging into self-awareness, personal brand, and how to lead ourselves well before we try to lead anyone else. She had us reflecting on how others perceive us (not always a comfortable thought, but definitely a necessary one) and helped us think through how to show up more intentionally. It was heartfelt, real, and a perfect way to start the day.

As someone without a local chapter (I'm a member-at-large), this conference was my first time meeting my fellow SDA members in person. Until now, my experience had been limited to Zoom calls and emails. Being in the same room as others who understood the unique challenges of administrative work in the AEC industry was both validating and invigorating. It reminded me why I joined this organization in the first place: to learn, to connect, and to grow. 

Back at home, my mentor is preparing to take a serious medical leave and I’ll be stepping up to support more of the firm’s operational responsibilities. Attending EDS25 felt like the perfect way to prepare. I came home with fresh perspective, new tools, and renewed momentum. And if anyone back at the office needs help figuring out how AI can make their workday a little easier—well, I might just be your girl now.

To anyone on the fence: say yes. You don’t need to have all the answers or know a single soul in the room. EDS is the kind of experience that meets you where you are and gives you the inspiration, knowledge, and connections to take the next step forward.

A huge thank you to everyone who made EDS25 such a meaningful and memorable experience, and to the Past Presidents Council for offering me the grant that made it possible. I’m so glad I went and am even more excited for what’s ahead.

We’d love to hear from you! What part of Teagan’s first EDSymposium experience resonated most with you? Share your reflections in the comments below! And if you’ve attended EDSymposium before—what was your biggest “Eureka!” moment? If you haven’t, what would you hope to take away from your first time? Your insight might inspire someone else to take that leap next year! 

In a world that never stops moving, time often feels elusive. We juggle work, family, and personal goals—yet somehow, the things we want to do always get pushed aside. Have you ever felt busy all day, only to wonder what you actually accomplished? 

Whether you're preparing for the CDFO exam, leading a team, or simply trying to find time to breathe, let’s explore practical strategies to beat procrastination, increase efficiency, and reclaim time for what is truly most important to you.

Why we procrastinate, and how to break the cycle

Procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s often a response to fear of failure, feeling overwhelmed, or having a lack of clarity. The key is to start small and build momentum. 

At EDS25, speaker Carla Howard reflected on the time management technique known as “Eat the Frog.”  If it’s your job to eat a frog, do it first thing in the morning—it’s likely the worst thing you’ll face all day. The “frog” represents your most challenging task. Tackling it first gives you a sense of accomplishment that fuels the rest of your day.

Break tasks into micro-steps. 

Instead of: “I need to study for the CDFO,” try: “I’ll review one section for 20 minutes.” This micro-commitment lowers resistance and gets you moving.

Time Management Techniques

If frogs aren’t your thing, here are other effective time management techniques:

• Pomodoro Technique:  Work in focused 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks. After four sessions, take a longer break. Great for maintaining energy and focus.
• Time Blocking: Schedule your day in blocks dedicated to specific tasks. This minimizes distractions and ensures time is allocated to what matters.
• Eisenhower Matrix: Prioritize tasks by urgency and importance. Focus on what’s important, not just what’s screaming for attention.
• The 2-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. It clears mental clutter and builds momentum.

Automate and Delegate

Efficiency isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing less of what doesn’t matter. What tasks can you eliminate? Ask yourself: Am I being busy, or am I being effective?

• Use automation tools like Zapier, Notion, or Google Calendar to handle repetitive tasks.
• Delegate tasks that don’t require your unique skills.
• Batch similar tasks (like emails) to reduce context switching. (Wearing too many hats hurts your brain!)

Learn to say “No”

Is the task your responsibility, or are you stepping in to be helpful?  Saying no to tasks that drain your time and distract you from your priorities is a vital time management skill.  Learning to say “no” is part of practicing assertive communication and setting healthy boundaries.  If you need to say no, offer an alternative solution. 

What to Do With the Time You Save?

As you advance in your career and leadership, maximizing efficiency empowers you to choose how to utilize your reclaimed time.

• Do another task. Yes, if you’re building momentum towards a goal you've set for yourself.
•  Meditate or journal. Self-care is a way to recharge your mind.
• Travel or explore. Absolutely! A simple walk outside can energize you.
• Stop and smell the roses.   Literally, be present. Living in the moment is powerful.
• Schedule “white space” in your calendar—time with no agenda. White space gives you room to focus and reset, freeing you from constant reactivity, replacing it with intentional, distraction-free time for productive work.

Lead by example

If you’re in a leadership role, your time habits set the tone for your team. Model the following:

• Prioritization over busyness
• Boundaries over burnout
• Purpose over pressure

Empower your team to work smarter—not harder.

Studying for the CDFO? You’ve got this!

If preparing for the new Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO) exam feels daunting, SDA has resources at your fingertips. Join a study group or find an accountability partner. Use the strategies above to break your study plan into manageable pieces, and reward yourself after each session to reinforce the habit.

Time Is a tool—use it with intention. 

Time management isn’t about squeezing more into your day. It’s about making space for what matters most. When you master your time, you reclaim your energy, your focus, and your freedom to enjoy what matters most to you.

You don’t need more hours in the day—you need more intention in the hours you already have. What time management tips have been useful for you? Share them in the comment box below.

Spotlight Resources:

CDFO Information and Application

Online resources:  SDA Blog Article - That One Thing