GGInsights: Q&A with Office Manager Linda Beauchamp

Linda Beauchamp joined the Gillis Gilkerson team in June 2023 as Office Manager. Originally from Yale, Michigan, Linda moved to the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her family soon after graduating from High School.  With almost a decade of administrative experience in the construction industry, Linda has quickly become an integral part of day-to-day efforts. Linda works alongside project managers, superintendents, and office staff to ensure tasks are efficiently organized.

Q&A Questions:

 In a nutshell, how would you describe your role as our Office Manager?  

As Office Manager, I have the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of functions and I really enjoy the variety.  I look forward to helping and learning along the way during each new project.  In addition to general office management tasks, I am responsible for establishing contracts, and spend quite a bit of time in our construction management software making sure project managers, superintendents, and our accounting team all have access to up-to-date documentation.  I enjoy staying organized and anticipating the needs of our staff and clients. 

How long have you been a part of the Gillis Gilkerson team? What initially drew you to this field / role? 

I am celebrating nine months with the Gillis Gilkerson team in March.  I really enjoy the construction industry, because you get to be a part of something from start to finish.  It’s incredibly rewarding following a project from concept to completion.  One day, blueprints are being delivered, and the next thing you know, you are driving by a completed building!  The work Gillis Gilkerson does every day really does leave a lasting mark on our community, and it feels great to be a part of that.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my role as Office Manager is feeling like I am part of a team.  This company is full of talented, fun and kind-hearted people, and I am so grateful that I get to work with this group every day.  It feels so good to know that the experience and skill sets that I have are needed and appreciated.

How do you approach managing and coordinating projects? Any strategies you find most effective? 

Effective communication is key!   Everyone has slightly different communication styles, so getting to know the people I am working with and asking questions along the way helps me develop strategies for the future to successfully communicate with the wide range of people that I come in contact with.  From subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, clients, superintendents, and project managers; developing relationships and basic rapport goes a long way to streamline the exchange of information when timeliness is vital. 

What are some challenges you face in your role? How do you overcome them? 

New projects are always a challenge, and I am still learning as I go. Each new job has its own set of challenges and parameters that I need to learn how to handle.  Asking questions, and maintaining excellent communication is the best way to overcome the unknown.  We have such knowledgeable, friendly people here at Gillis Gilkerson, I never feel like I am without a helpful resource when I am unsure.  When in doubt, just ask!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in construction? 

Go for it!  It is such a rewarding industry to be a part of and we need more young people to enter not only the construction field, but also the skilled trades.  There are so many opportunities in the field for young people to take advantage of training programs and it’s a great growth field for women.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests? How do you unwind and recharge? 

I love staying healthy, working out and spending time with my family and my adorable dog Lucy.  I enjoy traveling, going to concerts and spending time at the beach.  I love being outside, and often take my lunchbreak at the park to enjoy nature and some sunshine before returning to the office.

What is the hottest/favorite lunch place on our team right now? 

My co-worker Jamie recently introduced the office to Manna Asian Cuisine’s build-your-own freestyle poke bowls – and it’s become my new favorite carry-out treat.  Turns out my kids have known about Manna for ages and eat there all the time!  I really enjoy experimenting with the different topping combinations and trying new things.