Adam Hawthorne is a Business Development professional at Choate Construction Company, where he focuses on building meaningful, long-term relationships that drive trust, collaboration, and sustainable growth. Throughout the episode, Adam shares how his role goes far beyond sales metrics, emphasizing the human side of business development in the construction industry. His perspective highlights the importance of authenticity, consistency, and clear communication when working with clients, partners, and internal teams. With experience navigating complex projects and diverse stakeholders, Adam brings a grounded and people-first approach to leadership that aligns closely with Choate Construction’s values and culture.
You can connect with Adam on LinkedIn and learn more about his company at Choate Construction Company.
This episode of The Power of Design Podcast explores how leadership and business development intersect through genuine human connection. Adam explains that in construction, success is rarely transactional; instead, it is built over time through trust, reliability, and shared values. He discusses how strong relationships can positively impact everything from project outcomes to company reputation, especially in an industry where collaboration between owners, architects, engineers, and builders is critical.
Adam also reflects on the evolving expectations of clients, noting that today’s leaders must be proactive listeners and problem solvers. Rather than focusing solely on winning projects, he emphasizes understanding client needs, anticipating challenges, and aligning teams around a common vision. This mindset, he explains, leads to better projects, stronger partnerships, and more resilient businesses.
Adam highlights that authenticity is the foundation of effective business development. People want to work with individuals they trust, and that trust is built by showing up consistently, being honest, and delivering on promises.
One of the strongest themes in the conversation is the value of listening. Adam explains that leaders who listen carefully gain deeper insight into client goals, team dynamics, and potential risks, allowing them to respond more strategically.
Rather than chasing immediate results, Adam advocates for a long-term perspective. Building relationships that last creates repeat business, referrals, and a stronger professional network over time.
Adam stresses that successful construction projects depend on collaboration. When teams communicate openly and respect each other’s expertise, the entire process becomes more efficient and rewarding.
In industries driven by complexity and scale, relationships often matter more than resumes or proposals. Adam’s experience shows that people remember how you made them feel and how you handled challenges together.
Small, consistent actions—following up, being prepared, and staying engaged—are what build credibility over time. Adam explains that trust is earned gradually, not through grand gestures.
Adam reframes leadership as a form of service. Supporting clients, empowering teams, and helping others succeed ultimately strengthens both personal and organizational impact.
Clear and proactive communication can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts before they escalate. Adam emphasizes that transparency is especially critical in construction, where many moving parts must align.
This episode reinforces the idea that leadership in business development is not about pushing agendas, but about creating alignment and trust. Adam Hawthorne’s insights demonstrate how a connection-driven approach can lead to better outcomes for clients, teams, and companies alike. By prioritizing relationships, listening actively, and committing to long-term value, leaders can navigate complex industries with confidence and integrity.
For professionals in construction, design, or any relationship-driven field, this conversation offers a powerful reminder: meaningful success is built through people, not just projects.