Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Infill Development • Form-Based Code • Traffic Calming

Placemaking

Term from Urban Planning industry explained for recruiters

Placemaking is an approach to designing and managing public spaces that focuses on creating vibrant, welcoming areas that people want to visit and spend time in. It's like being an architect of community experiences rather than just buildings. Professionals who work in placemaking bring together elements like street furniture, public art, events, and local business involvement to transform ordinary spaces into lively community hubs. Similar concepts include urban design, public space activation, and community planning. Think of it as creating the "living rooms" of a city where people naturally want to gather, interact, and build community connections.

Examples in Resumes

Led Placemaking initiatives to transform underutilized downtown spaces into active community gathering areas

Developed Placemaking strategies that increased foot traffic by 50% in local business districts

Coordinated Placemaking and Public Space Activation projects involving community workshops and temporary installations

Applied Creative Placemaking principles to design inclusive public spaces that reflect local culture

Typical job title: "Placemaking Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Urban Designer Public Space Coordinator Community Design Specialist Urban Planner Place Manager Community Engagement Coordinator Public Space Activator

Where to Find Placemaking Specialists

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a challenging placemaking project you managed and how you overcame obstacles?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders, budget management, and creative problem-solving. They should discuss community engagement, working with local government, and measuring project success.

Q: How do you ensure placemaking projects are inclusive and serve diverse community needs?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should demonstrate experience with community outreach, understanding of accessibility needs, cultural sensitivity, and methods for gathering and incorporating diverse community feedback.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What strategies would you use to activate an underused public plaza?

Expected Answer: Candidates should discuss practical approaches like programming events, adding seating or art installations, working with local businesses, and methods for gathering community input.

Q: How do you measure the success of a placemaking project?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of both quantitative metrics (foot traffic, dwell time, business revenue) and qualitative measures (community feedback, social interaction, sense of belonging).

Junior Level Questions

Q: What do you think makes a successful public space?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic elements like accessibility, safety, comfort, activities, and community engagement. Look for understanding of how people use public spaces.

Q: How would you approach gathering community input for a new project?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic community engagement methods like surveys, workshops, social media outreach, and working with community groups.