Building a Portfolio
To stand out in the architecture job market, your portfolio needs to be more than just a collection of your work. First, tailor it to the firm you’re applying to, highlighting projects that resonate with their style or values. Show your process, not just the end result. Include industry experience first, followed by personal projects or competitions you’ve entered; they can showcase your passion and initiative. And remember, presentation is key—make it visually engaging and easy to navigate. Lastly, be ready to talk about each project with enthusiasm and insight during interviews. Your portfolio is not just what you’ve done, but a glimpse into what you can do for them.
Tailoring a CV
Start by tailoring your CV for the role / job title you are applying for, making sure to highlight the experiences and skills. Keep the layout clean and easy on the eyes, using headings and bullet points to guide the reader through your professional journey. Wherever you can, quantify your success with concrete examples. Aim to keep your CV concise, ideally on one page but no more than two. Kick things off with a brief personal statement that captures your essence and why you’re a fantastic fit for the role. Lastly, even the most impressive CV can be undone by a simple typo, so proofread it meticulously. First impressions count, and your CV is often your first shot at showing a potential employer what you’re made of.
Write a cover letter
Start by personalizing your letter for each application, addressing it to the specific hiring manager or company owner if possible. This shows you’ve done your homework. Highlight specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the company’s projects or values. Be concise yet engaging, aiming to spark curiosity rather than detailing every career move. Use your cover letter to show a bit of your personality and how it fits with the company culture. Lastly, end with a strong closing statement, expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to their team and eagerness to discuss your potential fit further.
Prepare for the interview
Well done on the interview! Start by thoroughly researching the firm you’re interviewing with. Understand their projects, culture, and what they value in their team members, don’t be afraid to ask them too! Tailor your portfolio to the interview, selecting projects that resonate with their work or demonstrate skills they’re looking for. Practice discussing your projects succinctly, focusing on your role, challenges you overcame, and the impact of your work. Lastly, remember that interviews are a two-way street. Be yourself and assess if the firm’s values align with your professional goals and personal values. Your authenticity and enthusiasm can be the differentiating factor that lands you the job.
Follow up after the interview
Following up after an interview is a crucial step that can set you apart. Start by sending a personalized thank you email within 24 hours to each person you interviewed with. In your email, express gratitude for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly mention a highlight or specific topic you enjoyed discussing—this shows you were engaged and attentive. If there was a question you wished you had answered differently or an aspect of your experience you didn’t get to discuss, this is a subtle opportunity to touch on it. If you haven’t heard back by the time they indicated they’d make a decision, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email inquiring about the timeline a few days after.
Networking
Networking is your unfair advantage in the architecture industry. Start by attending events like Nerdworking or YADA to mingle with peers and professionals. Don’t just collect business cards—connect by sharing your passion and curiosity about architecture. Online, LinkedIn is your digital portfolio; make it vibrant with your projects, thoughts, and professional milestones. Engage in discussions, offering your insights. This blend of in-person and online networking will not only boost your presence but also create lasting connections that can open doors to new opportunities! That’s how you’re reading this right? I am on here putting myself out there (for better or worse!), now its your turn to share something
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