Finding Jobs, Securing Interviews and Creating Opportunities

You’re looking for a job, but with so many applicants and not enough jobs to go around you need some help. You may have heard the old saying “the early bird gets the worm,” well what about this one: The wise applicant is always on time! In fact, it’s more like being early than late because that first impression can be all-important.

To become an architect of your own destiny (pun intended), Stephen Drew, Jack Moran and Will Ridgway will show us how we might increase our chances by creating opportunities where there are none; find unadvertised openings from industry professionals themselves in Architecture; secure interviews before someone else does – or even better yet snags up those coveted positions right out from under them.

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How to Get Noticed and Secure Interviews at Architecture Practices

Navigating the architecture job market can be daunting, especially for recent graduates or those seeking opportunities in competitive environments. In a recent conversation, Stephen Drew, founder of Architecture Social, and his team shared actionable strategies to help aspiring architects stand out and land interviews. Their advice centers on proactivity, personalization, and persistence, offering a roadmap to finding success in today’s challenging job market.

The Limitations of Job Boards

Job boards, while a popular starting point, can often be a double-edged sword. Stephen Drew noted that they are highly competitive, with hundreds of applicants vying for the same role. “The first thing people think of is to check job boards, but these roles attract enormous numbers of applications,” he explained. The result? Lower chances of standing out and securing an interview.

Instead of solely relying on job boards, Drew and his team advocate for a proactive approach—targeting practices directly, even if they haven’t advertised a vacancy. By doing so, applicants often bypass the high volume of competition associated with public listings, improving their chances significantly.

Personalized Outreach: The Key to Success

One of the standout pieces of advice from the discussion was the importance of personalized communication. Instead of sending generic applications, take the time to research individual practices. This means:

• Exploring their website: Identify projects they’ve worked on, company values, and team composition.
• Customizing your message: Start with a brief, specific introduction about why you admire their work and how your skills align with their projects.

A standout email might say, “I recently saw your project [Project Name] receive planning permission. Congratulations! I’m a Part II Assistant with proficiency in Revit and experience in [specific relevant skill]. I would love to contribute to your team. Please find my CV and portfolio attached.”

This level of personalization not only demonstrates genuine interest but also positions you as a proactive and engaged candidate.

The Power of Networking

Networking, both online and in-person, plays a crucial role in finding hidden opportunities. Many practices never advertise their openings, relying instead on referrals and internal networks to fill roles. Will Ridgway emphasized the importance of building connections, whether through LinkedIn, industry events, or professional organizations like the RIBA.

Attending events, even virtual ones, can lead to unexpected opportunities. Ridgway shared a story of meeting a candidate at an architecture event who made such a strong impression that he later secured a role at a prestigious firm. “He was present, professional, and hungry for an opportunity,” Ridgway recalled. This highlights that personal interactions often leave a lasting impression that no email or application can replicate.

Rejection: A Learning Opportunity

Rejection is an inevitable part of the job hunt, but how you handle it can set you apart. Drew shared his own experiences of sending out hundreds of applications during the 2009 recession and facing numerous rejections. Instead of being discouraged, he used the feedback to refine his approach and improve.

If a practice responds to say there are no roles available, take the opportunity to ask for feedback. A simple question like, “Could you offer any advice on how I might strengthen my application for future opportunities?” shows maturity and a commitment to improvement. Often, these conversations can leave a positive impression, and you may be considered for future roles.

Building a Systematic Approach

Job hunting requires structure and consistency. Drew advised creating a personalized “job board” system—a spreadsheet to track practices, application statuses, and follow-ups. This allows you to stay organized and maintain momentum. The process could look like this:

1. Identify local practices: Start with those closest to you and expand your search geographically.
2. Research and contact: Use a mix of personalized emails and follow-up phone calls.
3. Track outcomes: Document responses, interviews, and feedback.

By systematically targeting practices, you’re not only increasing your chances but also gaining invaluable insight into the industry.

Persistence Pays Off

Breaking into architecture requires a combination of skill, strategy, and resilience. The proactive approach outlined by Drew and his team empowers candidates to create their own opportunities rather than waiting for them to appear. Whether it’s sending tailored emails, networking at events, or learning from rejection, every step moves you closer to landing the right role.

For those navigating the architecture job market, remember: success often comes to those who make their own luck. Put yourself out there, stay persistent, and seize every opportunity.