What makes a good Architecture CV?

In this workshop session, Stephen Drew and Will Ridgway discuss how a good CV could land you an interview as the next architect.

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Building the Perfect Architecture CV: Expert Tips for Standing Out

Crafting a compelling CV and portfolio can make the difference between landing your dream architecture job and being overlooked. In a competitive industry, your CV isn’t just a summary of your experience—it’s your first opportunity to showcase your design skills and professionalism. Drawing on the insights of Stephen Drew, founder of the Architecture Social, and recruitment specialists Jack Moran and Will Ridgway, this article outlines the do’s and don’ts of creating an impactful CV and portfolio for architecture professionals.

The CV as a Professional Document

Your CV is not merely a document; it’s your personal advertisement. Stephen emphasized that a CV should clearly communicate your education, professional experience, software proficiency, and achievements in a concise format. Here are the essential elements every architecture CV should include:

• Contact Information: Keep this at the top of the page. Ensure your phone number and email address are accurate and prominently displayed. Consider including your LinkedIn profile but avoid unnecessary details like your home address.
• Education and Professional Experience: Present your most recent experiences first. Highlight significant projects, your role, and the software used. Be specific—for example, “Worked on a £20M residential project, RIBA Stages 1-3, using Revit.”
• Skills and Software Proficiency: Avoid vague self-ratings like “7/10 in Revit.” Instead, quantify your experience, such as “Two years’ experience using Revit on commercial projects.”

A clear, legible layout is essential. Use professional fonts like Arial or Calibri and limit your CV to two pages. Keep distractions like flashy colors or backgrounds to a minimum—your content should speak for itself.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Despite its importance, many candidates undermine their CVs with avoidable mistakes. Stephen highlighted a few recurring issues:

1. Spelling Errors: A single typo can leave a lasting negative impression. Have someone proofread your CV to catch mistakes you might overlook.
2. Irrelevant Details: Employers don’t need to know your hobbies unless they’re relevant, such as volunteering in architecture-related activities or leadership roles in student societies.
3. Unexplained Gaps: If you took time off for personal reasons or travel, explain it succinctly. Honesty is better than leaving recruiters guessing.

The Portfolio: Showcasing Your Design Skills

While the CV is your introduction, the portfolio is where your creativity shines. According to Will, a well-crafted portfolio acts as a visual narrative of your architectural journey. Here’s how to make yours stand out:

• Brevity is Key: A portfolio doesn’t need to showcase every project you’ve ever worked on. Select your best work—around five to seven projects that highlight a range of skills, from concept sketches to technical drawings.
• Tailored Content: Customize your portfolio for the role you’re applying for. For example, emphasize technical drawings if the role requires Revit expertise, or feature more conceptual work for design-heavy positions.
• Digital vs. Print: Always send your portfolio as a PDF under 10MB to ensure compatibility with employers’ systems. Save larger, high-resolution files for in-person interviews.
• Presentation Matters: Just as with your CV, your portfolio should have a clean layout. Avoid overwhelming employers with overly artistic backgrounds or distracting graphics.

Software Skills: A Competitive Edge

In today’s architecture market, software proficiency can be a deciding factor. Revit, in particular, is a must-have skill for most large practices. Jack noted that even firms traditionally using other software like AutoCAD or MicroStation are transitioning to BIM platforms.

If you’re new to Revit, don’t let that deter you. Stephen suggested taking the initiative to learn it on your own—online courses or self-guided projects demonstrate a willingness to adapt. Highlighting even basic familiarity with industry-standard tools can set you apart from other candidates.

Cover Letters: A Necessary Addition?

Cover letters often spark debate. While not always mandatory, a concise, well-written cover letter can complement your CV. Use it to explain why you’re a good fit for the role and draw attention to specific experiences or skills relevant to the position. However, keep it brief—recruiters are unlikely to spend much time reading lengthy cover letters.

Final Touches: Professionalism in Delivery

Your CV and portfolio are only as good as their delivery. Avoid these common missteps:

• File Naming: Use a professional format like “FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf.”
• Avoid Links: Don’t rely on platforms like Issuu or Dropbox for your CV or portfolio. Attach them directly to your email as PDFs.
• Email Etiquette: Craft a short, polite email introducing yourself and attach your documents. Avoid copying generic templates—tailor each email to the specific employer.

Making an Impact

Ultimately, your CV and portfolio should be a cohesive representation of your skills, experiences, and personality. They should inspire confidence in your abilities and make employers eager to meet you. By following the advice shared here, you’ll be better equipped to secure interviews and stand out in the competitive field of architecture.

For more expert advice and resources tailored to architecture professionals and students, visit Architecture Social.