Getting a job nowadays is not that easy anymore especially if you are in a field where there is just too much competition. One example is the field of architecture. Every year, hundreds of graduates all over the country from different schools attempt to enter the professional world of architecture. Some of them have the skills, some have the talents, and others have both.
Because the competition can be tough, and the demand for architect jobs is greater than the supply, getting an architectural job is not something that would take overnight. But of course, you should not lose hope that easily. By knowing what employers need, you will have a better edge over other architectural applicants.
This article seeks to give you practical information, tips, and advice regarding application for an architectural position. What is great about this is that these pieces of advice come directly from the employers themselves so you can be sure that you are on the right track.
Resume Advice
The resume is the first thing an employer will get to know about your interest for applying with their firm. Because of this, it is imperative that you send out an impressive resume that would detail your competencies and skills. Include a personalized cover letter that will highlight your experience. Do not turn it into a novel, as two-three paragraphs will suffice.
Employers further advise applicants to send their resumes in the standard format. They think that graphics and unusual formats are interesting but they are not helpful and are inconvenient to file. It also will not be necessary to send massive work sample files that are difficult to print out.
It is suggested to put your resume in Word or pdf format so that it would be easier for them to read it. Make sure that your file is safe and not corrupt. Remember, an architect job search and employee search can be long and tedious. Employers are very busy with their own work so they will not have the luxury of time trying to figure out how to open your resume file.
Architectural employers also emphasize on the need to make personalized and well-written cover letters. They say that it is a big turnoff if they received cover letters that have errors on spelling or grammar, or start with impersonal salutations such as Dear Sir, Dear Hiring Manager, and so on. This reflects an applicant’s lack of attention to details.
Portfolio presentation and content
The presentation and content of the portfolio are equally important. For the content, you will need to put in works that will highlight a combination of technical work and creative design. Employers are always looking for applicants who will be both good in the practical aspect and creative side of architecture. Aside from the cover letter and resume, a portfolio should contain illustrations such as drawings, sketches, works in computer architectural software and some 3D renderings. It is also good if you can add some line drawings, DD sets, CD sets, physical models, and prototypes.
A portfolio should also contain photos of completed works that would show a range of skills and competencies that you have. But do not put in too much. Always keep in mind that an employer do not have all the time in the world to view every work you have done in the recent years. Just the best of what you have done to show what you have accomplished so far is enough.
Keep in mind that an impressive content in your portfolio will give you better chances of getting the architect jobs opening. However, you should also remember that the portfolio presentation is just as essential primarily because architecture is a field of designing.
You cannot expect an employer to get impressed with your work if your portfolio has poor layout and design or lack of organization. The important elements of presentation include design, clarity, spelling and grammar, and the overall impression of professionalism that you would want to present to your employers.
A last note about the portfolio, when your employer views your portfolio in front of you, do not just sit silently and wait for him to say something. Offer insights about your previous works and experiences in a professional manner that would not sound as if you are bragging.
Acing the interview
The interview is another crucial aspect in your application. After the employers deem that your resume and portfolio are worthy, they will call on to you for an interview. This can make or break your application so it is wise to give it your best.
Employers are usually pleased with applicants who appear professional and honest, come on time, speak articulately and concisely, and seem interested with the kind of work being done in their firm.
Especially if you are applying for a higher position like for architect manager jobs or architectural supervisor jobs, it is important to establish that you have the right social skills necessary for upper management.
In addition, you have to take note how crucial nonverbal actions are at this point in your application. Many employers gauge an applicant’s confidence, competency, and working attitude through manner of speaking, handshake, hand gestures, eye contact, and so on.
It is always imperative that you are able to give the right impression not only with the words that come out of your mouth but also with the way you give out nonverbal actions.
Common mistakes of applicants
• Failing to research about the company. Employers are turned off with applicants who do not know a thing about their firm.
• Not offering references. Employers use references to pre-screen their applicants.
• Inaccuracy or dishonesty about work experience. It is not smart to lie on your resume since the employers are bound to find out about it eventually.
• Carelessness in resumes and portfolios. Typographical errors, spelling mistakes and grammatical blunders can easily send an employer away.
These pieces of practical and helpful advice from architectural employers will surely come in handy during your application. Good luck!
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