Landing your first architecture job out of university can be a daunting task. Naturally, you’d want to start as an architect intern, but it can still feel like you are entering into an unknown world full of experienced professionals who have been doing this for years.
How do you make the transition from student to professional? In this blog post, we sat down with HR experts at Jooble to discuss some tips and advice that can help make the transition a little bit easier. Let’s dive right in!
● Start by gathering your portfolio and résumé
One of the most important things you can do when looking for your first architecture job is a well-organized portfolio and résumé. Make sure that everything is up-to-date and well-written. If you are unsure about your writing skills, consider getting some help from a friend or professional resume writer.
● Polish up your presentation skills
To be successful in architecture, you need to communicate your ideas effectively. This means presenting your work clearly and concisely, both verbally and visually. Practice explaining your work to friends or family members and ask for feedback. Attending some workshops or seminars on presentation skills is another good idea.
● Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions
Career experts believe that it is wise to practice answering common interview questions. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when you go for your interview. The most common questions are about your experience, skills, and goals. Note that there is no right or wrong answer to these questions. You need to be honest; articulate your answers clearly.
● Be professional and respectful to everyone you meet, from your boss to the janitor
When working in an architecture firm, it is essential to be professional and respectful to everyone you meet. This includes your boss, co-workers, and even the janitor. Be humble and give it your all to try and learn as much as you can.
● Enjoy the journey!
Landing your first architecture job is just the beginning of a long and exciting journey. Enjoy the process and learn as much as you can. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or frustrated, but remember to stay positive and keep moving forward.
What to Expect in Your First Architecture Job
It is normal to feel anxious when starting your first architecture job. After all, it can be a challenging and demanding field. But with hard work and dedication, you will be able to thrive in this environment. Here are some of the things you can expect in your first architecture job:
● A lot of responsibility
As a new professional, you will be given a lot of responsibility from the first day. This can be intimidating, but it is also an opportunity to learn and grow. Be prepared to work hard and take on new challenges.
● A lot of stress
The profession of architecture can be very stressful. There will be times when you are under pressure to meet a deadline or solve a problem. It is important to stay calm and focused during these times.
● A lot of overtime
Overtime is common in the architecture profession. You may be asked to work late on a project or come in on the weekend. Be prepared to put in the extra time and effort when needed.
● A lot of travel
If you are lucky, you may get to travel for work. This can be an excellent opportunity to see new places and learn about different cultures. However, it can also be challenging to be away from home for a long time.
The Bottom Line
We get it; transitioning from university to your first architecture job can be daunting. But you shouldn’t let that scare you away. With hard work and dedication, you will be able to thrive in this environment. Take a deep breath, put your best foot forward, and enjoy the journey!
