10 Tips for interviewing with a small Architecture Firm

29 Mar 10 Tips for interviewing with a small Architecture Firm

Congratulations! you got the interview, now get the job.

1. Come Alone.

You may think that this is an obvious tip, but nevertheless past experiences demand that this be put in black and white.  Lets just say it was an interview that I will never forget.

2. Bring Work Samples.

Yes you submitted a digital portfolio for review, but ALWAYS come prepared with a physical portfolio.  This not only showcases your skills, i.e. that you really do know how to use REVIT (don’t lie), but it also highlights your graphic presentation aesthetic.  How big is the portfolio?  How is it oriented?  What is the quality?  These details are important!  In a small Architecture Firm, one minute you might be generating mundane CAD details and the next you may need to help generate presentation images and drawings for a Client meeting.  We need to be able to trust you to do this.

Why not come with a digital portfolio on a laptop or iPad you ask?  Well if for some reason it doesn’t turn on  you are left with nothing to showcase.  And if you have nothing to showcase you show that you are unprepared.

Not sure where to go to get a professionally made portfolio?  Check out Blurb, Shutterfly, or Smartpress.

3. Show us your Personality.

It’s always important to be yourself in an interview, but in a small firm environment it is crucial.  Small firms are like families.  All of the personalities (and trust me there are a lot of personalities, even in a small firm) need to work together.   Harmony is important.  So make sure that you are being open and honest about who you are.  What are your hobbies?  What are your goals?  What is important to you?  Are you a dog person or a cat person?

Remember, it has to be a good fit for both you and the firm.

4. Dress to Impress.

This can mean different things in different places.  Business attire?  Business Casual?  Casual?  Well, probably NOT casual, but you need to understand where you are and what the expectations are.  There is a difference between NYC and Los Angeles.

Not sure what to wear?  Check out the Balance for more tips.

5. arrive on time/ actually show up

Remember this is your first impression.  Show your potential future employer that you have good time management skills by arriving on time.  And it never hurts to be a little early!  Let Waze help you out and find you the quickest route possible.

If you are a no show you are a no go.  If it turns out your not interested in the position, make sure you call ahead and cancel the interview.

6. Research the Firm.

Do your homework and check out the firm’s website and their social media platforms.

What do they post about?  What types of projects do they do?  Where are they focused?  What are their affiliations?  Do they do work that excites you?

7. Prepare a list of Questions.

After you do all of your research, sit down and prepare a list of questions for the firm.  Writing it down will help you define what is important to you.

Do you need a job that offers health insurance?  Do you want a position that will offer the potential for growth?  Do you want to make sure that you are able to log all of your apprenticeship hours?

Not sure what to ask?  Read this.

8. Know the Market.

The salary question will always come up, so be prepared and know what you are worth in the current market.  Check out Payscale or Glass Door to see salary information for your area.

9. Follow up.

Did you love the office culture?  Do you really want the job?  After the interview, make sure to follow up with them, letting them know that you appreciated the opportunity and are really interested in the position.

You can call them, send an email, or my personal favorite, send an actual THANK YOU card.  Even better, a customized one… #personalbranding

Don’t know what to say?  Check out How to Follow Up After Job Interviews.

10. Keep your Head up and Stay Positive.

Take a moment.  Step back.  Ask for feedback.  Reevaluate.  Be Proactive.  Move forward.

One of the great beauties of Architecture is that each time it is like life starting all over again. – Renzo Piano

-hlj