We spoke to HR Manager Tara Keast for her best advice to graduates and those looking to enter the architecture industry. We discuss tips on applying for internships, acing interviews at architecture firms and the kind of environment that those new to the workforce should strive to join.
What should an Architect student do whilst studying?
Any university student, in any discipline, should aim to get interactive office experience while studying, to prepare themselves for the workplace environment and culture and expected office hours that comes with it.
Specifically with architecture, attaining real hands-on experience, that you can only get from actually being in an architectural firm, will provide you with an understanding of work life outside of university. That is why internships are invaluable for what you can learn and logically put what you’ve been studying into practice.
Would you advise graduates to apply to firms that may not necessarily be advertising at the time?
Whilst it is important to look out for advertisements, it can never hurt to put your resume in for consideration, especially if there aren’t any jobs being advertised.
Here at the DesignInc Sydney studio, we receive applications most days from students seeking internships. Most firms, including DesignInc, retain these resumes on file for future reference when it comes time to recruit.
Two of our most recent graduate recruits actually walked into our office personally and hand delivered a paper copy of their resume. To DesignInc this demonstrated initiative and provided an opportunity to meet with the graduate prior to even looking at their resume.
How can graduates ensure that their CV stands out?
The key to preparing a good CV is to make sure that it is clear, concise and not over-crowded. Recruiters really just want to know your education background, where you have worked, any extracurricular activities and information relevant to the position. If you don’t have industry experience at all, perhaps you can draw on other experiences with alternative offerings, differentiating yourself from fellow candidates.
The most important aspect of a great resume is that it is proofread and as accurate as it can be. Most recruiters look for attributes including attention to detail, evident through spelling and grammatical accuracy.
Lastly, customise and personalise your cover letter. Use a more personal tone when writing to the firm or recruiter, rather than using generic terms like ‘Dear Recruiter’.
Do you think that having a LinkedIn profile helps?
Having a LinkedIn profile is beneficial when looking for work as it gives recruiters an extra insight into the applicant. They may have their hobbies listed or even a side business in another area.
Not having a LinkedIn profile may inhibit you slightly when compared to another applicant. At DesignInc we really like to know as much about a person as possible to understand if they are a good fit for the role and culture. Having a profile also indicates you are confident to promote yourself at a professional level within the industry.
What tips do you have for the interview process?
During the interview it is important to speak clearly, articulating your reasoning to provide the interviewer with an understanding of what you can 
offer. It is useful to bring professionally presented portfolio on the day, ensuring that it is organised and a true reflection of your skillsets and capability.
I also recommend engaging with the interviewer about their knowledge of the firm, after researching and preparing a set of relevant questions. After all this is an opportunity for you to learn as much as you can about the firm and the proposed role.
These are some great questions you can ask.
What development opportunities do you offer graduates?
- Does this firm have a mentoring program?
- Are there opportunities to work across different stages of projects and in different sectors of architecture?
- How often is feedback given during the design process?
- What is the office culture like?
If you are feeling comfortable and the response feels positive, it may be appropriate to ask for the opportunity to tour the office. Walking around will give you insight into how teams collaborate together and the general atmosphere of the work space.
What are some indicators of a great architecture studio that graduates should look out for?
I can’t speak for other firms, but at the Sydney Studio of DesignInc, we place a strong focus on development, particularly for our non-registered team members. We like to give graduates exposure to different stages of design to expand the breadth of their knowledge and experience.
We also undertake internal training and send team members to external organisations for training as necessary.
One of the initiatives that we are currently implementing is a mentorship program and buddy system. A firm that offers a support system like this allows new staff members to work alongside more senior colleagues, which helps assist with cohesive workplace methods, and helps them to settle and integrate into the environment.
A firm’s commitment to professional development is also another thing to be aware of. Here at DesignInc, we host study groups for architects or designers who aren’t registered. They meet regularly to study and to help them to prepare for their exams which can be quite demanding. Our Managing Director, Sandeep helps lead some of these sessions and is fully committed to support younger architects in these study groups.
You should also try and pursue a firm that has a good office culture and work-life balance. DesignInc are big on socialising, fostering communication and collaboration amongst our team. Ask your interviewers if they host events outside of work and find out what activities team members can look forward to.
At DesignInc, we regularly get together for lawn bowls, social parties, scavenger hunts, trivia, yoga and Friday drinks in addition to celebrating major events like our recent Melbourne Cup Lunch.
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