How to get your first job in an architecture practice

Know what you want

Think about:

• Type of work, such as housing, education, healthcare, conservation or commercial.
• Size of practice, small, medium or large. Small practices often give wide responsibility early, and larger ones give structure and training.
• Place and language, where you want or are able to work.
• Values, such as sustainability, community or design quality.

You do not need to be certain, but a direction helps you to target applications.

Prepare your materials

• Portfolio. A tailored, concise, well-designed selection of your best work, showing process. See How to build an architecture portfolio.
• CV. One or two pages, clearly laid out: education, experience, skills, software and references. Be accurate.
• Cover letter or email. Short and specific. See below.
• Online presence. Keep it professional. Check what appears when someone searches your name.

You do not need to be certain, but a direction helps you to target applications.

Research practices

Look at their work, approach, size and people. Read their website, projects and writing. Know why you want to work with them. Mention a project you admire, and why. It shows you have done your homework.

Write a good application

• Address the right person if you can find the name.
• Say who you are, what you are applying for and why them, in a few lines.
• Show what you can offer: skills, qualities, relevant experience.
• Attach the portfolio as a PDF of a reasonable size, or a link.
• Follow instructions about format and content.
• Check for mistakes. Errors suggest a lack of care.
• Be honest about your experience and software skills.

Use your network

Many jobs come through contact. Talk to tutors, former classmates and people you met on placements. Go to talks, events and open days. Ask for advice, not just a job. Keep in touch with people you meet.

Placements and internships

Short placements and internships help you to learn, to build contacts and to see whether a practice suits you. Ask about the terms, and about pay, which should comply with the law where you are working. Unpaid arrangements may be unlawful in some places, so check.

The interview

• Prepare. Know the practice, its work and the role.
• Be ready to talk about your portfolio, simply, with clear reasons for your decisions.
• Prepare questions for them, about the work, the team, training and progress.
• Be yourself, curious and calm.
• Be on time, and dress appropriately.
• Follow up with a thank-you message.

Be patient

It can take many applications. Rejection is normal and rarely personal. Ask for feedback if possible, improve, and keep going. Keep drawing and designing while you search.

Know your rights

Understand your contract, pay, hours, holiday and notice. Ask questions before accepting. Make sure the terms are written down, and take advice if something seems wrong.

Professional registration

In many countries, becoming a registered architect involves further steps after graduation. See Starting a career in architecture. Ask employers whether they support your progress.

In short

Know what you want, prepare a strong portfolio and CV, research practices, apply thoughtfully, use your network, prepare for interviews and be patient.

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