This is the time of year that graduates enter the workplace,
or summer internships are available for students. I've decided to share these
tips with young architects. Although it was written a few decades ago, it is
still relevant to those just starting in the architectural profession. This
list is for those just beginning their architectural career. This list is aimed
at those with zero to three years of experience. This list would be great for
anyone with less than seven years of experience. These principles are helpful
for anyone starting a career or even a student interning for a term. Let's not
get into a debate over the name of this group. I know that it exists, but
there's no answer. These are my top tips for getting the most from your
experience in architecture. Although they're more suitable for a smaller firm
(less than 100 employees), these tips apply to all firms.
Speaking & Listening
1. Use headphones only in the workplace. Listening to the
conversations around you will help you learn more. Even if the conversations
are not with you, they benefit your knowledge. Be aware of small conversations
around your desk. It may be okay to close your ears to focus on a particular
task. However, keeping them open is best for everyone. I know virtual meetings
have you wearing headphones more often than ever. Take them off (or take them
out) and hear the sounds in the office.
2. Listen more than speak. This is another one that will
allow you to learn. You should practice it daily for the first two to three
years of your career. You may have much to say, but understanding the basics is
essential. Refer to the next topic if you feel the urge to speak.
3. When you're unsure, speak up. Not at the time, but later.
You may need the right time to ask questions, such as in the middle of a
client's meeting or at another inappropriate time. But remember it and ask
later. Let the person finish their explanation before you ask questions. Don't
interrupt but ask questions to understand. You are here to learn about the
process and practice of architecture.
4. Answer your questions. It is sometimes better to find the
answers yourself. This shows initiative. Remember, you need to find the right
balance between asking and discovering. You can find the answers you need by
using any method. The internet doesn't have all the answers, which is
surprising to many young professionals today. Speak to someone, even someone who
is not in your company. Mentors can be excellent and, even better, great
mentors! Other young professionals can be a valuable source of information. All
of your peers have been through the same experience. They can be of assistance.
Expectations are important
5. Never make a promise you cannot keep. It's simple. This
is a simple rule. There are people above you who will take you at your word.
This is only the beginning of a cascade of consequences. Do not be the first
flake.
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6. Expect to wait twice as long. Period. Give yourself more
time to complete a task than you think it will. Double the time you think it
will take. It's just a fact. Although it may get easier with time and
experience, the first few times are always much more difficult. Task completion
takes longer than you expect, whether because of new knowledge, new skills, or
other things getting in the way. It feels good to finish early. You are usually
expected to deliver on your promises, so make it easy for yourself and those
around you.
7. Never make excuses. Ever! Take responsibility for what
you did if you didn't complete your task, made a mistake, or needed help figuring
out what to do. Do not say, "John didn't get it done, so I couldn't."
As an adult, you should take full responsibility for your actions and any
harmful consequences that may result. You will become a better individual. You
will grow and improve your skills or knowledge. This is another part of a
career that isn't "fun" or even very popular. But to me, it's
essential.
8. Take note of how your superiors behave with others. You
can learn a lot from your "higher-ups" at work. They will show you
how to behave with other people in your office and clients, consultants and
others outside the office. They will probably want you to behave the same way.
If they're okay, let them set the mood. It is helpful initially; you will soon
be able to develop your style. It can take a while to get this right, so be
patient.
Learn on the Job
9. Don't overestimate yourself. I know that you have just
received a degree from a prestigious university. . . You had a GPR of 3.8, but
most likely, you don't know much about the practice. It's not your fault.
Refrain from assuming that you understand or know what is going on. You will be
bitten in the arse. Be humble when you are adjusting to your new work
environment.
10. Why? This should be your favourite word. Not in a snarky
rhetorical manner, but instead in the "I want to learn" style. It's a
great way to improve your knowledge and, therefore, your usefulness. This
curiosity allows your boss/supervisor/colleague to feel useful. Those above you
may like to explain architectural terms. This article is about asking questions
politely. They will be more than willing to indulge this curiosity if your
office is attractive.
11. Materials used in the industry are essential to know.
These are your primary tools. Before developing new ways of assembling
materials, you must understand how they work together. Your 3D-rendered model
may look amazing, but how does it hold together? What is the behaviour of
materials? How are the details flashed on? It is this that will take your
understanding and abilities to a new level. You can manipulate a system in new
ways once you understand its components.
12. Take notes. You're on a new learning curve. Take notes.
. . It will help you in the future. You will benefit from it in the future. It
may help you remember it faster if you write it down. This is how most people
learn. Only some people will know this way, but taking copious notes won't hurt
you. You can then look back on the information without asking the same
questions again.
Persistence is a valuable asset
13. It isn't all glamour in the profession. Accept this.
Even your boss will have to do something they don't like. It could be more fun
to work. You can't be bothered to think that all you have done today or this
week is redlines, filing or other trivial work. Everybody in the office has to
deal with this in some way. The indifference is different for everyone. In
today's world, I understand this is not tolerated as much, but it is how most
offices operate. All offices, not just the architecture. The mundane aspects of
most careers are part and parcel of the job. Despite what you may read on the internet
or social media, all jobs are boring somehow.
14. Do not give up. The first few years of your career will
likely be challenging. You may need to work in a better place, no matter where
you are. Do not give up your chosen career. It may be necessary to change
firms, studios, or groups. Please do not give up on becoming an architect
because your first job wasn't good. You can't stop it. Find another job. This
is not to suggest that if you have a terrible first month, it is time to leave;
this is also not a good idea. Give each one a chance before you go for a
position (unless it is a complete nightmare). A chance lasts between six months
and a year.
15. Work towards licensure. This is a susceptible subject.
It is true that it costs money and requires time and effort. But it's what you
went to college to be. Here is the process. The process is constantly changing,
but the task remains manageable. Make sure to move in this direction as quickly
as possible. It would be best to achieve this status since you will work in
that profession. It may not matter to you, but you will benefit from obtaining
the certificate. Set this as your realistic, attainable goal: to become a
licensed architect with a capital "A". It's not impossible. It took
me a long time to complete this process, but that was only because I did not
make it a priority. This was off my radar during the first four years I worked.
When I became aware of this because of professional reasons, I finished it in a
short period. If you start with a goal in mind, you will achieve it.
, these tips apply to all firms.)
