Architecture Job Interviews - The Unspoken Mindset - Important Stuff Others Don't Tell You

[@mitchellwright4295]

I got a great tip from a friend who works in big HR firms in regards to the “do you have any questions?” standard wrap up. Paraphrase - “After getting to know me a bit, what concerns to you have about me filling this role?” It gives the employer an opportunity to tell you these concerns and you an opportunity to reassure them. 😊

[@Archimarathon]

That’s a great one. Thanks.

[@vujadin82]

I think it is a bad question: you are automatically implying that you bring in "a' problem/issue.

[@xotni]

I was a student in one of Kevin's class long time ago. The 3 months studio was concluded with just 3 minutes presentation of 4 A0 sheets. I think beyond design, that class also taught me (forced me to learn, rather!) how to be concise and precise in what I communicate. And that has served me well to this day. Thank you!

[@Archimarathon]

Thank you for remembering and understanding such harsh rule that I had. I know it almost seems unreasonable during the time for many.

[@daniellloyd1801]

@@Archimarathon have you made a video about this?

[@Archimarathon]

@@daniellloyd1801 Yes kind of. We did ones on presentation.

[@larissaellen3954]

The “power pose” tip was fantastic!

[@Archimarathon]

There are plenty of other videos on that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaSQkICeZrabg8U

[@bluedevil7043]

This is such a great video to watch before any designer interview to calm your nerves and be yourself during an interview. Thanks, guys I got an offer!

[@Archimarathon]

Great to hear!! Good luck

[@morneschroeder6255]

Ok, so I basically need to cartwheel into the interview room, breath deeply, smile and talk clearly...

[@Archimarathon]

😂

[@raadyusuf6763]

...while you're still hungover

[@prawiraagung4011]

do a front flip and shout "i'm ready baby!"

[@Nynke_K]

I think I would definitely want to ask about working conditions (in a sense) at the end of the interview, if they hadn't come up: the interview is not just about the employee sussing out the employee, but also about the employee finding if the firm will suit them. The first thing I'd want to know is what the work flow is like, and how I'd fit into that. What kinds of tasks will be the meat of the job? How much time do you spend on each, and is there one type of thing to focus on in a given week, or lots of things to juggle? The project-type question mentioned at the end relates to this, but doesn't really cover it.

[@MelvinLim]

Funny to see Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne discussing about interview tips.

[@Archimarathon]

What? We are superheroes in disguise?

[@MelvinLim]

@@Archimarathon your secret is safe with me. Can I have a job now, please?

[@matroyford6711]

Thanks for the vid ✌🏽 The best interview advice I've heard is "People won't remember everything you say, but they'll remember how you made them feel." Have some fun with it, just give it.

[@Archimarathon]

Yes. It’s all about human interaction and emotions

[@povy3000]

thank God I found you video before my interview, thank you for such a valuable information.

[@Archimarathon]

Good luck with your interview

[@shristishresthacisti]

Seeing Kevin still makes me nervous and I graduated 3 years ago haha!

[@Archimarathon]

I ask all the tough questions.

[@nissinediete8819]

I’ll be sure to bring a model and sketchbook. Thank you. Maybe I can be included more than the drafty.

[@NA-ij5jy]

From the moment I graduated from “architecture” school, all my interviews were only about my knowledge and speed in autoCad. I hate it and that created a rejection in me. I was expected to work as a technical draftman having full knowledge of every computer drafting program out there and keep current. Programs and courses are expensive. How do we suppose to afford that? Also, it’s as asking a doctor to work as a nurse.

[@geralt6530]

They want us to be a drafter not an architect 🤣🤣🤣

[@TheGuitarNewby]

I love this medium, especially for the architecture niche here on KZbin. Would you guys be interested in going into long-form content (such as podcasts) in the future? I would watch the hell out of that

[@Archimarathon]

There are some longer form, or the extra bits that didn’t make the KZbin cut that I put on Patreon. I don’t think we have the podcast medium in mind at this stage as it is a whole different form of medium.

[@JeyleneMejia]

Great pointer. I watched this and landed two jobs off the bat. Thank you for the vote of confidence and advice on mindset.

[@Archimarathon]

Glad to hear.

[@shokoladniybegemot]

Really great advice! Thank you! Especially the props, makes so much sense now that you mention it. Everything is so digital these days, people don't even bother to print portfolios any more (in Russia at least), but it makes the interview that much more interesting and engaging.

[@Archimarathon]

It’s all theatre and human emotions

[@pompei1009]

I used to be in an interview that actually focused more on your personality than your skill. They even have a personality questionnaires to see if you are actually a 'fun' people to work with.

[@Archimarathon]

Lucky you

[@hipsonsogbo]

Personality is subjective. I've been in an interview where they told me they liked me based on the fact I was pretty normal, saying you've got a partner you are into surfing, things like that. And the emoyer showed me his scooter which I had no interest in. When I got the job offer I turned it down. Didn't like that sort of interviewing type, very judgemental.

[@markmccullough5421]

very enjoyable to watch! going to interview tomorrow...

[@Archimarathon]

Good luck

[@Stormer1633]

This is the best advice I've seen for architects. Also most of the HR specialists doing KZbin clips on interviewing are from the US. Really glad you said be honest

[@Archimarathon]

Yes some of those videos tell you even how to answer certain questions “correctly”. Hell no.

[@tarunifalconer]

A golden rule about public speaking is to "rehearse in place". That's not possible in a job interview so a recommended addition for the interviewee is to get on the phone to the appropriate person in the organisation BEFORE your interview. Try to find out the physical layout of the room in which you will be interviewed. Is it around the table? If so, will there be room to lay out "props"? Will the interviewer/s and interviewee be on chairs where all of you can be seen?

[@earnearn9941]

Thanks so much! I could take some of your advices for my Job interview tomorrow!

[@Archimarathon]

Good luck

[@daro6009]

Grate one, thanks guys! I wish i could have an interviewers like you guys in the future :) Love it!

[@liamdicken358]

Very useful in regards to helping and preparing me for the future. Thank you Kevin and Andrew.

[@Archimarathon]

You are welcome

[@ivanventerarchitect]

Thanks - this was a great help & reminder of some things I knew & some I didn't . Re-located cities, so after being self employed for many years, decided to try out for a few positions. One being a lecturing post at the local Uni. Upon reflection, I duffed the interview - spent too much time informing the panel how I'd update the curriculum to meet today's work requirements........

[@Archimarathon]

You are who you are and present what you believe. If it didn’t work out it’s probably for the best

[@ivanventerarchitect]

@@Archimarathon Thanks Kevin - Your feedback is really accurate and hugely encouraging. Just reminded myself on one thing I did learn when conducting interviews when I was on the other side of the table.....one very important if not the most important factor when interviewing potential candidates is finding the person with the best attitude. I learnt this from a colleague - this can often supercede experience and training. PS - just loved your recent promo - just harnessing Andrew's natural abilities........

[@sazennonumber]

Thank you for sharing your tips and tricks for job interviews. I do have to say that I disagree with the idea of not talking about the money or benefits. Why would it be considered selfish if the candidate wants to know the benefits? An employer needs good employees just as much as a job seeker needs employment. People who are looking for work have to make a decision and have other interviews to go to as well. I really liked Kevin's insights into body language stuff - that was very helpful and interesting.

[@Archimarathon]

You are welcome

[@KH-wg6kr]

Not what I was looking for 'for now' but really interesting discussion. Good work guys both of you are hired!

[@oradanburadan162]

I love this video. Very good tactics. Thanks Kevin and Andrew!

[@KaranSharma-ew7io]

i bet its not scripted , their sense of humour is lit

[@Archimarathon]

Thanks. Yeah we are too lazy to script anything. It's also way more fun this way.

[@abdulaysher4515]

I agree. Sharing my first interview encounter, I really didnt know i was going in for an interview then boom i was already in even with out my knowledge . And i guess this helped mi overcovem my weakness (Nervous State) cause i was really calm and straight to the answer about each and every question that was directed to mi. Though it was a litte messy. Thanks for your ideas guys . It was beneficial Ineeded . Being Calm is a Key While in an interview.

[@Archimarathon]

Good to hear

[@shokoladniybegemot]

Also would really appreciate if you did an episode on what Andrew talks about in the article on work/life balance. Its so important.

[@Archimarathon]

Yes we have talked about revisiting that essay. I was going to reference that in this video but it fell through

[@Archimarathon]

It’s going to happen

[@jennyd5677]

Hello !! I want to say thanks for making this video cause I just secured a job!! I took your advice especially with the power poses and to bring PROPS! You are right theres always another person in the room that would be looking at these. It seriously worked ! I had a great time in the interview and it helped sparked interest in my work. Thank you again ! I saw your posts because I'm in the deakin architecture student group. :)

[@Archimarathon]

Great to hear. Good luck with your new job

[@christophermoody1448]

This was a great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@Archimarathon]

Thanks. Hope you’ll find it useful

[@clairr7515]

Great advice, I will definitely take these on board. I do think a couple of introspective question can be handy to get a vibe of how the company if run and its processes. An interview is as much for the interviewee to sus out a potential workplace as it is for the employer.

[@Archimarathon]

Yes but there are skilful ways of asking without sounding like it is all you. Andrew’s example is a good one as it is kinda really asking about your role but it makes it sound like you are also thinking about them.

[@clairr7515]

@@Archimarathon yes defiantly agree

[@coolguy3316]

Basically - apply for multiple positions in many companies. Your performance is 39% factor in you getting hired. Rest is their urgency , project, budget and mood of the project manager. Just stay positive and shooting the targets intelligently

[@Kheine89]

Iam glad i found this channel. Wish me luck tomorrow

[@Archimarathon]

Glad you found it. Please spread the word. Good luck. Um... what’s happening tomorrow?

[@Kheine89]

@@Archimarathon Job interview at White architects ;) guess ill be singing loud in the shower and do 1000 pushups 10 min before the interview. btw love the casual vibe you guys have. Is that hos Australians all are ? :p. Will do :)

[@enoch_likeit]

Get power! Power poses I am going to do so!

[@Archimarathon]

💪

[@lockster101231]

Thanks guys! This was great. I'd love a vid solely on just how to approach firms when job hunting.

[@Archimarathon]

that will come. thanks for watching.

[@georgehsieh35]

Thank you for taking your time to make this video. So many great tips, it helped me through my toughest interview today - The APE interview. I understand this video is about job interview but the body language part and the date analogy really helped me a lot. Keep up the good work. Cheers

[@Archimarathon]

Well done for making through your tough interview

[@giorgosvarvi697]

So you guys basically just told introverts can never get a job at your studio. Really inspiring, nice.

[@nickvsarch]

Have an interview later, thanks for helping me out! You guys are hilarious by the way, great vid!

[@Archimarathon]

Cheers. Good luck. Check out the other videos.

[@nickvsarch]

@@Archimarathon sure will, big fan

[@kaivenchong1520]

Thanks for the great video kevin! I will be having a design interview through zoom in a couple of weeks and this video is really helpful.

[@Archimarathon]

Good luck

[@dorineogutu5491]

Do a discussion about pricing in Architecture

[@Archimarathon]

We plan on doing one on negotiation

[@mapout.studio]

Nice one! (And a great background) I only disagree with the money and conditions. When you are applying for a job you are also choosing. So you need all the conditions involved. I understand Andrews point of view because his studio already says what can you expect from them, but that's not usual. The picture of the CV is critical for me (says a lot). In the other hand I'm finding interesting lately having CVs with no face photo or gender.

[@Archimarathon]

I guess the point is, after the interview you will still be given an offer, possibly dealing with other people, office manager or hr. Regardless, you can still accept or deny the offer, or further negotiate. Negotiation is another whole topic which is huge for architects, not just employment wages, but also negotiating client fees etc. And yes, that will most likely be another video

[@fmpnico]

The problem with photos on the cv is that some firms will discard you inmediatly to avoid any issues of discrimination.

[@elliotpike8101]

Some really good insight into how I should prepare for an interview definitely learnt a few things. looking forward to the folio episode! :)

[@Archimarathon]

Thanks for the comment

[@andreeadruga5002]

Very useful video. Looking forward for the episode on the CV and portfolio. Thank you for all the very inspiring videos!

[@em9136]

LC glasses style, i like it

[@tommygrewell2684]

I would argue that the most interesting question to answer for both parties are, Why. In the end, Why do we both want to work togheter for the overseable future? The fact that you are at the interview should mean that both you and the company is alined on the What = This is what we seak and he/she has that based on the fact presented in the application (DONT LIE). I see the When as formalities on when can finaly begin this beautiful relationship! Where are your office again and How do make this happen?? 💰 and here agree with Andrew, this you DONT bring up during the interview, the only who initiates that talk is the "Company" (CIA..? 🤔). So as always, be prepared if it does. But if we circle back to the begining, Why focus on the What, When, Where and How in an interview when the most important question for both is Why! That is usally my question to the Firm (Not the Tom Cruise movie..) on the any last questions? I can read What you have done, but Why are you doing it? If the reason Why you are doing your work is the same reason I seek work here, well chanses are good we are going to have a great experience! #Sorry for the bad English! I'm Swedish and Sweden have just beaten Poland 3-2 in the EURO’s So my concentration is all over the place! 😄 Last famous words to everyone out there: Be yourself! and Kev and Andrew thanks for a GREAT channel!!

[@Archimarathon]

Yes thanks. This coincide with one of my most important videos/lectures, What Why How.

[@sashan1281]

Thank you so much, i have an interview tomorrow some great tips!

[@Archimarathon]

Good luck

[@sashan1281]

@@Archimarathon thank you!

[@hipsonsogbo]

I was asked to come for an interview following a phone interview, the place was 7 hour drive away, however since a second interview is a good sign, I decided to buy a plane ticket and fly up. The interview was on a Friday after lunch. I had the interview with two employers. Later that afternoon I got a call to say how was the interview etc, and that sorry he wasn't in the interview he would also like to meet me, could I come back in on Monday. I thought 3rd interview well I guess I have to for the job. I agreed stayed up there over the weekend did some sight seeing. Monday comes around I go in for the interview. Three of them there this time. Alot has been already covered so its really just a meet up. When the interview ends I walk out slowly however I don't shake their hands as I feel like I know them after the third interview and it's become informal. I fly back to where I'm staying. Later that week I get a response, we thought it was strange you didn't shake our hands, we won't be offering you a job. Now I always shake hands which i always find unnesecery, however I do it anyway, for the power tripping corporates of this world.

[@Archimarathon]

Oh no. What a terrible story. Sorry to hear

[@lyrarchi1933]

I have an alternate take on the hand shaking, I politely refuse to shake hands with anyone after my hand was crushed, yep crushed with considerable force by two out of three men at a meeting. I have arthritis so if they cant get to know me without the need to physically touch me I dont want to work for them.

[@hipsonsogbo]

@@lyrarchi1933 playing the game seems to be one of the most important skills in architecture offices, which is related to the whole handshaking expectations, its symbolic of fake behaviors, that's something that really surprised me when i became an architecture graduate, i worked in various offices in New Zealand and the behavior of people is extremely passive aggressive, i thought educated people such as architects wouldn't behave that way, but i was wrong, it is supported by the culture, and the directors play off it.

[@ubertothegroove]

These are great tips! The hardest part is getting an interview... any tips on landing that?

[@Archimarathon]

we will do another episode on cv/portfolio and approaching firms in another episode(s)

[@Ozblu3y]

@@Archimarathon plss!

[@morneschroeder6255]

Spent time reading up on the company and their work. Know their website inside and out and memories all the relevants people’s names. People love it when you know a lot about them and their work.

[@andrewliang5401]

Having a good portfolio is the key to land interview😉

[@HT-lb7ph]

Great to see you Kevin.. Great tips, very informative video..

[@Archimarathon]

Nice to hear from your Haroon.

[@fsa8975]

Loved ur video!! Very helpful as a student who’s just started applying for internships!! I’m still waiting for a video about portfolios though.. hahaha

[@Archimarathon]

On our TikTok

[@anthonynastasi8708]

Another great video gentleman! It was interesting to see the position of connecting with the interviewer almost on a more casual (but still professional) level and opening yourself up to be vulnerable. Most times i find that i forget that the interviewer is a person as well and looking for an employee that brings the same values and direction to the business. As a current Architecture student graduating at the end of the year, do you think that we would be treated somewhat differently to already experienced architects when it comes to the interview process? IE. Are we expected to be more the "yes sir i'll do whatever you want" people? Do you think that the director expects us to be more contributing to questions on past projects or upcoming designs? Keep up the great work by the way! Awesome videos

[@Archimarathon]

Good questions. I think it is up to the individual and what they are after. If they are only looking for a drone cad monkey then you will sense that during the interview. Remember it’s like a date. If values don’t align, move on.

[@xolivn4meox]

Hey guys, thanks for the talk. I have an interview today and needed to hear some of this. I interviewed with several companies of the last two months and Ive almost looked at those as “warm-ups”. After being quarantined for about a year, my conversation skills have sadly regressed. I love the bit about being props and adding work to the background of a video call. What’s your point of view when it comes to sending additional information prior to a video call to use as talking points? At this point, they already have my portfolio and CV.

[@Archimarathon]

I don’t know, I doubt they have the time to mess around with additional stuff you send.

[@urbancolab]

Thanks for expressing the importance of posture and attitude. It speaks more to cultural fit than a beautiful portfolio. Can I just leave one batch of wookie cookies on my way out please 🤣

[@omarelhalfawy7902]

Hello guys, well first of all I have no idea why this channel hasn't got millions of subscribers already but I hope one day people will discover what they've been missing. Secondly I know this might sound funny but I'd been thinking about it for a while, is posting memes regularly on facebook makes you kind of a joker to them? like we can't rely on you dude your're posting memes! and the third question is also do you think throwing a light joke or laugh about a situation as an ice breaker a good idea? I think some might be cool with it while others will not. Generally speaking, I don't call myself a comedian but I'm always having that feeling of why don't we laugh and have sense of humor and act normal all the time instead of wearing masks and being uncomfortable. One of the reasons I love you guys and I've been saving your videos for a month now since I discovered you is your sense of humor, you're architects doing great at your jobs while still showing your real fun and cool personalities, oh my god they should make a prize for that or something :"D That's all sorry for the essay :"D also i think this is my first or second comment on youtube ever so you really should know that you're great and one day your youtube family will grow, best wishes

[@Archimarathon]

Thank you so much for your compliments and thoughts. We just try to be genuine about who we are and share our knowledge and passion for architecture. I must admit it’s not for everyone but that’s anything on KZbin really. We really really appreciate those who are supporting us on our journey. And he’s millions of subscribers would be excellent.

[@omarelhalfawy7902]

@@Archimarathon I think you being yourself increases the trust and connection between you and the viewer, I really hope your wishes come true...love from Egypt

[@Archimarathon]

Please share with your friends.

[@omarelhalfawy7902]

@@Archimarathon Sure, I will

[@tlrflava]

Love it brilliant

[@sofianos17]

Should or should I not wear a tuxedo to my next job interview?

[@Archimarathon]

😂

[@nicholassimmonds8769]

Isn’t a black turtleneck a mandatory requirement under the architects act?

[@NA-ij5jy]

Do you know cad, rhino, sketch up (or whatever) ? Which version did you used last? How fast are you in cad or others ? Do you mind taking a test in cad? Do you know construction details? THOSE WERE THE ONLY QUESTIONS IN MY YEARS INTERVIEWS.

[@Archimarathon]

Is that the kind of job you want to go for?

[@NA-ij5jy]

@@Archimarathon NOOOOO.... that’s my point! That’s all I was asked in all my interviews since I graduated. So now I ended up working in retail. I hate it too. Thanks school of architecture! Thank you Architects! What a bunch of B S ! Now we know why there are “frustrated Architects”. And why it’s so well known. In some countries more than in others because of the rules and regulations to practice and power given to employers. Nobody wants to be an employee and do the shit for others. Everyone wants their own design built and carry their names.

[@geralt6530]

🤣🤣🤣 true

[@kingcashus2842]

Very informative, I'm in college still but when is a good time to start shadowing to learn more knowledge about the business of architect. Thanks again sincerely KingCashus in the music industry, Floyd in the working world

[@fernandagrinblat6637]

Ive had many experinces of enterviews where i showed confindence though this didnt hit as I wanted to. It is true that most of the times they are not interested when we are insecure, but it depends on the position we are applying and the salary they are willing to pay. Im interested in knowing more answers you like to receive to : ¿do you have any question?. ¿As architects we are not usually using formal clothes which is the more apropiate for the acasion for a woman? I think the best question would what is the quality that stands out for a good enterview. ¿Is there any think that you always are waiting for? May be a key word. Igues if you do a list of dont an yes list it would be helpfull.

[@davidleung5984]

Damn ! Good trips! Thank you!

[@slenderslander]

As someone about to go for an interview with a firm on the tendering side of things, it looks like most of these tips will translate well. I really liked the idea of props, as I'm always that bored person looking to fidget too, so any ideas for props?

[@Archimarathon]

As mentioned. Sketchbook. Models. Magazines with previous projects.

[@D1945-k5h]

Hi what do you do if an employer asks you about a job that only lasted a year or a couple of months what do you tell them?

[@Archimarathon]

Tell them the truth

[@moondicky3051]

Thank you so much for sharing these, i feel a little more prepared for my interview in 2 weeks, especially about the video conference interview. Its my first to be interviewed in such a way, its making me so nervous! How am i supposed to share my works to the interviewers?! 😵

[@Archimarathon]

Please tell us how you went after your interview. Keen to know. Good luck

[@moondicky3051]

@@Archimarathon will do!

[@dulguunbold2067]

Thanks Guys

[@Archimarathon]

Welcome

[@Behjafry]

Lol, I have an interview tomorrow and if this works, I will be sending you a box of doughnuts ;)

[@Archimarathon]

Haha. No bribes but thanks

[@Behjafry]

@@Archimarathon - I got the offer letter 😃... and since I have a strict gratitude policy (who doesn’t want sans-agenda doughnuts?). Thank you very much for uploading content that architecture schools should be covering. It was succinct, cut through the meat of the issue and objectively outlines behaviors that indicate confidence. - From across the Tasman

[@Archimarathon]

@@Behjafry Hey congrats! Please just spread the word about our channel

[@MomochiZabuzaSama]

This was a great video, would be keen for the video on folios & CVs. What are your thoughts on questions such as work life balance, overtime, new project allocation and time/financial quatos within a project? These questions are critical for understanding how a company works, but are they to "selfish?" Also, suit and tie for an architectural job interview. To formal? Or would you expect it.

[@Archimarathon]

We will do another video on Andrew’s famous “work/life/work balance” essay as well as one on portfolio/cv as promised in the video

[@vujadin82]

seems like Renzo Piano studio...

[@ashleymenegon6319]

But when do we see you both wearing those glasses!!!?

[@ashleymenegon6319]

OK I caught it at the end. 🥸

[@Archimarathon]

Always watch till the end

[@Archimarathon]

Always watch till the end

[@moseskyeba7227]

Great video 👏🏽 What if you have a job interview but can't start the job for 3 months. How do you address that?

[@Archimarathon]

Just tell them

[@mustafizrahman252]

You have to be a god to get an architectural job in Canada

[@kikimbrown]

Can you elaborate on this?

[@efeoz8131]

Always bring a wookie.

[@Archimarathon]

Or wookie cookie. Or drugs

[@jacobeason1363]

1) don’t lie. 2) pretend to be confident with power poses.

[@Archimarathon]

2) It's about understand your body and its physiology. Power poses changes your physiology and psychological state.

[@haseebahmad93]

Hello !! I am haseeb and i am studying diploma of associate engneering as in architecture i want to complete my study with bsc architecture in uk .someone told me about this channel will help you to find university for overseas students

[@amyhogarten5038]

“Don’t Waste peoples time” ; the dude was late for the beginning of the video 🙄

[@fixeddblogg]

Leave the comedy to Key and Peele!

[@jonathanmills8518]

comment

[@Archimarathon]

reply

[@maynardarchitects]

Lol

[@henryhatam6586]

very ridiculous that you are talking about the people like this rude,just feel sorry for you guys