At least once in
everyone’s career, whether by choice or circumstance, a job seeker will have to
endure the stressful process that includes identifying, applying to,
interviewing for, being offered, negotiating the terms of, and ultimately
accepting – or rejecting – a job.
During my own job
searches, I have found that my biggest asset is my strong network of personal
and professional connections. Without
them, looking for a job would have been a far more painful process. Here are some suggestions for how to network
your way into a job:
- Classmates: Stay in touch with classmates; you've had
similar experiences and probably travel in similar circles. They know people, and so do you. Perhaps
someone's firm is looking to fill a position? Speak to friends,
family members, previous employers (with whom you've presumably remained
in contact), the girl at the gym, the guy at the grocery store, etc. You
never know whom they know -- or who they know who knows someone else!
- School: Speak to your school's career counselor or
alumni director. Are there
school-related events in which you can participate so that you can meet
people? Do they keep their own job postings? Do you have access to
an alumni database?
- AIA: Attend an AIA event or program and/or join a
committee. Local AIA chapters are always looking for volunteers.
This is a great opportunity to meet people who share at least two
common interests: architecture and the AIA!
- Social
Media: Use social media to your
advantage. Websites like LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. will be great
resources. Do your research. Contact firms to set up an
informational interview and/or firm tour. Many firms – despite their
ability to hire – will still be interested to meet potential candidates
for when positions become available. Also, architects love to talk – and
will happily share their personal experiences. Usually the AIA has an
updated list of the local FAIA members.
Seek them out as they are especially supportive of the young
professionals and would gladly share a tale or two!
- Consultants: If you've worked in a firm before, talk to your
consultants. Your product/material
reps are also great resources. They
are in architecture offices all day long and know which firms are hiring.
They generally have good relationships with people in those firms and
might be able to facilitate a meeting for you.
While it’s more helpful to
forward your materials to someone directly if a firm is hiring, it's important
to note that, in most cases, you can still forward your materials to a firm,
regardless of whether or not it appears to be hiring. Many firms don't
have the time to keep their career postings up-to-date and others keep generic
ads active as a way to solicit resumes from the current pool of job seekers.
This allows a firm to make a quick decision when new work comes into the
office. You want to be at the top of their list!
Finally, don't get
overwhelmed. It may take years to establish an effective network. But,
when you do, you will be delighted to have such a strong support system.
And remember:
- Smile.
Everyone you meet is probably just as nervous as you are!
- Say "thank you.” People are more likely to help you again
if they know how much you've appreciated their help.
- It's a two-way street: What can you offer to the
relationship? Give your new connection another reason to keep in
touch.
About the author:
Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA
joined Bonstra | Haresign ARCHITECTS in Washington, D.C. in February 2012.
The firm focuses on affordable housing and multi-use residential
projects. Previously based in New York City, she also has experience in
sustainable learning environments, high-rise residences, and high-end homes.
Mrs. Cardeli received a B.S. in Architecture from Washington University in St.
Louis (2004) and an M.Arch from Columbia University, GSAPP (2007), where she
serves as an inaugural member of the GSAPP Alumni Association Board and
Co-Chair of its Alumni/Student + Careers Committee. As an active member
of AIA, she was selected to serve on the Education Proposal Review Committee
for its 2013 National Convention, participated in YAF Summit20, and is a
two-time presenter at National Convention. Mrs. Cardeli is a registered
architect in New York State.
Mrs. Cardeli may be
contacted, as follows:
t. LArChitecting
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