Architecture and design graduates looking for their first job need to hone their creative skills and demonstrate a “life choice” to their profession in order to open doors, according to a Queensland-based architecture firm.
BASE Architecture’s managing directors, Tim Stewart and Shawn Godwin, said the firm is experiencing an “influx” of job interest, with tens of applications each week.
However, many applicants are offering poorly designed, vague CVs and are failing to cut though the clutter.
“It is important candidates are in tune to how they can create a powerful approach to prospective employers,” Godwin said.
Number one on the list for BASE Architecture is creativity, a key factor to the industry and quality that will be highly sought after in applications.
“Graduates should demonstrate their creativity in their approach because it not only demonstrates their skills, but it shows they have invested time and effort into their application, showing they are serious,” Godwin said.
However, Godwin said CV quality is letting down many candidates, even those who have been in the workforce for decades.
“The quality of your CV is a pointer to your work ethic and lazy CVs immediately suggests a person’s lack of commitment,” Godwin said.
Godwin counts receiving material in word document format, broken web links and generic cover letters as unprofessional and said they will be swiftly dispatched by potential employers.
“However, if unsuccessful in your application, keep a positive attitude and don't take rejection personally as the industry is recovering from a considerable slump.”
