How to Find the Perfect Architecture Firm to Work With? When a student of architecture graduates, the first thing they do is to look for firms that they would like to work for. Whenever you’re trying to decide what career path to pursue post-graduation, it is necessary to do your research well. When you give an interview, you must also ask questions about the company and what they do as well. The main questions to ask yourself when you consider a job are: 1) Do your goals align? - Does this firm work the same sort of projects that you are interested in? Different firms have different sorts of projects such as commercial, residential, airports, hospitals, urban planning, etc. they also specialize in different areas. It is important to be aware of their specialty and whether it aligns with your interests or not. Are you interested in research and development (R&D), or do you want to do graphic designing related to designing the building? 2) How does the firm operate? - It is necessary to know the layout/setup of the office. Are the designers and production team separate? if so, then this may not be the correct office for you. Many top architects in India have large offices where there is clear separation of teams. It is helpful if you get to work on every phase of a project, because as a fresher that is the only way you gain experience and confidence. Some offices put together a team specially for a certain project. This can be great as you interact with different project managers, architects and imbibe their skills, and ways of working. 3) Are there any growth opportunities? - Many employers pay for their employee’s exams and further studies if they continue to work their post studies also. It is a way of retaining good employees with real potential. They may also offer in-house training and development programs. 4) What are their salary and benefit packages? - it is good to have knowledge of the industry and what kind of salary is the standard of employees of all levels. In that way you can also figure out what kind of reimbursement you are being offered. Do not undervalue yourself and make sure you get what you are worth. 5) What is the work culture like? - the environment in an office is a very important factor to take into consideration. Even if you work for the most famous architect in India, if the work culture is not encouraging it is very hard to flourish. Teaching
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should be an aspect that the firm takes seriously. Encouraging leadership, friendly co-workers all contribute to a good work environment. 6) Do their values align with yours? - A work-life balance is very hard to achieve. Working for a company that allows you to have a personal life is important to your social and mental well-being. It is useful to know whether they conduct extracurricular activities for the office, whether festivals and birthdays are celebrated. Therefore, when giving an interview you must make sure you ask some questions as well, to find the perfect fit for you.
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