How to Get Your First Part 1 Architectural Assistant Job
Aylin Round
Founder @ArchJobs | ??♀? Architectural Recruiter in Dubai | ???♀? Uncovering Architectural Misinformation | ???? Architectural Career Coaching | ?? Insta: aylin.round
If you're seeking your first Part 1 Architectural Assistant position and want to improve your chances of landing an interview, read on for valuable tips and tricks. From growing your professional network to crafting a well-written and structured CV, Sample Portfolio, and Cover Letter, these documents are crucial to your application's success. They are the initial materials employers and recruiters will review, so how can you make them stand out? Should you use keywords? What sort of salary can I expect, and what do I need to be aware of when joining a RIBA Chartered Practice? What should you include in your Sample Portfolio? Additionally, how can you improve your technical skills? Don’t worry, we've teamed up with ArchAdemia mia to provide support. Let's delve into the details.
Structure of the article:
Let's go!
1. Section: Ways To Increase Your Visibility
As a student, how can you increase your chances of securing your either first or next architectural role? Let’s be honest, finding your first Part 1 Architectural Assistant role straight after uni can be challenging and trust me, you are not alone. Here’s what I recommend you should do. Grow your professional network while you’re still in uni. Especially when you go back to do your Part 2. The best way to grow your network is by using LinkedIn. LinkedIn will continue to be a valuable platform for many years to come, and it's worth investing time in growing your network.
Your network will become a powerful tool when the time comes for you to search for a role.?
But let’s hear some more advice from my network:?
Ian Lowe e
Paul Iddon on
You can read the full?LinkedIn post here.?
If you want to learn how to set up your LinkedIn profile - read my article “Transform your LinkedIn Profile in 10 Steps & Increase your professional visibility”
Where to find Architectural Networking Events in the UK?
We always talk about how important it is to grow your professional network, especially for architectural students, but where can you find them? There are so many options these days, some are being held online or in person. You could attend an awards ceremony, go to a talk, visit an exhibition, take part in webinars, join a CPD session, or just a normal networking event where you can spend time talking and meeting like-minded people like yourself. Luckily, there are plenty of events across the UK, and I will share with you where you can find them and why it’s worth growing your professional network.
You can read the full article here and understand where to find them and why your professional network will play a vital part in your career.?
2. Section: CV (Example)
What does CV stand for?
“A CV is a short written description of your education, qualifications, previous jobs, and sometimes also your personal interests, that you send to an employer when you are trying to get a job.” Source:?Cambridge Dictionary??
General CV Formatting Tips
Basic Structure of your CV (Example Below)
The key parts your CV should cover are as follows:
8. Hobbies and Interests - Photography, live drawing, sketching, pottery
9. References - this could be your tutor or a former manager
?? Tip: If you have no relevant work experience, I would suggest focussing on your university work and soft skills.?
Which Job Title can I use?
While you are a Part 1, you need to stick to the title of Part 1 Architectural Assistant. Under no circumstances should you include the word "Architect" in your job title. "Architect" is a protected title here in the UK, and you can only use it if you are registered with the ARB. The reason I'm highlighting this is because I've noticed more and more juniors using "Part 1 Architect", and that is incorrect. Hiring managers and recruiters do not view this favourably.
Are the CV templates on Canva compliant with ATS?
After doing more research, it appears that Canva provides you with a lot of good-looking CV templates; however, they are not optimised for Application Tracking Systems (ATS). Instead, I would suggest creating your CV using one of the free Google Docs templates or using the website Teal.
Please note that to create your CV through Google Docs, you will need to create a Google account (but I’m sure most of us have one already).
Simply click on Google Drive, then click on the big plus 'New' button, and select 'Google Docs' -> 'From a template’.
As of now, Google Docs offers 5 different resume/CV templates. I personally prefer the layout of “Resume Serif”.
Which Keywords should I use in my CV??
Whether you’re sending your application directly or uploading your details via a company's recruitment portal using relevant keywords will help your application stand out.?
Below are the most commonly used keywords for any architectural positions:
Presentation skills, technical skills, design skills, concept design, planning applications, coordination, liaising with clients, UK Building Regulations, communication skills, Revit, AutoCAD, Photoshop, SketchUp, InDesign etc.
Applications that contain relevant keywords are much more likely to be shortlisted for interviews.?
How does an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) impact my application?
Most recruitment agencies and mid to large-size companies use ATS systems which lets them store, filter, organise, and track applications but also search their database for suitable candidates by entering relevant keywords (skills, location, job titles etc.).?
It's important to understand that when submitting your application via an ATS, you're sending it to software and not an actual person. Therefore, your CV needs to be ATS-friendly and optimised to ensure that it passes the initial screening and makes it to a human reviewer.
To learn more on this particular subject, read?How to Create an ATS-Friendly CV.
Do Hiring Managers read every Single Word?
No chance. They will look for job titles, keywords, companies you worked for, length of employment and skill sets.
That is why a well-structured CV that catches their eye by reflecting keywords from the job description is so important - this is what they are scanning for.
Once you have their attention, they will look at your CV in more detail.
Should you Work with a Recruiter if you’re a Part 1?
I know it’s daunting but you need to be proactive and approach practices yourself. It’s very unlikely that companies will work with Recruitment Agencies for a Part 1 position as they want to find ambitious, determined and motivated staff. However, there are architectural recruiters out there who do work with Part 1 Architectural Assistants. But what I want to make clear is, a lot of practices rather find Part 1’s through their network and via direct applications.?
I require Sponsorship, can a Recruiter help me?
I'll be honest here, you will most likely not find a recruiter who will be able to help you. The reason why UK recruiters are having a hard time placing candidates who require sponsorship is that the costs are too high for the practices. Not only would the practice need to pay the recruiter, but they would also need to cover the candidate's sponsorship. Therefore, you need to be proactive and contact practices/companies that are on the UK Register of Licensed Sponsors. You can find the full list by visiting the UK Government website.
Should I Add any Hobbies?
Yes, you can add hobbies but this is optional. If you decide to add some hobbies, keep it short and sweet. Maybe you and the hiring manager have something in common and it could break the ice and make you more memorable.
??Tip: When listing software skills, hobbies, and experience levels, avoid using images, diagrams, or pie charts. Instead, write them out clearly, like "Revit, Photoshop, AutoCAD”. The ATS won’t be able to read/translate the images.?
Do I need to Add a Picture of Myself?
No, you do not need to add a picture of yourself, and I would advise against it. There is a law in the UK, Ireland and the United States which protects job seekers from being discriminated against.?
That being said, people might have unconscious biases and you don’t want to give anyone a reason to dismiss you before even getting to interview.
“It is against the law to treat someone less favourably than someone else because of a personal characteristic such as religion, sex, gender reassignment or age.”?Source:?Gov.uk
3. Section: Sample Portfolio?(Cover Page Examples) + FAQs
What is a Portfolio?
An architectural portfolio is a unique body of work which represents your experience as a Designer. A portfolio should be used to showcase your best work that you can share with potential employers or clients. It provides a true reflection of your architectural skills, your design approach, technical abilities and how you have evolved in your career.
General Sample Portfolio Formatting Tips
2 Different Types of Portfolios
There are 2 different types of Portfolios - the Sample and the Full Portfolio. However, before you start organising your work into a portfolio, ask yourself “Who is my audience?”, “What am I trying to achieve?”.
If you’re looking for a new job, it is common to submit your CV, Cover Letter with a Sample Portfolio.?
Your Sample Portfolio goes hand in hand with your CV and shouldn’t be longer than 8-10 pages and no larger than 8MB in size. It must compliment your CV i.e. if you mentioned your design and technical skills, the hiring manager would expect to see evidence of that in your Sample Portfolio.?
Once you have received an interview invite, that’s when your Full Portfolio springs into action. You’ll be able to show more relevant work examples and prove you’re the right fit for the job during the interview. Your Portfolio could include various key projects you worked on, show your involvement across various stages, completed projects (if applicable), your construction detailing skills, your creative problem-solving skills and your design skills.
What to include in your Sample Portfolio?
As an architecture student or intern then having a portfolio is an absolute must. You can show future employers your academic work, how you think, your creativity, and how you tackle different design problems. Employers will want to see that you have a general understanding of all the procurement stages
New and prospective students need to demonstrate that they have the skills, basic understanding and passion for the subject, rather than the physical work to prove it.?
Need to Improve Your Technical Skills and Enhance Your Portfolio?
At ArchJobs, we are always looking for ways to support our community. We understand that many Part 1 Architectural Assistants may not have had extensive technical exposure and may feel that their portfolios are lacking. Simultaneously, practices prefer to hire candidates with better technical knowledge who have used various software before.
That's why we've partnered with ArchAdemia, who share our mission of providing architectural professionals with the technical skills they need to advance in their careers.
For students, ArchAdemia is your bridge from theory to practice. Software tutorials under the guidance of industry professionals will give you the capability to make an impact from day 1. Master the art of drawing, manage projects like a pro, and immerse yourself in podcasts that give you the inside scoop from those who've paved the way. Say goodbye to the daunting transition from academia to industry; ArchAdemia is here to make you practice-ready.
But ArchAdemia isn't just tutorials and resources. It's a vibrant community where passions meet, discussions flourish, and connections are forged. It's a space where students and professionals alike share, learn, and grow together, transcending traditional boundaries.
With 35 meticulously curated courses, offering everything from beginner basics to advanced expertise in parametric design and BIM, we will help you to master architecture. Whether you're refining your software skills or diving deep into design theory, we’ve got you covered.
To get 10% off your Annual Membership subscription, simply enter ARCHJOBS10.
2 Most Common Ways to Create Portfolios
There are a few different ways you can present your Portfolio.
PDF Portfolios:?PDF Portfolios are a quicker and easier way to share your work and you can prepare different versions. Also, most practices specifically ask for a Sample Portfolio in PDF version. Don’t forget to name your document - “Your Full Name - Sample Portfolio''.?
Portfolio Hosting Sites:?Two platforms which keep popping up are Issuu.com and Behance, and they can be a great way to create and share your work. But I would recommend against it as I find the websites rather slow to load and I feel like it ruins the whole experience.
There are also options to print your Portfolio but that is very expensive and some also build their own website, which can take much longer to create.
The moral of the story - stick to PDFs.
Layout and Design?
Design Software
When it comes to designing the layout for your Portfolio. Adobe InDesign provides simple tools that let you easily create, drag & drop and edit documents.?
In case you want to edit any drawings/images, I would suggest using Photoshop and Illustrator.
??Tip: Please never send a Powerpoint presentation or dozens of single drawings to a hiring manager. This will look extremely unprofessional and they will probably not even open it.
Cover Page + Examples
First impressions count - keep it simple. You could either use one of your hand sketches or go for more of a minimalistic look.
??Tip: On the cover page and last page, you should include your name, phone number and email address.
Below are some simple but clean cover pages
Layout?
Less is more! The layout is very important and shouldn’t be confusing or busy. The way you organise and present your portfolio says a lot about you and your presentation skills.?
When the hiring manager looks through your Portfolio, is it easy to follow and understand, is there a clear cut between projects, have you provided them with a short description?
??Tip: Only use high-quality images, stick to a font colour and present it in chronological order.?
Length
For your Sample Portfolio, aim for a max of 10 pages - remember it's only a sample.
Your Full Portfolio can be up to 20-30 pages long. Show them your best/recent work but don’t fall into the trap of showing them everything you ever worked on.?
Portfolio Do’s and Don’ts
领英推荐
Things you should do
? Prepare 2 different Portfolios (Sample and Full Portfolio)?
? Only select your best work - this goes for both Sample and Full Portfolio
? Showcase your design skills and stick to a clear and simple layout
? Include university work?
? Images need to be crisp and clear
? Choose the right front cover for your Portfolio - first impressions count
? Write a short paragraph under each image and explain the scheme, what problem you are trying to solve, what software you used, any key outcomes of the project etc.
? Provide a short description - max 100 words per image
? Showcase different software abilities (if possible)
? Add hand sketches (they love hand sketches - it’s a great skill to have)
? Start in chronological order - start with your most recent work?
Things you should avoid doing
? Don’t make your portfolios too long; Sample Portfolio should be a max of 10 pages long and under 8MB and your Full Portfolio should be under 30 pages.?
? Don’t start with your oldest work
? Don’t make your Portfolio too busy - this will only distract?
? Don’t make it too wordy
? Don’t duplicate similar projects over and over again. If applicable, show them a range of different schemes.?
? Don’t change the layout halfway through - stick to one.
? Don’t use multiple fonts - max 2
? Don't use drawings/images from others and claim they are yours?
? Don't send single drawings or images - it should be all in one document
4. Section: Cover Letter (2 Examples)
What is a Cover Letter?
“The cover letter is a formal business letter which is often the first contact with a prospective employer. It serves as an introduction to you and your background experience. Since it is usually the first impression you make on the employer, you want it to be your best.” Source:?Oxy.edy
General Cover Letter Formatting Tips
Why a Well-Written Cover Letter is Essential to Your Job Application
When applying for a job, it's easy to focus all your attention on perfecting your CV and forget about the importance of a cover letter. However, a well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and being passed over for the position.
A cover letter serves as an introduction to who you are, highlighting your qualifications and explaining why you are the best candidate for the job. It's a chance to showcase your personality, experiences, and skills in a way that goes beyond your CV or job application.
In fact, some employers may even ask specific questions in their cover letter requirements such as your notice period, salary expectations, or why you want to work for them. A well-crafted cover letter can demonstrate your attention to detail, enthusiasm for the position, and professionalism.
Ultimately, a cover letter can be a critical part of the job application process. It shows potential employers that you have taken the time to research the company and the position, and that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity. Don't overlook the importance of this document – take the time to craft a well-written cover letter to increase your chances of getting hired.
Do I Need to Attach a Cover Letter to Every Application?
One common question that job seekers ask is whether they need to attach a cover letter to every job application they submit. The answer to this question is simple: you should only include a cover letter if the job advert specifically asks for one.
While it's always a good idea to have a general cover letter ready in case you need it, it's important to tailor your application to the specific job you're applying for. This means reading the job advert carefully and following any instructions provided by the employer. If they ask for a cover letter, make sure you include one that is tailored to the job and showcases why you're the best fit for the role.
On the other hand, if the job advert doesn't mention a cover letter, it's safe to assume that the employer doesn't require one. In this case, you should focus on creating a strong CV and making sure that your application meets all the requirements listed in the job advert.
Attaching a cover letter when it's not required can actually work against you, as it may indicate that you haven't read the job advert carefully. So, always check the job advert for specific instructions and follow them closely to maximise your chances of success.
How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
While you want to make sure that your cover letter contains all the necessary information, you also don't want it to be too long. A good rule of thumb is to keep your cover letter to no longer than half an A4 page.
Your cover letter should be easy to scan and read quickly. A lengthy cover letter can be overwhelming for a hiring manager or recruiter, who likely has to review dozens, if not hundreds, of applications.
Remember that the purpose of a cover letter is to provide a brief introduction to who you are, what qualifications you have, and why you're the best candidate for the job. You don't need to go into exhaustive detail about every aspect of your career history. Instead, focus on the most important details, such as your relevant skills and experiences, and why you're interested in the position.
By keeping your cover letter concise and to the point, you'll increase the chances that the hiring manager or recruiter will take the time to read it and consider you for the position.
Why Generic Cover Letters Don’t Work
A common mistake that job seekers make is sending a generic cover letter alongside their resume. While it may seem like a time-saver to use a template and simply swap out the company name, this approach can actually harm your chances of landing the job.?
Hiring managers and recruiters can instantly tell when a cover letter has not been tailored to the specific job and company.?
A generic cover letter can give the impression that you are not genuinely interested in the position or the company, and it fails to showcase how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the job.
How to Research a Company
Before you start crafting your cover letter, it's useful to research the company you're applying to. Not only will this help you tailor your cover letter to their needs, but it will also help you determine if the company is the right fit for you and make your Cover Letter sound less generic.?
Here are some ways to research a company:
By researching the company, you can show in your cover letter that you understand their needs and are genuinely interested in working for them. Additionally, it can help you determine if the company is a good fit for your career goals and values.?
I appreciate that you can't always invest that much time into every single application. However, I am a firm believer in quality over quantity, and the aim should never be to send out hundreds of applications every single day.
Which Keywords should I use in my Cover Letter??
Whether you’re sending your application directly or uploading your details via a company's recruitment portal using relevant keywords will help your application stand out.?
Below are the most commonly used keywords for any architectural positions:
Presentation skills, communication skills, team player, organisational skills, time management skills, creative, design skills, technical skills, pro-active, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, Revit, Autocad, Photoshop, Sketchup, InDesign etc.
Basic Structure of your Cover Letter (plus Examples)
You should structure your Cover Letter in 4 parts.
The first paragraph?in your Cover Letter should include why you’re contacting them, the position you are applying for and where you saw the role advertised.?
Second paragraph, explain to them why you would like to work for them (do you like the projects they work on, have they recently won any awards, have you been following the practice for a while etc.) and what skills you offer.?
Third paragraph, highlight any of your key skills and show them what you could bring to the table i.e. Revit, UK Building Regulations, technical skills, design skills, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and team player.?
The fourth paragraph, summarise why you’re interested and why you’re the right fit for the role.
Example 1: Part 1 Architectural Assistant Cover Letter
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to express my interest in the Part 1 Architectural Assistant position at [Company]. As an aspiring architect with a strong foundation in architectural education and a passion for design, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to your team.
Having recently completed my architectural studies at [University], I am eager to embark on my professional journey and gain practical experience in a renowned firm like [Company]. I have been following your projects and have been impressed by your commitment to innovative and sustainable design solutions.
During my academic training, I developed a solid understanding of architectural principles and acquired proficiency in key software tools, including Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite. These technical skills, combined with my ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively, have enabled me to actively contribute to design projects and deliver high-quality work.
What sets me apart is my strong drive to learn and grow as an architectural professional. I am committed to staying up to date with industry trends and eager to contribute my creativity and problem-solving abilities to meaningful projects. I believe that [Company] can provide me with the mentorship and challenging opportunities necessary to enhance my skills and develop my career further.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion align with the goals and vision of [Company].
Sincerely,[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Example 2: Part 1 Architectural Assistant Cover Letter
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am excited to apply for the Part 1 Architectural Assistant position at [Company]. With a strong background in architectural education and a passion for innovative and sustainable design, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Having recently completed my architectural studies at [University], I am eager to gain practical experience in a renowned firm like [Company]. I have experience in collaborating on large-scale residential schemes and possess strong skills in sustainable design.
I am confident that my attention to detail, strong work ethic, and passion for design would enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. Joining [Company] would provide an ideal platform for me to develop further and contribute to projects that align with my values.
Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience to discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Company].
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Before submitting your application, find out the name of the hiring manager/director. This will not only leave a good first impression behind but will also show that you invested time in carefully preparing your application. If you’re not certain, address it to ‘Dear Hiring Manager’.
How Not to Start Your Cover Letter: Tips for Addressing the Hiring Manager
One of the most important aspects of writing a cover letter is addressing the hiring manager appropriately. However, it can be challenging to know exactly how to do this, especially if you are not sure who will be reading your application.?
Here are some tips for addressing the hiring manager in your cover letter:
By taking the time to address the hiring manager appropriately, you can make a great first impression and show that you are a professional and serious candidate for the position.
5. Salaries, Living Wage and RIBA Chartered Practices
What are the usual salary ranges for a Part 1 Architectural Assistant in the UK?
I am joining a RIBA Chartered Practice, do they have to pay a different minimum salary?
Yes, if you are joining a RIBA Chartered Practice, they will have to pay you the Living Wage which is set by the Living Wage Foundation and which is different to the National Minimum Wage done by the UK Government. The current hourly rates are
What is the current Living Wage?
The current Living Wage in the UK stands at ￡12 per hour and ￡13.15 per hour in London. Please note, the Living Wage is different from the National Living Wage set by the UK Government.
What is a RIBA Chartered Practice, and what does it have to do with the Living Wage?
Being a RIBA Chartered Practice in the UK signifies that the architectural company is officially recognised and accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). This accreditation is a mark of quality and professionalism within the field of architecture. To achieve and maintain chartered status, a practice must adhere to certain standards, including ethical guidelines, professional conduct, and the provision of quality services.
Additionally, RIBA Chartered Practices are required to pay at least the Living Wage to all their staff, as defined by the Living Wage Foundation, ensuring fair compensation for employees.
So, what does that actually mean?
If you join a RIBA Chartered Practice, they are required to pay all of their staff at least the current Living Wage.
Let's assume you're a junior receiving a job offer from an RIBA Chartered Practice. Your minimum salary needs to be, depending on the working hours and location:
If the practice offers you less than the above figures, they are breaching the RIBA Code of Practice Conduct.?
You can always refer back to the RIBA Code of Practice Document - see Section 3.6.3.?
What to do if your RIBA Chartered Practice does not follow Living Wage Standards?
If you find yourself working at a RIBA Chartered Practice and realise that your current salary does not meet the Living Wage standards, you have a couple of options. You can either discuss the matter with your director/HR team or reach out to the RIBA team directly, informing them that your current practice is not following the guidelines. You can contact them via email at [email protected].
How do you know if the Practice is Chartered?
There are a few simple ways you can identify RIBA Chartered Practice. You can either go on the RIBA website and find a practice by name or you might see the logo on the company's website.?
So, the next time you're in an interview at a RIBA Chartered Practice and they inquire about your salary expectations, you can confidently state that, based on your research into current market rates and in alignment with the Living Wage, you are seeking a minimum of ￡XYZ (depending on the working hours). If they are unwilling to meet the minimum, it's a big red flag. It may be in your best interest to explore other opportunities, and it could be worth considering reaching out to RIBA via email, as such behaviour should not be tolerated - [email protected].
To learn more on this subject please read UK Architectural Salaries, Living Wages, Unpaid Overtime and more.
My Final Words of Advice
Congratulations on making it to the end of this article! Finding your first Part 1 Architectural Assistant role can be challenging, especially when there are more graduates than available positions. However, I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights. Make sure your CV, Cover Letter, and Sample Portfolio are polished and ready to go. Don't hesitate to make adjustments and experiment to see what works best for you.
It's a good idea to ask friends, tutors, and family to check your CV for any errors. Make sure your documents are free of spelling mistakes and focus on quality rather than quantity. Also, make it a habit to grow your professional network. When attending events or talks, engage with people around you and connect with them on LinkedIn.
If you want to strengthen your technical skills and not only update your portfolio but also join a community with likeminded people, head over to ArchAdemia . To get 10% off your Annual Membership subscription, simply enter ARCHJOBS10.
Additionally, you can use?ArchJobs to look for a Part 1 Architectural Assistant role. Explore our resources on?Part 1 Salary Guides?and other?articles which dive deep into various recruitment-related topics.
Founder @ArchJobs | ??♀? Architectural Recruiter in Dubai | ???♀? Uncovering Architectural Misinformation | ???? Architectural Career Coaching | ?? Insta: aylin.round
6 个月I have just updated the article and added a new section called "Salaries, Living Wage and RIBA Chartered Practices" ??
Founder @ArchJobs | ??♀? Architectural Recruiter in Dubai | ???♀? Uncovering Architectural Misinformation | ???? Architectural Career Coaching | ?? Insta: aylin.round
7 个月I have just updated the article. ??
Graduate from the Manchester School of Architecture
1 年This is incredibly helpful!
--
1 年Tired to try find a job ??
Architect & Interior Designer
1 年Appreciate your sharing; this article will greatly benefit numerous individuals