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Architectural firms are dynamic ecosystems, that are driven by creativity, dedication, and a passion for creating spaces that make the world a better place. Choosing the appropriate architect to join your team can be a critical decision for any architectural firm. Not only must the potential applicants possess the technical abilities and skills, but also resonate with the ethics, values, and visions of the firm.

To find the perfect fit for your company, the interview process always plays a pivotal role. And the questions asked in the interview should unearth the candidates’ character and potential, to help the firm choose a fair employee.

PRE-INTERVIEW PREPARATIONS

It becomes very indicative to design a comprehensive interview framework which makes the process well-ordered. You can begin by defining the objectives that will delineate throughout the interview process making sure that all candidates are assessed using the same set of criteria and questions. Consistency will allow for fair and unbiased decisions, avoiding the risk of making decisions on the basis of subjective impressions.

Each architectural firm emerges with their own ethos and identity which is unique in their own ways. Hence these questions have been curated to be adaptable to be altered to your specific priorities.

Here are some comprehensive questions to ask to make sure you have made an informed choice when choosing the potential candidates.

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1) Can you share a portfolio of the relevant projects that you’ve assisted previously?

You can begin by discussing the architect’s portfolio. Inquire about some projects they’ve previously worked on and understand their ideologies that range between your firm’s objectives. This will enable you to uncover the experience and expertise they hold in this field that align to your practice. It will tell you more about their work ethic, skills, and professional demeanor.

2) What aspects of architecture most interest you?

Recognize what their personal interests in the field of architecture are. The background of how their career paths traversed in this direction and what inspired them to gravitate towards architecture. You may make it interesting by asking them about their alternative career choices.

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3) Tell us about some of your most-liked architects and their works or ideologies that you fancy?

This question will give you an understanding of the candidate’s knowledge of the history of architecture and how well aware he is of the roots of his profession. You may ask about how the works of their admired architects have inspired them or whether they would like to work with them in the future.

4) What are your future plans and where do you see yourself in 5 years?

A very familiar and frequently asked question that will lead you to recognize how do they envision their role in your firm's growth and success. This question will help you know their potential for long-term aspirations and commitment both.

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5) What kind of tools and softwares are you most proficient in?

An architect’s comprehensive expertise in software and technology stands beneficial for the effective execution of the projects. Hence make sure to find out the software they are familiar with and how they will use the tools for your design processes.

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6) What is your outlook on collaborations within and outside the design teams? Can you share a project where you’ve collaborated closely with a client?

Inquire about the architect’s stance on working within a design team and their ability to effectively communicate and productively collaborate with other architects. Since working in teams also includes multiple perspectives and opinions, ask the candidate about their approach on receiving criticism and the steps they take to tackle them and enhance their performances based on it.

7) How do you deal with creative challenges and design constraints?

It is always crucial to investigate the architect’s problem-solving strategies. Make sure to ask them about their experience in navigating any hurdles or strenuous projects previously. Understanding their ability to perform under constraints can help you fairly allocate them in the right kind of team.

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8) What sustainable design practices do you believe are the most important in contemporary architecture? And how do you keep up with the latest innovative industry trends and technologies?

The answer to this question will showcase the experience and knowledge of the architect around the topic of sustainability, which is a very prominent domain in architecture. It will give you an understanding of their perception and dedication towards environmentally responsible architecture. Also, inquire about how they stay updated with the latest news and what their current favourite technologies are.

9) What are your stances on the emerging AI tools? Do you use them in your design practices?

Know how well-versed they are with the top most emerging trends and tools and how they will incorporate artificial intelligence to make the design processes more fruitful.

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10) What excites you the most about joining our firm? And how do you see yourself fitting into the expansion and success of our firm?

This question will reveal their excitement to join your firm and will encourage them to connect their personal motivation with the growth and success of the firm. You ask about their forte and what area in architecture they are the most excited to work around.

11) Can you describe the type of work environment and team chemistry you thrive the most in?

You can begin by discussing the architect’s portfolio. Inquire about some projects they’ve previously worked on that range between your firm’s objectives. This will enable you to uncover the experience and expertise they hold in fields crucial to your practice.

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12) Lastly what are your personal key takeaways from today’s interview? Would you like to share or talk about anything else that you might think is necessary for us to know about?

To conclude you can ask them about there takeaways where the candidates get to summarize their thoughts and express anything additional or that might have been missed out. The later part of the question is an open-ended question that invites the candidate to share any additional data which they might think is relevant for the firm to know.

The concluding questions not only give some additional information but also let the candidate make a lasting impression and exhibit their interest in associating with your firm.

POST – INTERVIEW EVALUATION

After conducting the interviews of the candidates, you should head on to organizing an evaluation session before finalizing the elected ones. Their performances should be assessed on the basis of their responses during the interview. Make sure to include the experts in the firm to aid with the process of selection.

Remember that along with designers, you also require storytellers, problem solvers, and agents of change. These questions will assess you in drawing out all the necessary details you may require to move ahead with the selection process.

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Text provided by Sanskruti More -

Sanskruti is an architecture student with a keen intrigue for both the written word and the world of design. She is passionate about exploring the architecture that travels beyond the tangible designing and explores the stories, emotions and inspirations of the intangible that help experience spaces more intimately. She also believes that it is a dynamic art form with the potential to stimulate, connect and transform peoples' perceptions.