Advice for jobseekers during COVID-19

Like many sectors, the architecture and design industry has been affected by the uncertainty caused by COVID-19. We’ve seen firms implement hiring freezes and some have seen job losses. We empathize with employers and employees facing challenges in these unprecedented times. The good news is that there are firms still hiring and taking people on remotely for specific job opportunities. As finding work has become more competitive, and we’re in an employer driven market taking the time to prepare yourself for the job hunt is more important now than ever.

From across our global network, we’ve compiled these top tips for finding work during this time:

• Get your resume and portfolio up-to-date. Present your most recent work first, highlight what you’ve accomplished in recent years, and craft a cohesive representation of who you are as an architect or designer. Double-check spelling and formatting – and make sure your dates and employers match what you list on your LinkedIn profile.
• Take action now – reach out to us to learn more about open positions and check up on your “dream job” firms to see if they are hiring. If you have recently lost your job employers will understand that it is due to COVID-19, but try not to let much time pass before you delve into your job search.
• Consider temporary contract work. This is a great way to begin working with a firm that may not be in a position to offer permanent employment but need someone with your skills. Contract work also allows you to experience different work cultures and collaborate with teams that have embraced working as an online office.
• Embrace the growth mindset and use this time to learn new software and skills. The pandemic has accelerated the need for certain IT skills for people to do their job remotely, so highlight your capabilities to do so. There are seemingly infinite resources online right now.
• Prove how you are flexible and self-motivated. With so much uncertainty employers are looking for people who can think on their feet – emphasize the ways you’ve done so such as volunteering for tasks or projects that were challenging and/or time-constrained.  
• Demonstrate your creative problem-solving skills.  As architects and designers, this is an area you already excel in and it is needed now more than ever before. Show examples of your design-thinking process in your resume and portfolio.
• Be a clear communicator. Write a cover letter that reflects why you’re really interested in a particular job, respond to emails promptly, and prepare yourself for video interviews. Attention to these details demonstrates to employers how capable you are of working independently.
• Pivot your career focus. It could be that the sector you’ve been working in will be significantly impacted, or maybe you’ve always fancied a career shift. Use this time to reevaluate, potentially learn new skills, and consider other complementary opportunities.