How to become a successful architect in the built environment

Architects play a very important role in society. They lead the projection, design and planning of buildings, living spaces and urbanizations. The role of an architect requires a mix of unique skills due to its multifaceted and technical nature. If you’re a mid-level or senior architect, the road ahead still presents many exciting possibilities. The wealth of architectural experience means you’ll have more options and opportunities to develop your career even further. Here are some essential actions points for advancement as a mid-level or senior architect.

PURSUE A SENIOR LEADERSHIP ROLE

An experienced architect often has opportunities to oversee a company’s construction projects, as well as review contracts and designs. With enough experience and expertise, architectural professionals can evolve into leading other senior members of the team. There also could be the chance to move into chief-level positions where you will be able to have a direct influence on the management of a business. For example, chief architects are responsible for the technological needs of a company, which includes evaluating software and assisting employees with all levels of technology and troubleshooting software. There’s also the position of lead architect who meets with clients to discuss budgets, planning and structural specifications. These professionals create the building plan and supervise other architects, so the position requires strong leadership skills and interpersonal skills, as well as creativity. Therefore, it can serve as an excellent step forward for any mid-level professionals. 

KEEPING BUILDING YOUR PORTFOLIO

When you’re early in your career as an architect, building a quality portfolio that showcases your expertise is one of the best ways to stand out. It can be used as a marketing tool for future employers and to provide an overview of previous projects that you’ve worked on. However, it’s still important for mid-level and senior architects to keep building their portfolios over time. This means continuing to highlight your best work, which could be four or five major projects. A portfolio doesn’t replace a CV, but it serves as a way to accentuate your skills and abilities, which could potentially attract new clients. It’s also a way to keep a record of your work and a portfolio can be used as a personal statement, showing the type of architect that you are.

FOCUS ON NETWORKING

Much like other industries, the key to building a successful career in architecture is networking. There are many architectural and building events that give professionals the chance to meet others on a similar career path and make new contacts. The importance of connecting with other senior architects and other people in the industry can’t be understated. This can be through email, arranging lunches and connecting on LinkedIn. Networking is essential for success in any career and it’s a great way to develop your interpersonal skills and learn from others. Interpersonal skills are very important in the built environment as you’ll need to be able to communicate with many different personalities.

BECOME A MENTOR

One of the best ways to accelerate your growth as an architect is to take on mentoring opportunities in the workplace. Mentoring gives professionals the chance to advocate for others and develop their leadership and communication skills. Being a mentor is a great way to impart knowledge and can help build a stronger network of positive relationships, which is critical for success. However, it’s important to remember that the aim of being a mentor is to help the career goals of the mentee. This means you should set goals, provide coaching and share experiences from your own architectural career. Above all, mentorship can be a powerful tool for a mid-level or senior architect who’s looking to move to the next level in their career.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW ROLES IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT?

PSR is a leading recruitment consultancy, specialising in recruiting professionals for the construction industry. We’re a provider of both managerial and technical staff in the UK’s built environment. Our team of consultants are hugely experienced in construction recruitment and always on hand to help with your next career move. We have offices in London, Birmingham, Southampton, Sheffield, Manchester and Stafford. We deliver focused and efficient building recruitment solutions to our clients and candidates. Contact us today to find out more.