1.Recognize your goals and work towards them
Are you doing it just for the money? Or prestige? Or is it something bigger and deeper than that? While money, surely, matters, it somehow comes along the way, and so does the prestige. Setting them as ultimate goals could move you nowhere. Think more about what you will be adding to this world and how you will be of service to its people. Develop yourself with that goal in mind: “I want to make the world a better place to live in,” and then everything else and more will just come along.
2.Keep yourself updated with the latest news in and outside the field
Knowing what is going on in the world is vital to your work as an architect. Try to keep track of the latest projects, the emerging architects and practices, the new competitions, and the award winners. Also, be aware of the current political events, changing economies, and latest scientific discoveries. It will all affect your work in one way or another.
3.Make use of the rapidly growing technologies and stay informed
Some architects prefer to ignore the developments in the tools and techniques of architecture practice. They believe they can go on as they have always done, and things will work out. However, the advancements in design computation and software development have changed the way things work. They have accelerated the pace and expanded the possibilities. So, keeping up with the old ways and resisting change could get you left behind, far away from the competition. Try to keep track of the latest updates in design software, and learn what may be useful to you and enhance your practice.
4.Socialize with the community
Meet with your friends and engage with the community. Attend social events and go to neighborhood gatherings. Learn more about your social circle, for it should reflect on the architecture you provide them with. Make time for family, and remember that they will be living in the world you shall build as an architect.
5.Take on volunteering
There is a good way you can serve your community and gain experience as well, and there are many ways for you, as an architect, to be helpful. For example, you can give free tour guiding services to local historical sites, raising the community’s awareness and pride of their local heritage.
You can participate in the renovation of your old school, or design that little annex for the neighborhood orphanage. You can teach little kids how to read or draw or help high school students with choosing their career paths or preparing for architecture school.
When considering your next career move, plan proactively and create Portfolios that include your best work. Consider looking into finding a mentor with Architect-US, and improving your Portfolios with our Portfolio Plans and Career Advice Program. We provide coaching and personalized mentorship, so you can have a professional and experienced take on your next steps in your career, as well as a great team to confide in.
