As soon as architecture school students graduate, they find themselves facing their first career choice, and that is how to get architecture jobs with no experience and whether to work for small architecture firms or large firms. They might give both options a try before finally deciding where they would like to continue. However, this trial and error process may take longer than it should, or it may label these new graduates as job hoppers. This article might help young architects to make their first career choice. Here, we give you 5 reasons why young architects should consider working for small architecture firms:
1-Being an essential part of a team
A small architecture firm is like a team. It needs the sincere efforts of every member to accomplish its goals. That way, young architects get to be part of the decision-making process. They get to be in contact with clients, contractors, and construction managers. They visit sites and witness everything firsthand. This involvement in all sorts of tasks boosts their self-esteem and makes them feel like they belong.
2- Less hierarchy, faster decisions
According to statistical facts, most architecture firms are actually small, with the majority having less than 10 staff members. This can be more practical for business. Decisions can be taken faster, changes can be made easier, and workers can be shifted between tasks more fluently.
3- Gain more hands-on experience than at a larger firm!
A small architecture firm allows its workers a variety of tasks they do. One can work on a concept for a project, then work on the shop drawings for another. They can get back, later, to the first project and work on its presentation, or they can meet clients and discuss their needs. The work changes every day according to need, which makes it more interesting than the daily repetitive tasks in large firms. In small architecture firms, young architects get to be fully aware of their firm’s mission statement and long and short-term objectives. They get to be in direct contact with the management and the director in person. They receive from their seniors’ direct supervision and personified mentoring, which can be very beneficial to young architects who seek to gain experience.
4-Bonding with Colleagues
In a small architecture firm, employees get to know each other better. They form strong bonds with each other, and even with their regular clients. These bonds affect the work environment positively. They enhance co-operation and the sense of responsibility. They also make the employees feel like they are not socially detached because of the workload.
5- Balanced Work-Life Balance
In small architecture firms, working hours can be more flexible according to need. Direct contact between all members facilitates that. One can finish their assigned tasks or the required working hours for the day, and then they are free to do as they please. Employees in small firms get to have a social life thanks to their flexible working hours. They can spend a long time with family and meet with friends. Also, the variety of tasks, which sometimes include dealing with different people, provide for a more interesting work environment, lowering the chances of depression caused by boredom.
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.
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