What To Wear To An Architecture Job Interview
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What To Wear To An Architecture Job Interview
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For this article I share my thoughts on what you should wear to an architecture job interview.
“Never wear a backward baseball cap to an interview unless applying for the job of umpire”
—Dan Zevin
What To Wear To An Architecture Job Interview
I always assumed that telling someone to put effort into what they wear to a job interview seemed extremely obvious and not worth mentioning.
However, after seeing some interviewees show up in shorts, I guess I was wrong. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when preparing for your next architecture job interview.
Be sure to also check out my companion article:
7 Things You Must Bring To An Architecture Job Interview (And 5 You Shouldn't)
To help you with your architecture job search, I've created a mega-pack of free resources that includes architecture resumes, cover letters, and an extensive collection of application documents.
Employer first impression
When I spoke to the hiring manager at Zaha Hadid Architects the issue of clothing in interviews came up as an ongoing issue:
“Always attend interviews looking smart and well presented, there is nothing worse than a candidate turning up smelling of cigarettes or alcohol. Being prepared for your interview is imperative.”
Given the architecture profession is a creative field it does have a little leeway. Many firms have a somewhat laid back approach to dress code. While this may be the case on a regular Monday-Friday, don’t just blindly match the office attire.
The employees have already earned the right to dress down, you haven’t. Besides, no one will fault you for overdressing.
This advice also applies to the Skype or video conference interviews in addition to the traditional in-person interview. Even looking sharp for a phone interview can boost your confidence.
Men’s Attire
There is only one option for guys: a suit. Stick with a simple dark color. Gray, black or navy works best. No pinstripes please.
The big mistake I often see when men wear a suit is that it doesn’t fit. You are much better off having a cheaper suit that fits well than an expensive suit that fits like your overweight uncle’s blazer.
Test drive
If you already have a suit make sure you try it on ahead of time so you are not trying to squeeze into something that fit three years ago. If it doesn’t fit, take it to a tailor. They can often make alterations for a fraction of the cost of a new suit.
Get it dry cleaned
This will help give it a fresher look and won’t smell like your closet next to the kitchen.
Ties
For a tie, just a simple solid color will do. Red and blue are always a good bet. Just make sure it is tied to the proper length, you want it to be approximately in line with your belt.
Shoes
For men I recommend Allen Edmonds shoes. They offer extremely high quality, long lasting shoes. I have personally owned several pairs and they last for years. While the upfront cost might be more than a cheap shoe, the value over time is worth it. For example a $65 pair of dress shoes might last a year while a quality shoe can easily last a lifetime.
I suggest a simple shoe like the Plain-Toe Oxfords in black or brown. Paired with a great suit, these will give you the perfect professional look and help you land the job.
Beardville
As for facial hair it is always a good idea to be clean shaven. If you have a beard, as many architects do, just keep it neatly trimmed.
The same goes for hair, get a haircut a week or two before. Also, this isn’t the time to tryout a new style. Stick to what you know.
Women’s Attire
Full disclosure: I know nothing about women’s fashion. I will say that whatever you decide to wear, make sure that it is classy and professional.
I will use this excerpt from the Huffington Post (“Suiting Up for Success: Job Interview Attire for Women,” Huffington Post, July 16, 2013) on women’s interview fashion I found to be quite informative.
A dark, two-piece, gray, navy or black suit is your best option when interviewing with a conservative company. Compliment it with a light colored blouse or cotton shirt.
Steer clear from strapless, spaghetti straps and well-worn tees under the jacket.
Women can wear a black suit easier than men because they can lighten the look with soft colored blouse and accessories.
Pantsuit vs. skirt suit
A pantsuit is generally an acceptable choice for a job interview, although, there are still some exceptions depending on the company. A white or light colored, tailored shirt is an interview staple. Dress up your look with a necklace or other piece of conservative jewelry.
Shoes
A mid heel, closed-toe pump is a safe choice. Regardless of the current shoe trends, your shoe selection for a job interview should be professional and understated.
Details that matter
• Leather purse or briefcase; carry one or the other, not both (you will be carrying your
architecture portfolio)
• Manicured nails with a neutral polish
• Make up; even minimal makeup is an indicator that you value your professional
image
• Neatly groomed hair, worn away from the face
• Clean and polished shoes (Pay special attention to heels and soles)
• Conservative watch with a link or leather band
• Black or neutral colored trench coat (Inclement weather)
Tattoos and piercings
Certainly you should be allowed to express yourself but an interview isn’t the time. For now cover up your T-square tattoo and take out that nose ring.
Again, it is best to err on the side of conservative, odds are the person interviewing you will appreciate it.
As long as you dress in a professional, clean manner you shouldn’t have any issues.
Thanks for reading, I hope this helps you decide what to wear for your next architecture job interview.
Want to find your dream architecture job?
Check out The Architect's Guide Resources.
To help you with your architecture job search, I've created a mega-pack of free resources that includes architecture resumes, cover letters, and an extensive collection of application documents.
Thanks for reading, see also my posts on:
7 Things You Must Bring To An Architecture Job Interview (And 5 You Shouldn't)
The Top 5 Architecture Interview Questions
Where To Apply For Architecture Jobs Online
Good luck!
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Have a suggestion for a future blog post? Please let me know in the comments below.
