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I have always stressed the importance of having reference letters to accompany your architecture job applications.
If you think of your applications documents as sales tools, the obvious problem is that there is a conflict of interest.
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.
Letters of recommendation are a powerful tool that is often overlooked in the architecture job search process. Sharing the opinion of a third party can boost your application package.
The biggest hurdle for most applicants is how to handle reference letters when you are currently employed. While it would be nice to have a letter from your current supervisor, it is just one of the many sources.
This is an obvious one but make sure who you pick as a reference will have nice things to say about you.
Actually, not only nice but also GREAT, AMAZING things to say about you! The last thing you want is a negative comment that puts you in a worse position than when you started.
To avoid awkwardly cornering your references, ask them by email. This gives them a chance to think about the obligation without putting them on the spot.
Ask "Do you feel you know me well enough to write me a reference?" rather than just "Could you write me a reference?"
Explain to your potential reference why you chose them to speak on your behalf.
Complimenting their skills can be an additional nudge to get them to spend the time. For example, “I would greatly appreciate a letter of reference from you as I have always admired your writing and communication abilities.”
Always thank your potential referee for taking the time to read your email. Be sure to give them enough time, at least a couple of weeks to complete the letter.
Make the deadline clear but not overly demanding. Make sure to get back to them as quickly as possible if they have questions.
If your reference is just handed a blank page they are less likely to finish it or provide something meaningful.
Provide your references with a list of bullet points including projects you have worked on, goals you have accomplished and examples of teamwork or leadership. You can divide these large topics up, so that each letter can cover one area in detail.
Hopefully this has been helpful for your future architecture job applications. Good luck!
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:
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Have a suggestion for a future blog post? Please let me know in the comments below.
