u/Mansaf15

I am interviewing for a designer position at a mid size architecture office. It requires 2+ years of experience. I have a little less than that.

I completed the initial HR call as well as the first round interview with the director and project manager virtually. I was called for a second interview (in-person) with the same 2 people + 2 other architects. Any ideas on what to expect? I get very anxious during interviews and the idea of 4 members is stressing me out.

For reference, in the first interview I was asked about my role at my previous job, what softwares I use, team structure etc. I took the initiative to share my screen and show some projects from my portfolio. I ended up presenting the only 2 professional experience projects I have. I skipped over the academic projects because they didn’t seem to have much interest in design.

I guess I’m just not sure what more I have to add to the second interview. I don’t have additional professional projects to show, and feel like I explained my experience as much as possible.
What can I do to prep/ what can I expect in this second interview?

Thank you in advance!

I’m a junior architectural designer preparing for interviews at firms that seem more technical/construction-focused, and I’m struggling a bit with how to walk through portfolio projects.

My instinct is usually to explain the reasoning behind spatial decisions, materials, circulation, lighting, etc., but I worry that comes across as too academic or conceptual.

At the same time, because I’m still junior-level, I don’t have huge stories about solving major construction/site issues. Most of my experience has been in modelling, documentation, coordination, permit drawings, and design development support.

Another thing I’m unsure about is how much of my portfolio I’m actually expected to present in an interview. How can I structure my portfolio presentation to cover the necessary information for each project? Should I just focus on the scope, my role, and general design choices?