The Young Architect's Guide to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
I’m not even sure how to start this article. The word ‘unprecedented’ has been used a lot already in 2020, but it’s relevant now more than ever. If you are an architecture student or graduate of architecture in Australia, or indeed anywhere in the world, you are probably anxiously wondering what the coming months hold for you.
One thing I’ve learned since starting My First Architecture Job is that many of you aren’t sure where to turn to find answers to your questions, or the resources that you need. So, this article will be my attempt at pulling together everything I can think of that might assist you in this time of uncertainty. Unlike most articles, I will keep this one ‘live’ and will update it when new information or resources come to light - so if you have suggested additions please send them through.
Upfront, I want to highlight this government resource to make sure you are well equipped and resourced to take care of your mental health. Head To Health connects you with the right digital mental health resources for your needs and this is their COVID-19 specific page.
Secondly, let’s cover off some other big ones:
Australia’s Fair Work Ombudsmen has pulled together this Coronavirus and Australian Workplace Laws page which shares information on your rights regarding working from home, entitlements related to reduced work hours or being stood down, as well as issues relating to being stuck overseas or in quarantine.
If you’re financially affected by COVID-19 this Australian Government page summarises all of the payments and service you may be entitled to.
Now, let’s look at our industry more specifically:
The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) is maintaining this COVID-19 Update with industry-specific information, resources, and suggestions.
If you were heading into the registration process, then this page from the AACA is for you.
The Student Organised Network for Architecture (SONA, the student arm of the AIA) published this great list of resources on their Facebook page.
The Association of Consulting Architects is also building a collection of articles and resources, primarily aimed at employers.
It may also be worth keeping an eye on the Industry News page of the Building Designers Association Australia.
Similarly, I’ll be keeping watch on the Master Builders Australia for any industry related updates such as construction material supply.
And don’t forget that the Parlour Guides to Equitable Practice are always available.
That covers all of the resources - please let me know if you find any others worth sharing.
For those of you who are studying, you’re likely moving to remote study. I assume some Universities are going to be better equipped to manage this than others. My main advice here is to be proactive about your own education and take control of your own development and success rather than playing the victim. Keep an eye on Successful Archi Student as I’m sure this is going to be an increasing topic of interest and Kyle (the founder) is based in Australia.
On to the bigger picture, what does it mean to be an architecture student or graduate during a seemingly inevitable recession? I’ll be mulling on this and hopefully providing more resources in the coming months, but for now, I have the following suggestions:
If you are currently employed:
Knuckle down. Now is not the time to be disproportionately entitled. Young architecture staff are going to be vulnerable in downsizing firms due to a decrease in work that is inevitable in a recession.
Try to be as valuable as possible to your firm. Just because you’re younger/less experienced, doesn’t mean you don’t offer skills that others in the office don’t have (for example, many students in an office are the photoshop/rendering experts, so hold on to this.) Be a model team member, diligent, dependable, and as valuable as you can be.
Maintain relationships. Now is not the time to pick a fight. Everyone will be a little vulnerable or on edge during tough times so be wary of pushing anyone’s buttons. Try to contribute to strong, healthy, positive relationships within the office, especially with the decision-makers.
Look for opportunities to up-skill, whether this is to become more valuable in your firm or to be more agile if you do happen to be let go.
Keep your resume and portfolio up to date in case you find yourself job hunting. (Check out the free Job Seeker Workbook on our page and at least have a glance through it so you’re prepared if you find yourself job hunting.)
Be proactive. One article I was reading suggested that if you know cuts are very likely to happen then be proactive about meeting with your boss, expressing your commitment to the firm, and offering to work more flexibly or in a different role. I think this advice could be valuable in the right situation, but I would caution you to carefully consider whether this approach is right for you and your firm, and done at the right time. The last thing you want is to come across as offering to be the first to have hours cut.
Diversify your income. Now is a great time to consider looking for opportunities for multiple income streams, in-case one falters. Personally, I’m a fan of The Side Hustle Show podcast and Smart Passive Income podcast for an incredible wealth of ideas on this topic.
If you’re not currently employed:
You really need to take job hunting and developing industry relationships seriously. We’ve enjoyed a reasonable abundance of architecture jobs recently in Australia and it’s lowered the job hunting bar. I guarantee it’s about to be lifted so make sure your portfolio and resume are professional and compelling, that you’re making the most of all possible networking avenues, and you’re hustling your way to the top of the pile. Again, please check out the free Job Seeker Workbook on our page, (there’s also a Job Interview Preparation Workbook in our shop.)
Keep education jobs in mind. Lots of people return to school or take courses during a recession, so consider your own potential to find a job in an educational forum.
Upskill while you’re waiting. Make the most of any extra time you have by increasing your skill set, particularly in areas that might make you more employable.
Think outside the box. I know a local architecture firm who are now quite successful but started up purely because they coudln’t get jobs in a firm as graduates during the previous recession. Perhaps you can consider options such as setting yourself up as a contractor so that firms (potentially multiple firms) can offer you small amounts of work rather than committing to ongoing employment.
Look for other forms of income. See the point above about ‘diversifying your income’.
Look for other industry-related avenues of employment. Consider labouring for a builder, working in a supplier store, or jobs with one of the industry bodies.
Above all, please don’t lose hope. This too shall pass and I’m fairly confident that you will look back on any tough years as a blip on the wonderful life and career you have ahead as an architect. I’m a firm believer that when constraints are present, solutions are more creative and ultimately more valuable.
“You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage. Instead, it's important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.”
- Michelle Obama
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