30 Architectural Drafter Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Architectural Drafter interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. What types of challenges and problems did you face at your last position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When interviewers ask you this interview question, they want to know about the struggles you've faced in your previous jobs and how you overcame them. They also want to assess your problem-solving skills, which will give them an idea of how you'd face similar challenges in the role you're interviewing for. Employers want to hire individuals who can turn challenges into opportunities.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Identify challenges you've faced in your previous positions and consider how you were able to solve or overcome them. Tailor your answer to the job description by taking time to review the job posting or job description before the interview. You want to be able to discuss a real professional challenge or problem, not an arbitrary or annoying occurrence. You also want to be able to define how you met the challenge successfully.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"Drafters need time to produce high-quality drawings, but sometimes we just have to get drawings done quickly. We've all been there; it's the nature of the industry. But quality is always sacrificed when speed is the priority. Most of the time, doing a job quickly and correctly comes down to clear communication with the team, project manager, and client. I realized that most of the scheduling issues arose because of inadequate communication. I also realized early on that working overtime is sometimes a necessity, and moving jobs around (if I have multiple projects underway) can help me meet quick deadlines."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
2. How would your past colleagues describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers often ask how your coworkers would describe you in order to learn if you would fit well into their company's group dynamics and structure. The way you relate to your coworkers can determine your ability to work as part of a team and fit in with the company culture.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
It's important to spend time reflecting on how your coworkers perceive you. Find ways to relate your personality traits to the specific job. Provide a thorough and thoughtful answer that exhibits your strong interpersonal skills and perceptiveness. Share how those traits would benefit this business.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"My coworkers would describe me as an organized, thoughtful person who works well under pressure. I enjoy creating a well-organized environment and anticipating the needs of my coworkers and lead designers to make a project run as smoothly as possible."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Do you prefer to work alone or on a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question because some companies require staff members to work in teams on a daily basis, while others require employees to work on their own. Interviewers genuinely want to know what kind of work environment suits you best.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
If you thrive in group settings, you probably won't do well in a job that requires you to work alone behind closed doors or in a job that requires you to work remotely. Think about your past experiences and your ideal work environment/situation. If you have not had much work experience, think about your projects and assignments in school. Consider which type of work suited you best - working independently or on team projects.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my past role, I spent equal time between collaborating with my team in the office and completing tasks independently when working from home. Typically, we would meet at the start of a new project to brainstorm and delegate specific tasks according to our unique skills and talents. This allowed my team the chance to work together and gave us two days during the week to focus on our own and come back together later to check in with our team leaders."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What are the qualities of a successful team or project leader?
How to Answer
This question allows you to define good leadership traits in your own words. Showcase skills and qualities such as patience, listening, mentoring, empathy, positivity, reliability, and team building. Think of your past supervisors and the characteristics and traits that you admired in them, and make a list before the interview.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When an interviewer asks this question, they want to know what traits and leadership qualities you value. There is no single correct answer to this question, but you need to be cognizant of what your answer reveals to the interviewer about you and your past experiences with leaders.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe that project leaders must be able to quickly and easily communicate their visions and articulate a project's goal in a way that everyone can understand. Good leaders must also have the ability to express their expectations directly and give regular, constructive feedback to the team they are managing to guide the team through the project process to completion."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
5. How do you manage your work-life balance?
How to Answer
Answering this question requires you to know a bit about this particular company and job. If you aren't sure what the employer is looking for, the safest way to answer is to emphasize your organizational skills while also saying that, when necessary, you will take work home with you or work overtime when needed. Try not to be negative about bringing work home, since that may be common at this company. However, you respond, be honest.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to learn more about how you manage your time. Your ability to manage your time impacts your productivity and reflects how well you manage your resources. This question also gives the interviewer insight into your priorities and tells them if you find time for other interests and avoid burning out at work.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I've always been very organized and skilled at budgeting my time. When I begin a project, I create a spreadsheet and timeline for my tasks. Typically, this allows me to complete the assignments promptly without having to work overtime. However, I understand that sometimes timelines change or issues come up, and I'm always willing to stay late or take work home with me when that happens."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
6. What did you dislike about your old job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When asking about your feelings toward a previous job, a hiring manager isn't interested in a list of your likes or dislikes. Rather, they will judge your character by listening to the tone and attitude with which you respond to this tricky question.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Never use negative terminology. Avoid saying things like, 'I did not like my manager,' 'I did not like the environment,' or 'I did not like the team.' Try to focus on the positive and say something about making a change for proper growth or different market opportunities.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"There is nothing I disliked about my previous job. It was an excellent first position out of college, and I learned a tremendous amount from experienced supervisors and construction managers. The company was a design-build firm, and the project work was mostly focused on residential projects and renovations. I'm now interested in expanding into more complex commercial and industrial projects."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Why do you want to work for this organization?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know why you are interested in working for them as a draftsman. The company wants to hire someone who aligns with the company's mission and wants to make a positive impact on the organization and its clients or customers.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
You will have the chance to demonstrate that you've done your research on the company, so mention all the positive things you have discovered about the organization, like an enjoyable work environment and stability of employment, etc. It would be best to describe how you look forward to learning and growing with the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was motivated to apply for this role because I have the passion and background to be successful in this position. I would like to use the strong skill set that I developed in my training and the experience I have from my previous roles to contribute to your performance in designing award-winning buildings. I understand that you offer continuous learning opportunities, and I want to learn and improve my skills from your team. Despite having strong skills in drafting, I must say that I am not quite there yet. I need to sharpen my skills and keep improving, and I see a lot of opportunity with your company."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
8. As an architectural drafter, what do you believe is your best asset?
How to Answer
In most job interviews, candidates will be asked to describe their assets, strengths, and/or weaknesses. Your assets should reflect the requirements of the role. Be sure to highlight the skills that are listed in the job description.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Your strengths should be skills that can be supported through your professional experiences. You can also explain how you will gain or improve any critical skills that you may lack.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel my strongest asset is my ability to create very accurate technical drawings for commercial and industrial construction projects. On past projects, I have been responsible for gathering all of the necessary information to create accurate, technical drawings, including surveys, topography, GIS mapping, and other drawings needed to complete the final drawings. I also believe I can bring my attention to detail to your larger, more complex projects. I'm known for catching things that others miss and have the demonstrated ability to effectively coordinate and communicate with large drafting teams, consultants, and other technicians."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
9. How would you describe your communication style?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Successful communication with coworkers, managers, and clients is one of the most essential qualities a prospective employee can possess. Your communication skills are being evaluated during the interview. In addition to listening to how you answer their questions, your interviewer is watching your body language and facial expressions. Hiring managers want to see your whole communicative style.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
There is no right way to answer this question, but you should express your understanding of how your communication style successfully contributes to the workplace. Confidently tell the interviewer what you're good at and what you need to work on.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would describe myself as a great listener. Life taught me that listening is more important than talking in both personal and professional relationships. One has to listen to understand their colleagues, customers, and business partners. When we understand them and their needs, we can deliver excellent communication, be it a negotiation, a sales pitch, an explanation of a problem."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
10. What is your philosophy towards work?
How to Answer
Begin by researching the company's mission statement, goals, market niche, risks, and competition. Learning this information can help you emphasize aspects of your own beliefs that resonate with the company in your answer.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have any networking connections to the company, schedule a call to help you learn more about the company culture, vision, and mission. Prepare an honest answer about your work philosophy that aligns with your strengths and the company's goals.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"Work is a very important part of my life. I enjoy being part of something bigger and working on things that can change this world. While I am still young and do not have my own family yet, this feeling helps me see purpose in my life. To sum it up, work means a lot to me, and if I get this excellent job with you, you can be sure I will do my best work day in and day out."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
11. If I called your current boss right now and asked him or her what area you could improve upon, what would he or she say?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know how other people view you as a draftsman and employee. They want to hear that you are self-aware and recognize that you still have areas to improve upon. This question also allows them to better understand your outlook as an employee and your methods for communicating about sensitive topics.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Don't focus too much on your negative performances or get lost in anecdotes; this is more about general tasks, characteristics, or traits. It's important to be honest, but keep your language direct and informative and avoid talking negatively about yourself.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I must say that my past supervisors would describe me as a creative, energetic professional who loves to draw and learn new technologies. One area that I'm improving is my skills in computer-aided 3-D drafting programs, and I recently enrolled in a class to further develop those skills."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I think my boss would probably say that I take on a bit more than I should and say yes to everything, and it tires me out. We've strategized this together, and I have developed a stronger sense of when to delegate over time, but I still do have ups and downs in my productivity because of occasional over-scheduling."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
12. Tell me what would you like to be doing in your first year as a draftsman with our company?
How to Answer
Employers place the highest value on candidates who will be assertive about learning the job, blend in with the team, and become productive as soon as possible. Show your desire to be regarded as a true professional and team player. Think about what the employer is looking for. Consider whether they want someone to come on board to immediately work on transforming the company, department, or role or if they are looking for someone to become a reliable team player.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
The Goal
Your goals for the first year must include more than just productivity; they should include gaining acceptance, respect, and credibility.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"From my research, and from what you've told me about the growth opportunities at your company, it seems that 3D technology and Revit training is where the heavy emphasis is going to be. I'm interested in participating in several different projects to get to know the various team players and learn how I can best contribute to the success of the company. With my advanced knowledge in Revit and my background in training others in drawing technologies, it seems this is an area where I could contribute to the company's goals and help build a team of expert draftsmen."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Behavioral
13. What was your greatest accomplishment as an architectural drafter?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants you to share the most significant goal you have achieved in your career. This question lets your interviewer see your skill level and how you feel about your accomplishments. Whether you are excited about your past work or feel that you are capable of more, you don't want the interviewer to get the sense that you feel past projects were beneath you.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Speak with confidence about the project, but don't be afraid to explain what you learned and how much you are looking forward to applying your knowledge and experience to bigger challenges. If you are entry-level, then discuss your accomplishments from college or an internship.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"My team achieved our goal of [goal your team was working toward]. My part of the project was [your duties]. While this project wasn't revolutionary, I'm proud of it because I learned [skill or concept you learned that relates to the job]. Because of this experience, the next time I run into this challenge, I'll be able to use my newfound abilities with [skill or concept]."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Discovery
14. Why did you choose to become an architectural drafter?
How to Answer
Your response will tell your potential employer a lot about your passion and motivation. It can also help them to determine whether you will fit in with the company culture. Discuss what inspired you early in your career. You may have been inspired by a favorite artist or a family member in the field, or you may have become an architectural drafter because you wanted to create lasting works of art, or you enjoy creating technical drawings.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers ask this question to determine your passions and what drives you forward in your career. It also helps the interviewer determine whether or not you will be a good fit for their company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have always been interested in beautiful buildings and infrastructures like bridges and dams. I took several drawing classes as electives during high school and became very interested in developing detailed drawings and using technology as a tool for drawings, so I looked into careers that would allow me to do something I love. Being part of the creative process to build something from the ground up brings me a lot of joy and satisfaction."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Discovery
15. Tell me about your experience visiting architectural sites to inform a project you're working on.
What You Need to Know
The hiring manager wants to learn more about your experience and practical knowledge. Architectural drafters may specialize in different design areas, such as building or infrastructure type and materials used for construction. Drafters need to visit the actual site for a better appreciation of the project and the surrounding buildings, roads, and environment. They may also use this time to coordinate with engineers and architects, collect pertinent measurements, and calculate dimensions.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Discuss your process when working on complicated projects and your experience interacting with architects, engineers, and contractors. This demonstrates your understanding of the greater context of the work you're involved in. Discuss a specific example of a time you conducted a site visit or interacted directly with designers and contractors and how this helped you do your job. If you don't have an example, share an example of your appreciation for buildings, bridges, and other structures and how the built form inspires your work.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"No amount of research in the office can beat being on-site and being physically and psychologically immersed within the environment. I feel this is important because it allows me to feel connected to the site, understand its context, and assist in creating solutions that are sensitive and responsive to the particular needs and characteristics of a place."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Discovery
16. Why are you the best architectural drafter for us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer's job is to hire the best person for the position. Most of the candidates that make it to the interview stage are qualified for the job. So merely having the qualifications won't be enough to separate you from the crowd. Once you've been invited to the interview, it will come down to who can sell themselves better.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Before the interview, take time to review the job description and write down all of the skills you have that match the skills asked for in the job description. Mention any industry experience, technical skills, and accomplishments or awards that will set you apart from others.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Honestly, I feel like the job description was written with me in mind. I have the four years of drafting and AutoCAD experience that you're looking for, a track record of contributing to successful projects, and proven expertise in construction document process experience. At the same time, I have developed my communication skills by working directly with senior managers, which means I am well prepared to work on high-profile cross-department projects. I have the experience to start contributing from day one, and I am truly excited about the prospect of being part of your organization."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I feel I'm the best person for the job. I know other candidates could fill this position, but my passion for excellence sets me apart from the pack. I am committed to always producing the best results."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Discovery
17. Describe your current role and responsibilities on the most recent projects you worked on.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers ask this question to clarify and expand upon the information in your resume. There's only so much a resume can communicate, and your potential future boss will want more details and context to determine if you're the best person for the job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Comparing your past responsibilities with those you would be taking on in this new role tells the interviewer if you are looking to move up in your career or to step away from current responsibilities. Be honest, and customize your response for this specific position. Review the job description and make a list of your past roles, responsibilities, and specific tasks from past jobs or internships.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an architectural drafter for a large design firm, I have been responsible for drawing structural features and details for commercial buildings and other large construction projects. I frequently worked simultaneously on multiple, long-term design projects for commercial buildings with seven- and eight-figure budgets. I was in constant contact with the internal team of architects and coordinated ongoing communication with clients to ensure that everyone was on the same page in terms of timeline and expectations. In my previous role for a small design firm, I worked very closely with the creative team. I'm very familiar with the pressures that come with big-budget projects and the nuances of interacting with both clients and designers. I'd be excited to put that experience to good use working with your clients."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Education
18. How did your education prepare you for this job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers do not ask this question to find out about your grades or the courses you took in college. Instead, they are trying to find out whether or not you have made connections between your studies and the professional world.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
If you prepare ahead of time, you will come across as confident, motivated, and educated when this question is asked. If you have previous work experience, focus on how your coursework and training have made you successful so far. Review the job description and describe your education and the courses you took with the specific skills of the role related to the position.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"My college education has exceptionally prepared me for a smooth transition from school to work by providing me with the skills necessary to succeed. I had instructors who were also practitioners and professional consultants, and they prepared us well for real-life situations and future jobs. I also took the most challenging courses in college, which taught me exceptional critical-thinking skills. I have learned how to work with a team to solve complex problems. I was also taught that high-quality results take hard work, a positive attitude, and collaboration with others. Many of my internships also allowed me to experience situations first hand and offered me on-site observational opportunities, which further enhanced my learning experience."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Operational
19. How do you prioritize your tasks?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your experience, organizational skills, and attention to detail. They want to evaluate your time management skills and assess your ability to distinguish between urgent and important tasks.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
By implementing prioritization strategies, you can drastically change your workday to make the most of your time in the office and at home. Discuss some strategies you use when deadlines are tight and you're working on multiple projects. Explain how you prioritize based on importance and urgency and shift between priorities when needed. Try to connect your answer to the job requirements. Highlight your time management skills, organizational skills, and your ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I try to identify which tasks are more urgent and require immediate attention and which tasks can be held off a little longer. If there is a particular piece of work that needs to be delivered immediately, I like to set aside some uninterrupted time to focus on completing that task. I also have learned to seek help when needed and delegate tasks to someone else on the team when I know I have too much on my plate."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Operational
20. How would you deliver bad news to your team members?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer might ask this question to make sure that you are capable of delivering bad news without affecting efficiency. Good news and bad news are part of any job, and it shows leadership qualities to be able to communicate both types of news to co-workers. Team leaders, supervisors, and managers are the most likely employees to deliver unwelcome news to their colleagues.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you understand that bad news is a part of the job process. To deliver bad news, it is best to gather your whole team and explain what has happened. Assure the interviewer that you can be empathetic when explaining why this situation happened and what steps you are taking to curb the effects of this bad news. You also need to be strong while taking feedback.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"When I've had to deliver bad news to my colleagues, I've found it comes across best when I'm thoughtful and caring but don't sugarcoat the news. That makes it more difficult for people to digest. Instead, I confidently convey the information and leave no room for interpretation. Once I deliver the news and explain the decision-making process, I typically ask the group for their thoughts, questions, or feedback. I think it's important for people to process the information and then help the team move forward."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Scenario
21. What would you do if you were asked to perform a task and weren't sure how to complete it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to see if you are resourceful and take initiative to find help, ask questions, and find resources when needed. You won't always be able to get formal company training, and often, your supervisor won't be able to guide you through the task step-by-step. It will be up to you to figure it out and handle the situation in a solution-based way.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Regardless of whether you know how to do something or not, it's part of your job to make sure it gets done. Your primary objective when answering situational interview questions should be to discuss a related experience and how you dealt with it in your previous job roles.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"Communication is key, so I typically talk with my supervisor and indicate that I don't understand the task. I ask questions until I have a better understanding of what is needed. If I don't have the ability or skills to complete the task myself, I speak with my supervisor to let him know. I also look for opportunities to work with someone who can make up for my lack of knowledge and possibly teach me a new skill."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Situational
22. Describe a situation where you weren't satisfied with your job. What could have made it better?
What to Avoid
Avoid saying anything that focuses on the politics, culture, or financial status of your previous employers. No matter how true it might be, comments like these will come across as too negative. Think of something you disliked in your last job but that you know for sure won't be part of this new role.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
This question requires some self-reflection and can be tricky to answer. Explain the work that you did, why you weren't satisfied, what you learned about the industry or yourself, and how you improved or made changes.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"There was nothing about my last job that I was unsatisfied with, but there were some things I liked less than others. My previous role involved traveling at least twice a month. While I do love to travel, twice a month became a little exhausting. I didn't like spending so much time out of the office. I'm happy to see that this role involves a lot less travel."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Situational
23. Why are you leaving your current role?
How to Answer
The most effective and acceptable reasons for leaving your current job should be positive, not negative, and relate to moving forward in your career by taking on more responsibility or pursuing a different career path. Describe why you feel it's time for something new and what you've learned in your current and past roles.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers want to know why you're leaving your current position so they can learn more about what's important to you in a job and how you handle undesirable situations. By exploring the reasons behind a job move, a hiring manager can learn more about your career goals and whether you're parting from your current employer on good terms.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I've learned a lot from my current role, but now I'm looking for a new challenge, to broaden my horizons, and to gain a new skillset. I see the potential for all of that in this job."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Situational
24. Tell me what design you had the most difficult time with. What made it difficult?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know how you've handled challenging and stressful situations and how strong your critical thinking skills are. Interview questions like this allow you to show off your personality and allow you to be a real human being.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Everyone has had to deal with difficult situations at work. When you talk about difficult situations in an interview, you show a vulnerable, human side of yourself. Keep your example positive and end with how you overcame the difficult situation and what you learned from the experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my previous job at an architectural firm, I had the opportunity to work on several challenging projects. One time, when I'd just started working at the company, I was asked to work with a small team on a presentation for a new client. We received the project because of our reputation and ability to take on the project on short notice. It was a great opportunity for us to show what we were capable of doing in a short amount of time. Two weeks before the presentation was due, the client requested us to change the entire plan. After several hours of brainstorming with the team, we concluded that some parts of the project were developed based on assumptions without clearly asking the client for approval before moving on. I overcame this challenge by determining the client's goals, analyzing their feedback, and setting up small milestones to track progress in the two weeks we had left. Our drafting team kept in touch with the client throughout the redevelopment process of the presentation and then finished and submitted it one day before the deadline. Ultimately, the client was very happy with our work and the company is still working with them."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Situational
25. Have you ever had difficulty with a supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question allows the interviewer a deeper understanding of how you are inclined to handle a difficult situation. The interviewer may also be trying to determine if you are a team player, if you can remain objective in difficult situations, if you try to maintain positive working relationships, or if you can adapt to different management styles.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
This is an opportunity to discuss the personal qualities and problem-solving skills that could make you a strong candidate for the position. Reassure the interviewer that, although conflicts between you and your supervisors may arise, you can handle them maturely. You don't want to come across as bitter, negative, or critical during the interview. You should always answer positively. A thoughtful, honest answer to this question can give an interviewer great insights into the reasons you would make a valuable employee.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"When I started working for my last supervisor, he gave me less feedback than I was used to in past positions, which made it hard for me to meet his expectations. We had a few disagreements because each of us misunderstood what the other one wanted. I asked to meet with him to discuss better ways to communicate and asked for more specific, honest input. Once we were on the same page, we worked together successfully for two additional years. Now, when I begin working with a new manager, I take time to discuss our styles and expectations."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Situational
26. Give me a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers ask this question to learn about your work ethic and commitment level. They are trying to determine how your education has prepared you for the specific role and responsibilities or how your educational experiences will help you fit in with your coworkers, the company's culture, and work environment.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
It's essential to prepare your answer ahead of time to make sure you leave a good impression on potential employers. Use the STAR response technique to outline the situation, your response, and the results. Think about a project you completed with a clear goal and discuss WHY you chose to go above and beyond. Explain HOW you went above and beyond what was required, and then explain the OUTCOME. If you're an entry-level candidate, your past experiences might not line up directly with the job you're trying to land, but you can still highlight transferable skills you've gained from your education, extracurriculars, and any jobs or internships you've held.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I've always loved to jump right in and learn how to do new things, and I'm good at getting up to speed quickly. In my first job out of school, I was brought in during a very intense deadline for an important client. During my second week of work, I put in overtime to show the team that I was serious and highly motivated to help meet the deadlines."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Technical
27. How do you stay up to date on technical knowledge and industry trends?
What You Need to Know
In today's competitive world, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. Your knowledge and skills can make a difference in landing the job you want or struggling to prove your value. Having knowledge and skills above and beyond the basics of your field can give you a professional advantage. Interviewers are likely to expect you to know about trending topics in your profession or industry.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Before the interview, consider all CAD resources, virtual events, and professional development courses that have helped you expand your professional skillset and that you can offer the company. When you're asked about trends, highlight a few relevant topics that you think are most important in the industry- consider what colleagues are currently talking about and the direction the profession is going. Mention a specific story, event, or attention-grabbing social media thread.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy interacting with fellow draftsmen regularly. We started with a small group that met for coffee regularly and recently organized an online Meetup group. I invited several local and national draftsmen of all experience levels to join the group. We discuss different topics each month and share experiences and challenges that we're facing in the workplace. It's a great way to learn about new methods and technologies from other professionals."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Technical
28. Tell me about the benefits of using AutoCAD.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask technical questions to learn about your skill levels and how you process information. The interviewer will assess your technical knowledge, skills, and abilities as they relate to the specific job you are interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
Prepare to discuss your approach to using AutoCAD and your thoughts on using the program as a drafting tool. Take time to review the job description and research other tools and technologies utilized by the company on various projects. Consider software programs, tools, and other technologies that you have been trained in or have experience with and how your experience may benefit the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"AutoCAD has replaced the traditional methods of drafting and designing, which was made by a pencil, drafting boards, and triangles. This saves time and allows for much more flexibility because several team members can view and work on the same set of drawings simultaneously. The benefits of using AutoCAD and other drawing programs, like Revit and SolidWorks, are immense. The tedious and time-consuming work of drafting can be done much more accurately, and draftsman can design and make revisions to a product in a very short amount of time."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Technical
29. How do you think further technological advances will impact your job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to see if you are aware of technological advancements in your field. It also gives them insight into how you perceive the role over the long term. Because technology changes constantly, employers will increasingly look for a combination of specific technical skills and an aptitude for learning when hiring new employees.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
How to Answer
In preparation for the interview, take some time to research the future of architecture and engineering industries, and how technological advancements will alter the way you work in the future. Prepare for the interview by reading up on the future of drafting technology and consider where you should increase your knowledge to help this company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"Technology will likely change the way we complete work processes, and it will automate some tasks. Ongoing technology innovations will certainly create plenty of new opportunities. As technology takes over certain tasks and frees up time for employees to focus on high-value tasks, job descriptions and roles are likely to change. In other words, technology will reshape traditional management roles, and these roles will increasingly rely on human skills and values."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Technical
30. What online resources do you use to help you with your job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to learn how engaged you are in the broader technological and architectural drafting community. This helps the interviewer gauge your enthusiasm for the profession and open a conversation about professional development.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
What You Need to Know
Most draftsmen turn to industry websites or external focus groups when they need help with something. Serious professionals will have a selection of websites, online communities, social media feeds, and other resources specific to their industry and level of responsibility.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022
Answer Example
"Whenever I get stuck or don't know how to perform certain drafting tasks, I search for YouTube tutorials, online support groups, and tech blogs. There are so many insightful video tutorials and helpful user group forums out there that it's near impossible to be stuck for too long."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on January 4th, 2022