List of 30 Landscape Architect Interview Questions & Answers
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1.
How do you handle stress and pressure?
How to Answer
Employers are looking for individuals who can perform under stress and tight deadlines. Tell the interviewer that you remain calm, professional, and productive under stress, and when faced with numerous deadlines. You'll also want to provide specific examples of how you've handled stress in a positive way in the past. You might also provide examples of times when pressure actually made you work more productively. Everyone has had some form of stress in their lives, so don't say that you've never gotten stressed.
Sue's Answer
"I thrive under pressure and stress serves as a motivation for me to perform, stay focused, and be more productive. Of course, there are times when too much pressure can lead to stress. However, I'm very skilled at balancing multiple projects and meeting deadlines; this ability prevents me from feeling overly stressed. For example, I once had two large projects due in the same week, and that was a lot of pressure. However, because I created a schedule that detailed how I would break down each project into small assignments, I was able to delegate to others and get the help I needed to meet the deadlines. I managed to complete both projects ahead of time and avoided unnecessary stress."
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2.
Describe the most interesting work-related project you completed.
How to Answer
When a hiring manager asks you about your past projects that were interesting, they are trying to understand the characteristics of your current job. This will inform them of some of your experiences, what you are capable of doing, and the skills you may have learned. Answer by providing an example of the most interesting work-related project you successfully led and completed. Do your best to provide an example related to the position you are applying for, i.e., involving some of the duties you will have to perform in this new role. The best predictor of future performance is past performance in a similar setting. If you haven't led a work-related project, be honest and describe a school-related project instead.
Sue's Answer
"One of the most interesting projects I have had the pleasure of working on was a city planning, redevelopment project. I found it so interesting because of the impact it had on my community. I also enjoyed working with the rest of the committee members. The discussions we had about the pros and cons of each step were inspirational. I think it was such a joy to be able to see a project from start to finish. I really learned a lot about teamwork, communication, and the importance of making and sticking to a plan. This was a very successful project and the client team was highly satisfied with the finished product. We submitted the project for an ASLA award and won the top city planning project award."
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3.
How has your current job changed over the years?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn about your career progression. Additional responsibilities, promotions, and changes in your job title all indicate that you were competent and successful in your role. This question gives you an opportunity to go into more detail about how your job has evolved. If nothing has changed much over the past couple of years in your position, focus on what you have learned. Talk about how the changes in your job have taught you new skills and helped you develop the ones you already have. If this is your first professional job out of college, describe a past internship and things you learned, and how you evolved and worked towards developing your skillset.
Sue's Answer
"After working for about six months in my past job, I was looking for ways to take on additional responsibilities outside of my day-to-day job requirements. I was committed to advancing my career and serving as a resource for the firm. My boss paired me with the training manager in our office to identify employees that needed mentoring and training in preparation for the licensure exam. I served as a mentor and conducted workshops to help entry-level landscape designers prepare for their exams. Within a year, I was promoted to associate and assisted HR on all employee training initiatives moving forward."
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4.
Tell me about a time when you had to be critical of another designer's work and how you handled the situation?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have conflict resolutions skills and that you will remain calm and professional in the face of adversity. Answer this question by providing an example of your conflict resolution skills in a past position, preferably related to landscape architecture. If you don't have a specific work-related example to share, provide an example in any other capacity, from college or in a volunteer position.
Sue's Answer
"In my last position, I was responsible for managing a small team of interns and entry-level designers. One of the young designers did not follow the instructions related to the project we were working on. He seemed dissatisfied with the assignments he was given and was not meeting our internal deadlines. I met with him privately to discuss the situation and to understand why he had not followed the instructions. I then reaffirmed the expectations and duties he had to perform - emphasizing that each of us played an important role and had tasks to perform to ensure the project's success and to meet our client's expectations."
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5.
Who in the profession do you follow and admire for their design ability and why?
How to Answer
This question has two dimensions. It is an open question that seeks to understand what kind of design you admire, and it is also a question testing your knowledge of contemporary design. The best way to answer is to choose a landscape architect that is interesting and one that you know something about. It would also be helpful if you do genuinely like their work as this will allow you to speak passionately about it. Highlight why you admire them - consider their philosophical approach, a unified style they adopt, or innovations and contributions in the industry. A failure to be able to speak passionately and knowledgeably will indicate a lack of interest and awareness of the industry and leading professionals.
Sue's Answer
"Acclaimed landscape architect Andrea Cochran believes brilliant design requires both persistence and a very high standard for excellence. Andrea is a very high achiever with a finely honed aesthetic and sensitive eye; she manages to distill the essence of nature within her projects - whether a small residential garden, public park, or art museum. The resulting spaces convey a rare elegance, simplicity, and poetry. In my opinion, Andrea is one of the masters of modern landscape architecture."
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6.
How would team members/colleagues describe you and your work?
How to Answer
Interviewers often ask this question to learn if you would fit well into their company's group dynamics. They want to gain a general sense of your personality and self-awareness. The way you relate to your coworkers can determine your ability to work as part of a team, fit in with the company culture and develop a professional network. It's important to spend time before the interview reflecting on how your coworkers perceive you and find ways to relate your personality traits to the job.
Sue's Answer
"My team knows me best for being a team-oriented leader. One of my proudest moments was when one of my coworkers offered to write me a letter of recommendation because she admired my empathy and leadership during very challenging projects with tight deadlines. She said that she could tell I had a personal investment in each person's success, took time to mentor others, and celebrated everyone's successes."
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7.
What general trends do you see in our industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have researched their company and the industry. By understanding industry trends, you will better understand the immediate needs of the organization. Perform some online research and look for industry related news articles, read trade magazines, and research online resources. On the company website, they may mention innovative techniques or services, or perhaps they will mention upcoming trends in a company or industry blog. Utilize those pieces of information and refer to them when answering this question.
Sue's Answer
"Top trends in the industry include low-maintenance design solutions using less water consumption and less disruption of the natural environment and wildlife communities. With climate change becoming more evident, new food trends and society's push to get outdoors continue to evolve into the 2020s so too will landscape designs have to meet these trends with fresh ideas and concepts."
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8.
Tell me about your team management skills.
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks such a question, it is highly likely that you frequently will have to work with other people and step up at times to manage others. As such, the interviewer wants to ensure you have an understanding of what it takes to be a good team manager and that you are comfortable working collaboratively. Answer this question by providing an example of your team management skills in another position for a past employer or how you find ways to learn more and are motivated to improve these skills.
Sue's Answer
"I pride myself on my strong team management skills. I truly love working as part of a team and appreciate brainstorming ideas with my co-workers in the design studio. I continually look for ways to improve my managerial skills by taking the initiative to manage smaller tasks when I see the opportunity. I also observe other leaders that I respect, and read articles, and attend virtual workshops about the subject matter. I think it's important to stay open and listen to feedback and implement on projects when appropriate."
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9.
What is the most difficult situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it?
How to Answer
The aim of the interviewer is to learn about the kind of person you are and how you handle different situations. Answer this question by providing an example of a difficult situation you overcame. Preferably, provide an example in a professional capacity; if this isn't possible, provide an example in a volunteer capacity or in a university setting. It's important to pick a real example with a positive outcome. This is a great opportunity to leave a strong impression on the hiring manager and show them you're the best fit for the job.
Sue's Answer
"One of the most difficult parts of the job as a landscape architect can be a limited design budget. We are often expected to produce creative solutions with very little budget because clients don't understand the time and energy needed to develop creative solutions. In my previous job, there was this time when a past client wanted a quick final design and construction drawings completed on a very tight schedule and with a limited budget. I knew it was too risky, so I turned down the work and respectfully explained my reasoning to the client. The client hired another company for the job. A few weeks later, the client called me. They had several delays with their project and realized that the schedule and budget combination was unworkable. They should have allowed for a longer schedule or a larger budget for the project. The client told me that they wanted to work with us on the next phase of the project because they valued our judgment and appreciated the honest feedback we had given."
Sue's Answer
"At my last position, I had to complete a project on very short notice, as revised by the client. Notwithstanding the amount of work involved, I got to work immediately. I used numerous lists to keep track of the daily duties to be performed and delegated some duties to ensure all expectations could be met. Having a diverse team that is talented and collaborative makes a huge difference. The project was completed by the deadline and the client was highly satisfied."
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10.
What excites you the most about the position you applied for?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know specifics about your personality, goals, and qualifications. Tell the interviewer about your passion for this career and what you look forward to if you are hired by the company. Avoid generic answers. Review the job posting before your interview to familiarize yourself with the duties involved, and mention one or more duties that you look the most forward to, and why.
Sue's Answer
"What excites me the most about this position is the opportunity to work with clients internationally. My past experience with a smaller company was extremely exciting and I learned a lot, however, my clients were all local. I am extremely passionate about this career, love to travel, and look forward to acquiring further skills with clients within different cultures."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"What excites me about this position is first the opportunity to grow and hone my skills as a project manager and also to work towards a PMP credential. Second to work on projects that are interested in LEED and SITES certification. Thirdly, I'm very excited about this position because of the growth available right here within the network of my family and friends."
Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above
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11.
How do you define success?
How to Answer
This question is intended to give your potential employer a sense of your work ethic, goals, and overall personality. The qualities that most employers are looking for include determination, motivation, drive, enthusiasm, and a shared collaborative vision. Answer this question by mentioning what constitutes success for you, such as meeting all deadlines and being recognized as a team player by your employer. Do not mention monetary incentives. The objective is to show the interviewer you wish to grow as a professional, not simply be rewarded monetarily.
Sue's Answer
"Success is meeting my daily, weekly, monthly and annual goals and being recognized as a hardworking professional by my employer. If over the course of my career, I can leave work each day satisfied that I've accomplished something, or learned something new or useful, this also counts as success to me. Ultimately, the company's success is my success."
Sue's Answer
"I evaluate success based not only on my work but also on the work of my team. In order for me to be considered successful, the team needs to achieve both our individual and our team goals."
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12.
What are your goals as a landscape architect?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to uncover whether this position In landscape architecture is really in line with your ultimate career goals. Tell the interviewer about your goals as a landscape architect as they relate to the company. Emphasize that you wish to grow within the organization and take on more responsibilities, get licensed, manage teams, or other goals you may have. The interviewer also wants to ensure that you are committed to the profession. Review the company website and social media pages before the interview to familiarize yourself with the company, industry, and services offered.
Sue's Answer
"I wish to grow within the company and acquire further skills related to landscape architecture and planning. In a few years, I would love to have moved up the ladder, having acquired project management skills and managing a team of designers on larger projects. I also noticed on your website that you support continuing education - I have a goal of learning more about sustainability and getting LEEDS certified, and look forward to taking some future seminars or classes in this area."
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13.
Why are you the best landscape architect for us?
How to Answer
Interviewers ask this question to ensure that you fully understand what the position entails and what they are looking for in a job candidate. It's important to only refer to skills, accomplishments, and qualifications that are directly related to the job you're applying for. Ensure to review the job posting before the interview. Center your answer around how your qualifications and skills will help the company rather than why you want the job.
Sue's Answer
"The skills and qualifications I possess are a great match for the requirements for this position. In particular, my communication and leadership skills make me a great candidate for the job. In my previous job, I oversaw a team of five landscape designers and interns and created a new project management tool that increased productivity by 15% over the course of three months. I'm confident that I can bring this type of success to this position."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"I feel like my resume was almost an exact match to your ad."
Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above
This is a FANTASTIC way to stand out! If you can pull out 2-3 key takeaways for the interviewer, this is always a helpful approach.
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14.
Why did you choose landscape architect as a career?
How to Answer
Interview questions such as this one give you the opportunity to show an interviewer just how excited you are about the prospect of the job. Answer this question by mentioning the reasons why you decided to pursue this career, such as your passion for the outdoors and your interest in art and design. Take this opportunity to discuss your background and motivation for selecting this career. Anecdotes are a great tool to use in interviews. You can discuss specific events that led to your pursuit of this field through a story from childhood or more recent years.
Sue's Answer
"If you had asked me in high school if I wanted to become a landscape architect, I would have replied: What is a landscape architect? I had a love for the environment, plants, nature, and outdoor spaces that stemmed from gardening with my mother since I was a child. During a road trip across Michigan, my uncle, an active member of the Nature Conservancy and environmental consultant, enlightened me that Landscape Architecture is a career that blends all of my passions. A few years later, I applied to Michigan State's accredited Landscape Architecture program and my journey as a professional landscape architect began."
Sue's Answer
"I decided to pursue a career in landscape architecture because it combines my interest in art and science to improve not only the environment but our everyday lives. Projects can range in size from very small residential gardens to very expansive neighborhood parks, golf courses, and scenic parkways. No project is ever the same and each offers its own set of challenges and rewards."
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15.
Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
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. Review the job posting before the interview to familiarize yourself with the personality traits and qualifications required for this role. Answer this question by mentioning a few of the traits and qualifications outlined that you also possess, proving you are indeed the best candidate for this role.
Sue's Answer
"I have all of the skills and experience that you're looking for and I'm confident that I would be an asset to your company. I have a strong background in leading successful projects for top companies and have developed great relationships with developers, clients, and senior managers alike. I'm also very passionate about this industry and I'm driven to deliver high-quality work."
Sue's Answer
"I almost feel like the job description was written with me in mind. I have over six years of design and planning experience you're looking for, a track record of successful, award-winning projects, and proven experience in managing complex projects. At the same time, I have developed my communication skills from working directly with partners, which means I am well prepared to work on high-profile, cross-discipline projects. I have the experience to start contributing from day one and I'm truly excited about the prospect of getting started."
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16.
Tell me about an accomplishment you are the most proud of.
How to Answer
Interviewers are interested in finding out what you've achieved and what matters to you. Tell the interviewer about the accomplishment you are the proudest of, preferably in a professional capacity and related to the position you are applying for. Alternatively, provide any accomplishment in another professional capacity, in a volunteer capacity, or in a university setting. Make sure to come prepared with at least one example of your accomplishments, and use the S.T.A.R. method (stands for situation, task, action, result) to describe your experience.
Sue's Answer
"The accomplishment I am the proudest of is managing a very large park planning project on a very tight deadline (... detailed information pertaining to this project, such as the company name, and so on). As a result, I developed strong project and time management skills that will undoubtedly enable me to thrive in this role at your company."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"The accomplishment I am the proudest of is preparing plant references for an international project on a very tight deadline. As a result, I enhanced plant materials and time management skills that will indeed enable me to thrive in this role at your company."
Chad's Feedback for the Answer Above
Good. You have taken the right approach in choosing an accomplishment related to the position you are applying for. However, I would recommend expanding on your answer to included additional details about the project, including the objective(s) that was set out for you, the steps you took to meet the objective(s), and the final result of your action was. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to organize your response and ensure you are providing the interviewer with the right amount of information. We have a guide that you may find helpful - https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/5 Behavioral Based Interview Questions You Should Prepare For/
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17.
Describe a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.
How to Answer
Employers ask this question to learn about your work ethic and commitment level. Many employers are looking for employees who are willing to take on new challenges that result in consistent improvement and benefit the company, instead of doing only exactly what they are told. Provide an example of a situation in a professional capacity, preferably related to a landscape architecture project. Alternatively, provide an example in any other professional or volunteer capacity, or in a university setting. Add that you are confident that your skills will be transferable in this role.
Sue's Answer
"I am particularly proud of the time I was leading the initial conceptual designs for a handful of small neighborhood parks for our local Parks and Recreation department. The overall funding and design budget were on the lower end, so I spent time, on my own, to speak with adjacent neighborhood leaders, school leaders, and parks maintenance workers to learn about the issues that they were facing and get their input. The parks department was so satisfied by the high level of commitment and quality of my work that they hired our company for all of their upcoming park projects."
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18.
What is the most difficult part of being a landscape architect?
How to Answer
Interviewers will often try to figure out which aspects of the job will be the toughest for you to master. It's important to demonstrate you can manage almost anything that comes your way. Redefine the word 'difficult' and use challenging instead and provide an example of a challenging aspect of the job and how you successfully performed these duties in a previous position. Always review the job posting before the interview and provide an example of a difficult task on the job posting, and how you've dealt with this is in the past.
Sue's Answer
"I take every new task or responsibility of my job as a challenge and then try to give my best to come up with the right solution to each situation. I take time to think creatively about options, and typically aim for a win-win solution. As a lead landscape architect and project manager on a past project, I found it difficult to motivate my team during a recession. I think that every manager finds it challenging to motivate team members when times are challenging, but that's probably the strongest test of a leader. I feel this is one area where I excel. When I see the first sign that the quality of the work is slipping, or that teamwork motivation is lagging because of a downturn in the economy, I put a plan into action immediately... (followed by a description of each step in the process, and the results you achieved.)"
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19.
What is your philosophy towards work?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for commitment towards the company and the work to be performed and respect toward colleagues, members of the team management team, and clients. They also want to know what values drive your day-to-day work. Consider answering this question with your personal mission statement. Describe a work philosophy that embeds your values in a way that is related to the values of the company. Prepare for this question by reviewing the company mission statement, projects, and their philosophy towards improving the community, the environment, etc.
Sue's Answer
"Inarguably, a landscape architect has to be creative, insightful, and aesthetically sound. Apart from this, it is important to possess exceptional skills in determining clients' needs and requirements, effectively manage plan development activities, and have the capacity to oversee design plans in an efficient and timely manner."
Sue's Answer
"Working as a landscape architect my philosophy is to always look for ways of improving tasks, design processes, or the final product. Nothing should be considered perfect. We can always strive for ways to improve in our work - be it by a small task only. I take my work seriously and am committed to performing to the best of my ability. The goal is to exceed the position expectations and become an asset to the firm."
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20.
Tell me about a time when you created a design, and the client was not pleased with it. How did you change the design and what was the final outcome?
How to Answer
Provide an example of such a situation by emphasizing your willingness to work tirelessly until the client is highly satisfied with the finished product. The interviewer wants to ensure you are client-oriented and committed to clients' satisfaction.
Sue's Answer
"While working at (X company) as a/an (X position title), I created (X design), however, the client was dissatisfied with it because (X reasons why he/she was dissatisfied, such as miscommunication). I met with the client to determine what his/her expectations were and committed to providing a new design in a timely fashion. The client wanted (X client expectations, so I modified my old design by (X alterations made) and resubmitted my design to the client. I work long hours to complete the new design as soon as possible. In the end, the client was highly satisfied."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"I always try to give the clients options to optimize the result; this usually ends up being 2-3 variations. I think this helps the client get what they genuinely envision."
Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above
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21.
What are your favorite type of projects to work on?
How to Answer
Answer this question by providing examples included on the posting or company website/social media pages, including your own experience in similar roles, if you have any. Review the job posting and company website and social media pages before the interview to familiarize yourself with the projects you will be working on as a landscape architect, or projects the company has, or will soon be working on.
Sue's Answer
"My favorite projects to work on are those that require unique thinking and problem-solving skills to execute. I enjoy complex, large-scale urban design projects that incorporate complex, inter-departmental processes. This requires me to constantly question what I thought I knew as more data becomes available. I have extensive experience completing such projects. For instance, in my last position as (X position title) for (X company), I completed a similar large-scale, transportation project (provide additional detailed information regarding these projects). I thoroughly enjoyed working on such projects because (X reasons why these were your favorite projects, such as enjoying being the leading managing a team, and so on)."
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22.
Outside of a professional setting, what has been your favorite landscape design project you have worked on or witnessed, and what made it great?
How to Answer
Provide an example of your favorite landscape design project in a volunteer capacity or university setting. Mention the reasons why you believed this was a great project and how it has influenced your future work. Provide details of the project and describe your influences and what you learned from the process.
Sue's Answer
"My favorite landscape design project I have worked on was the redesign of the university's botanical gardens. It was such a great project because it involved so many different groups, including volunteer students, design professors, maintenance crews, and historians. I'm grateful that I was in school at the time and had this opportunity to work on a project in my own backyard and see it evolve in such a short time. Everyone contributed to all phases of the project, from the design to installation and maintenance of the garden, and I feel this process was truly what collaboration is really all about. We respected each other and all learned a great deal from each other."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"I'm a big fan of Pulaski park in North Hampton, Ma. I thought Stimson associates did a fantastic job of looking at the city and giving them a space ultra-useful. Also, I enjoyed recreating the front yard of my house. To work with visual alignments is always fun."
Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above
You give two great examples here - nice work! If you have a visual portfolio to bring with you, you could always include pics of the front yard you created.
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23.
What would be a dream project for you?
How to Answer
When interviewing for a job, hiring managers assess what you want from a position and how well you may fit in at a company. Answer this question by mentioning a past project completed by the company to demonstrate you wish to go in the same direction. Review the job posting, company website, and social media pages before the interview to familiarize yourself with the work involved and services offered by the company. When you show an overlap between their projects, the requirements of the job you want, and the qualities and skills you already possess, you are demonstrating why you would be a great fit for the position. Mention the reasons this project seems so exciting to you and talk about how your experiences, background align with this type of work, if possible.
Sue's Answer
"A dream project for me would be the High Line Project in NYC. I read that your company contributed to early studies, historic research, and community design workshops. I had a chance to visit the High Line last fall and was inspired by the collaborative effort to reimagine the role public spaces have in creating connected, healthy neighborhoods and cities. I have some experience working on redevelopment projects in urban areas and would love to continue working in this space. Contributing to this type of project where the design team collaborates with the city, and residents and users are active participants in the process would be a dream project for me."
1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Interview Answer
"A dream project is one that is similar to Parc Andre Citroen in Paris with its many visual and sensory elements. It would be such a creative venture."
Rachelle's Feedback for the Answer Above
This sounds very exciting and creative! Good answer.
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24.
How would you go about establishing your credibility quickly with the team?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to gauge how you would fit within the company. Moreover, the question also encourages you to determine what strategies you would employ to become a trusted worker. The way you respond to the question can showcase your professionalism, skills, experience, and adaptability.
Sue's Answer
"I've always been told that trust is not given but earned. One of the best ways, at least from my personal experience, to gain credibility at a firm is to earn it. Just because I have a solid resume, doesn't mean I am entitled to be viewed as a credible individual. I need to earn it - that includes employing empathy, encouragement, and transparency to establish solid foundations with my new colleagues."
Sue's Answer
"When I graduated from university and earned my master's degree, I thought as soon as I entered the labor market that I would be treated as an authoritative source for different things. But I was fairly proven wrong. Since then, I've been humbled, and I don't take my employment opportunities for granted. I know I have to earn others' trust. Over the years, I've progressed as both a professional and an individual, ensuring that everyone plays a valuable role in a workplace setting. This is how you gain credibility; enjoying camaraderie with your colleagues."
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25.
Describe your biggest academic achievement.
How to Answer
Interview questions that require you to brag about yourself aren't easy, but you need to be ready to sound confident and show off what you've done. When employers ask this question, they want you to sound passionate and proud. Think about your most impactful accomplishments in college that you'd be genuinely excited to talk about- this will ensure you have the right level of energy and enthusiasm when giving your answer. You want to be specific when telling your story - it's always more impressive to share specific facts and details.
Sue's Answer
"My greatest achievement was completing my bachelor's degree in 4 years with a 3.9 GPA. I had no financial support from my family and had to work a full-time job while pursuing my Landscape Architecture degree. This taught me to prioritize my time, build good habits and stay focused on my goals. I'm proud of this accomplishment and I feel that what I learned during my college experience can be applied in my future career as a landscape architect and project manager."
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26.
Describe your daily routine as a landscape architect?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what activities you will be performing daily and what order you will use to perform them. Give them a very organized schedule of your typical daily activities as a landscape architect from the first activity after arrival at the office till the last one. Demonstrate that you are able to manage several different tasks throughout the day and that you can adapt and address issues as they arise.
Sue's Answer
"The first activity, after arriving at my office, would be to review any urgent emails and requests from consultants and internal team members. Next, I typically review any new proposed design of a new project. I check in with fellow teammates to see what they are working on and we decide on priorities for the day. I take time to sketch out any changes and make redlines to construction drawings on any pending projects that need to be attended to that day. I typically make notes and document any changes in the findings of projects I have been working on. I would then schedule a meeting with the client to make briefings on revisions to the project and estimate the cost. Throughout the day, I make calls on the ongoing projects to follow up on how our consultants are doing and if they need my attention on any issues. I would then get back to my typical work of drawing and designing upcoming projects. This would be a very busy day at work."
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27.
How do you stay motivated in your work?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what keeps your morale high when you are working. Tell them what motivates you to continue working as a landscape architect. Consider talking about success and achievements as your daily motivators in your career and what you can offer the team.
Sue's Answer
"Since I started working as a landscape architect, I must say that the beautiful public open spaces that I have helped design are my top motivators. When I drive around the city, I see several projects that have come out of the work of my hands. Observing children playing in beautiful parks that I helped design is what I consider a success. Success is always my daily motivation."
Sue's Answer
"I absolutely love working as a part of a team. I enjoy discussing ways to move forward on projects with my fellow teammates, and I love to respectfully debate with others to ensure we are moving in the right direction. On top of that, I take pride in the work that I do, and it is humbling whenever I see an actual built project being enjoyed in the real world that I was a part of."
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28.
What do you see yourself doing within the first 30 days of this job?
How to Answer
Hiring managers often ask this question to learn more about how you will adjust to this job if hired. Employers place the highest value on candidates who will be assertive about learning the job, getting to know the team, and becoming productive as soon as possible. Before you respond, consider what the employer is looking for. An appropriate answer to this question will vary based on your position and experience level: for a manager-level position, an answer should likely include some sort of plan; an entry-level interviewee can mention the need to gain experience and learn from colleagues.
Sue's Answer
"During my first 30 days, I would like to learn as much as I can from my supervisors and coworkers. Through observation, asking questions when needed, and performing my duties hands-on, I would like to develop a thorough understanding of the workplace and my particular job duties, where I can contribute, and then set longer-term goals for myself."
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29.
Describe your ideal boss/supervisor.
How to Answer
Employers like to ask interview questions about what management style you prefer and what type of boss or manager you prefer to work with. They want to make sure that you'll fit into their organization. Check out the company's website, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube before the interview to try to get clues about their general management style. Show that you can adapt to their management style and avoid using words like 'always' and 'never' when describing your ideal boss, supervisor, or manager.
Sue's Answer
"My ideal boss would be knowledgeable, patient and reliable- someone who still considers themselves a part of the team. Though I have separate duties as a project manager, I always try to jump in and help out on projects when I can. I think it improves the manager-employee dynamic when workers know that you truly care about them and are willing to step in and lend a hand."
Sue's Answer
"A positive attitude and the ability to inspire others are things I look for in a boss. At my first internship, my boss had a great sense of humor and always encouraged us to smile. He made sure we stayed on task, of course, but he was also uplifting, supportive, and made sure we had fun doing our jobs. That kind of leadership made all of us excited to show up and do our best every day."
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30.
If you could offer suggestions on how to improve our company, what would you say?
How to Answer
Most companies make hires because they believe that person can make a positive difference at the company. Examine the trends of the company and also where there may be some weaknesses (review news articles, blogs). Once you have researched the company, think creatively on how you could improve upon any weakness for them. Answer this question with a thoughtful, constructive, and positive response. A good answer to this question shows that you can bring your own ideas to the table and offer something to the firm.
Sue's Answer
"I understand that this company has struggled recently with high turnover. My previous work experience includes innovation in many areas, including strategies for creating a positive work culture and more effective teamwork. At a previous company, I devised strategies for improving teamwork and communication among members of team projects. I can bring to your organization not only my ideas from my previous job but my general passion for innovation in the workplace. My interests in this area may help your company with retention. When employees feel valued and an integral part of a team, they are more likely to stay with a company longer."