20 Gensler Interview Questions and Answers

As a leading design firm, Gensler is always looking for talented and creative individuals to join their team. If you’re interested in working for Gensler, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some specific interview questions about your experience and skills.

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common Gensler interview questions, so you can go into your interview with confidence.

Gensler Interview Process

The interview process at Gensler can vary in length depending on the position you are applying for, but generally speaking, it is a fairly lengthy process. There are usually multiple rounds of interviews, including both individual and group interviews. The difficulty of the interviews also varies depending on the position, but they are generally pretty challenging. Overall, the interview process at Gensler is very competitive and intense, but it is also a great way to get your foot in the door at a top architecture firm.

1. How would you describe your design style?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have a unique design style and can apply it to the project at hand. Your answer should include examples of how you’ve applied your design style in previous projects.

Example: “I would describe my design style as modern with a focus on functionality. I believe that every space has its own personality, so I like to create designs that are tailored to each client’s needs. For example, when working with a client who wanted a more traditional look for their office space, I used warm colors and materials to give the space a classic feel. When working with another client who was looking for something more contemporary, I incorporated clean lines and bright colors to achieve a sleek, modern look.”

2. What are the most important factors when designing a space for a client?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks. In your answer, explain how you would approach a project that requires balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.

Example: “I believe it’s important to understand the client’s goals for their space before designing anything else. For example, if they’re looking for an open floor plan, I’ll need to make sure there are enough windows in the room to provide adequate natural light. If the client is also concerned about privacy, then I might have to adjust my design accordingly.

Another factor I consider when starting a new project is budget. While I always want to create spaces that exceed expectations, I know that sometimes we can’t afford certain features. To ensure that I’m creating a space that meets all of the client’s needs while staying within their budget, I like to meet with them early on in the process to discuss their vision and get feedback.”

3. Can you give me an example of a time where you had to work closely with clients, how did it go?

This question is a great way to see how you work with clients and your ability to communicate. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the client’s name or company name if they are public knowledge.

Example: “I had a client once who was very particular about their design preferences. They wanted something that would stand out but also fit in with the surrounding area. I worked closely with them to create a unique design that met all of their needs while still being aesthetically pleasing.”

4. If a client wanted something that didn’t meet code, what would you do?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle conflict. They want to know that you can be assertive and confident in your decisions, even if they go against a client’s wishes. In your answer, show the interviewer that you understand the importance of following building codes and regulations.

Example: “I would explain why I think it’s important to follow code and make sure my client understands as well. If they still insisted on having their way, I would try to find another solution that met code while also meeting their needs.”

5. Describe a new project you have worked on in the past year.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are passionate about design and architecture. It also allows them to see the type of work you have done in the past, which can help them understand what kind of work you might be able to do for their company.

Example: “In my last position as an architect at a small firm, I was tasked with designing a new office space for a local business. The business owner wanted a space that would allow her employees to collaborate more effectively while still maintaining privacy when needed. We decided on a layout that included several private offices, open spaces for collaboration and a few meeting rooms.”

6. Tell us about one of your recent projects and how you used technology to enhance the outcome.

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the latest technology and how you can apply it to benefit clients. When answering this question, try to describe a project that used new or innovative technologies and discuss how those technologies helped improve the final product.

Example: “I recently worked on a project where we had to design an office space for a company with over 500 employees. The client wanted to create a more open work environment that would allow employees to collaborate more effectively. We decided to use virtual reality to help us plan out the layout of the office space. Using VR allowed us to see what the office would look like before construction even began.”

7. How do you think technology will shape the future of architecture?

The interviewer may want to know how you will use technology in your work and how it can benefit the company. Use examples of how you have used technology in your previous projects or discuss what you would like to do with technology in the future.

Example: “I think that technology is a great tool for architects because it allows us to create more efficient designs, collaborate with clients and other team members remotely and reduce costs on construction. I’ve worked on several projects where we used 3D modeling software to design buildings before they were built so we could make changes as needed. This helped us save time and money during construction.”

8. What kind of experience do you have using BIM software?

BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is a software program that allows architects to create 3D models of buildings. It’s an important tool for the job and can help you complete projects more efficiently. When answering this question, make sure to mention your experience with BIM software and how it helped you in previous roles.

Example: “I have used BIM software since my first internship at a small architecture firm. I’ve learned how to use several different types of BIM software over the years, including Revit, ArchiCAD and SketchUp. These programs allow me to collaborate with other team members on projects and streamline the design process.”

9. Do you enjoy working independently or as part of a team? Why?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you might fit into their company culture. If they ask this, it’s likely that they value teamwork and collaboration in their organization. You should answer honestly about your preferences but also emphasize any skills or experiences that make you a good team player.

Example: “I enjoy working both independently and as part of a team. I find that my ability to work well alone helps me be productive when I need to meet deadlines on projects. However, I also love collaborating with others to solve problems and create innovative designs. In fact, I have found that my unique perspective often leads to new ideas for solutions.”

10. Are you comfortable working under pressure?

Working in a design firm can be challenging, especially when you’re working on tight deadlines. Employers ask this question to make sure that you are comfortable with the pressure of working in such an environment. In your answer, explain how you handle stress and give examples of times you’ve worked under pressure before.

Example: “I am very comfortable working under pressure. I thrive in fast-paced environments where there is a lot going on at once. Throughout my career, I have had many projects where I was working under tight deadlines. I always made sure to prioritize tasks so that I could meet all project requirements by the deadline.”

11. What is your favorite architecture firm and why?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleagues. It also helps the interviewer get an idea of what you like in terms of design and architecture. When answering this question, try to pick a firm that has similar values to Gensler.

Example: “My favorite architecture firm is MVRDV because they are so innovative with their designs. I love how they use unconventional materials to create unique structures. Their work is always pushing boundaries and making us think differently about our surroundings.”

12. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a plan for your career. They want to know that you are motivated and ambitious, so they can be sure you will fit in with their company culture. When answering this question, make sure you show the interviewer that you are driven and passionate about your career.

Example: “I am hoping to be working as an architect by then. I would love to work at a firm like Gensler where I could continue to learn and grow my skills. I hope to one day open up my own architecture firm.”

13. Would you be willing to travel if needed?

Gensler is a global firm that requires its employees to travel for work. If you are interviewing for an international position, the interviewer may ask this question to determine your willingness to travel internationally and how often you would be willing to do so. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention any previous experience traveling for work or discuss what you hope your future experiences will be like.

Example: “I have had some experience with international travel in my career thus far, but I am always excited to learn more about new places and cultures. I think working for Gensler would give me the opportunity to visit many different countries and cities around the world. I am very open to learning about other cultures and meeting new people.”

14. What do you know about Gensler?

This question is a great way to show your research skills and knowledge of the company. When you prepare for an interview, it’s important to learn as much about the company as possible. You can do this by reading their website or looking at job listings online.

Example: “I know that Gensler has been named one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for nine years in a row. I also know that they have offices all over the world, including locations in Europe, Asia and Australia. I’m excited to work with such a well-known firm.”

15. What would you say is the best decision you’ve made in your career so far?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you’re self-aware and can learn from past experiences. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about the decision you made and how it impacted your career.

Example: “The best decision I’ve made in my career so far was deciding to go back to school for architecture. I had been working as an interior designer for five years when I decided to pursue architecture. It took me two years of hard work and dedication to complete my degree, but I’m so glad I did because now I have more opportunities than ever before.”

16. What was your biggest failure?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential employee’s ability to overcome challenges. It also shows that you are willing to share personal information with the interviewer and can be an opportunity for you to show humility.

Example: “My biggest failure was when I didn’t ask my manager for help on a project. I had been working on it for weeks, but I wasn’t making any progress. I finally asked my manager for help, and he told me that I needed to start over because I hadn’t done enough research before starting the project. He helped me complete the project successfully.”

17. When was a time you went above and beyond for a client?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your work ethic and how you approach client relationships. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example that highlights your ability to collaborate with clients and other team members.

Example: “When I was working on a project for a client who had very specific design preferences, I noticed that they were having trouble finding furniture pieces that fit their aesthetic. So, I reached out to my contacts in the interior design industry and found a company that could create custom furniture pieces for our client’s office space. This helped them save money by not having to buy new furniture every time they needed something replaced.”

18. If you were going to sell our services to a potential client, how would you convince them to hire us?

This question is a great way to test your sales skills and ability to market the company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you would want to know if you were in that client’s position. Try to highlight the benefits of working with Gensler over other firms.

Example: “I would start by explaining how our collaborative approach to design makes us unique from other firms. I would then explain how we have 31 practices across the globe that allow us to work on projects of all sizes. I would also emphasize our commitment to sustainability and innovation as well as our dedication to creating beautiful spaces for our clients.”

19. Give an example of a time you had to stay flexible to accommodate changing needs.

This question can help interviewers understand how you adapt to new situations and challenges. Use examples from your previous work experience that show you’re willing to change plans or ideas when necessary.

Example: “In my last position, I was working on a project where the client wanted to add an additional floor to their building design. At first, I thought this would be challenging because of the way the rest of the building was designed. However, after talking with the client about their needs, we decided it would be best to redesign the entire building rather than just adding one more floor. This allowed us to create a better overall structure for the building.”

20. Have you ever been asked to work overtime? Did you mind doing this?

This question is a great way to learn more about the company culture and how they treat their employees. If you’re asked this question, it’s important to be honest about your experience with overtime and explain why you were willing to do it or not.

Example: “I’ve been asked to work overtime before at my previous job, but I was never forced to do so. I always made sure that I had enough time in between projects to complete them without feeling rushed. I understand that sometimes there are emergencies that require extra hours, so I’m happy to help out when needed.”