20 HOK Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviewing for a job at HOK, you can expect to be asked questions about your architectural and engineering skills, as well as your experience working on international projects. In addition, you may be asked questions about your design philosophy and how you approach problem-solving.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of sample questions and answers that you can use to practice your responses. With these tips, you’ll be ready to impress your interviewer and land the job you want.

HOK Interview Process

The interview process at HOK can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For intern and entry-level positions, the process may be shorter and include fewer interviews. For more senior positions, the process may be longer and include multiple rounds of interviews. In general, the interview process is thorough and includes a review of your work experience and portfolio. The difficulty of the interview varies depending on the position, but overall the experience is positive.

1. Do you have experience working with AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design program that many architects and engineers use to create their designs. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with the specific software they use at HOK. If you do, share your previous experience using AutoCAD. If you don’t, explain any other CAD programs you’ve used in the past.

Example: “I have worked extensively with AutoCAD in my last role as an architect. I found it easy to learn and was able to complete projects quickly because of my knowledge of the program. I also have some experience working with Autodesk Revit.”

2. What is your favorite building in the city we’re located? Why?

This question is a great way to see if you have any knowledge of the city. It also shows your personal preferences and opinions about architecture. When answering this question, try to pick a building that’s unique or interesting.

Example: “I really like the new library downtown. I think it’s important for cities to invest in their libraries because they’re such an integral part of the community. The design of this library is very modern but still has some classic elements. I love how open and inviting it feels inside. I’ve been there several times since it opened and always enjoy my time there.”

3. What kind of design do you think will be popular in 5 years? 10 years?

This question is a great way to see how much you know about the industry and what kind of trends are happening. It’s also an opportunity for you to show your creativity and innovation skills.

Example: “I think that in 5 years, we’ll be seeing more sustainable buildings with solar panels and wind turbines. In 10 years, I believe we will have figured out ways to make buildings completely self-sustaining. This would mean they don’t need any outside energy sources or supplies.”

4. Give us an example of a project that you worked on from concept to completion.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have the ability to work on large projects from start to finish. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example: “At my previous job, I worked on a project where we had to design an entire city from scratch. This was one of the most challenging projects I’ve ever worked on because there were so many different factors to consider when designing the city. However, I used my experience to create a plan for the city that would be functional and aesthetically pleasing. The client was very happy with the final product.”

5. Describe the process you take when working on a design project.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach your work and what steps you take to complete a project. Describe the process you use when working on projects, including any specific tools or techniques you use to manage your time and stay organized.

Example: “I start by researching the client’s needs and goals for the project. I then create an initial design concept that incorporates those elements while also considering the budget and timeline of the project. After presenting my ideas to the client, I make adjustments based on their feedback and continue developing the design until we reach a final solution. Throughout this process, I use computer modeling software to test different designs and ensure the structure is safe and meets all building codes.”

6. Have you ever had to work within a tight budget, how did you prioritize spending?

HOK is a global company that works with clients to create innovative and cost-effective designs. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your budgeting skills and how you can help them save money on projects. Use examples from previous work experience where you had to manage costs while still creating effective solutions for your client.

Example: “In my last position, I worked with the city to develop a new park design. We were working within a tight budget, so we needed to find ways to reduce construction costs without sacrificing quality. I met with the landscape architect to discuss different options for reducing expenses. Together, we decided to use recycled materials in the playground area of the park. This saved us thousands of dollars, which we used to hire additional staff members.”

7. Tell me about a time where you were not able to meet a deadline.

This question is a great way to see how you handle stressful situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the steps you took to ensure that you met your deadline and what you learned from the experience.

Example: “In my last position as an architect, I was working on a project where we had to meet several deadlines in one week. One of these deadlines was for a presentation with our client, which meant I needed to complete all of my work before the meeting. Unfortunately, I became sick during the week and was unable to finish my work by the time of the meeting. However, I called my team members and asked them to help me complete my work so I could present at the meeting.”

8. How well do you work under pressure?

HOK is a highly competitive firm that requires its employees to work under pressure. The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to handle stress and perform well in high-pressure situations. In your answer, explain how you manage stress and stay productive when working on tight deadlines.

Example: “I thrive under pressure because it motivates me to complete projects quickly and efficiently. I have experience working with clients who expect their projects to be completed within short time frames. At my previous job, I was tasked with designing an entire city block for a client. My team and I had only two months to design the entire project. We worked hard every day to meet our deadline and impress our client.”

9. What are some ways that you like to stay up-to-date with new information and trends in architecture and interior design?

HOK is a company that values innovation and creativity. They want to know how you stay current with the latest trends in architecture and interior design. Your answer should show them that you are passionate about your field and eager to learn more.

Example: “I am always looking for new resources to help me learn more about my craft. I subscribe to several architectural magazines, which have great articles on the latest innovations in technology and materials. I also follow some of the top architects on social media. Their work inspires me to try new things in my own designs.”

10. Walk us through one of your most successful projects.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are proud of your work and have the ability to take on challenging projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a project that was particularly unique or innovative.

Example: “I am most proud of my work on the new library in my hometown. I grew up going to that library as a child, so when they announced plans for a renovation, I applied for a position with HOK. The library had been built in the 1960s, so there were many outdated features. We decided to completely demolish the building and start from scratch. It took us two years to complete the project, but we were able to create an entirely new space that’s more accessible and user-friendly.”

11. Can you provide examples of your previous works?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer your skills and experience. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your strengths and how they can benefit HOK.

Example: “I have worked on several projects that involved designing buildings for clients with disabilities. In one project, I had to design an office building for a client who was wheelchair-bound. The main entrance of the building needed to be accessible by wheelchair, so I designed a ramp leading up to the front door. Another example was when I had to design a hospital for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. I made sure all doors were wide enough for wheelchairs and installed handrails in areas where there were stairs.”

12. What would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be honest. Employers want to know what you’re good at so they can use your strengths to their advantage. They also want to know about any weaknesses so they can help you improve them or decide whether you’re the right fit for the job.

Example: “I would say my greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I’m always willing to collaborate and find solutions that benefit everyone involved. My weakness is that sometimes I get too excited about an idea and forget to ask questions first. This has led me to make mistakes in the past, but I’ve learned from these experiences.”

13. Are you familiar with BIM?

HOK is a leader in the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with BIM and how it can be used to benefit projects. If you have worked with BIM before, explain your experience and what benefits you gained from using it. If you haven’t had any experience with BIM, you should express interest in learning more about it.

Example: “I’ve heard of BIM but I don’t have much experience with it. However, I am very interested in learning more about it because I think it could help me design better buildings. I would love to learn more about HOK’s BIM program.”

14. On average, what is the size of the team you usually work with?

This question is a way for the interviewer to understand your experience working with others. It also helps them determine if you would fit in well within their team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how many people you worked with on a project and what your role was.

Example: “In my last position, I worked with a team of five other architects and two engineers. We were all responsible for different aspects of the design process, so we each had our own roles. For example, one architect was responsible for creating floor plans while another created elevations. My role was to create 3D models that helped us visualize the final product.”

15. If hired, how could you contribute to our company’s goals?

Hiring managers ask this question to learn how you can help their company succeed. Before your interview, research the company’s website and social media pages to see what they’re working on. Think about how your skills and experience could contribute to these projects.

Example: “I’ve noticed that HOK is a leader in sustainable design. I’m passionate about creating buildings that are environmentally friendly. In my last role, I worked with a client who wanted to build a LEED-certified building. I helped them find ways to incorporate green elements into their plans without increasing costs. If hired here, I would love to continue contributing to more sustainable designs.”

16. We want all of our employees to be creative problem solvers. Provide an example of a situation where you used critical thinking skills to solve a problem or create something innovative.

HOK is looking for employees who can think critically and solve problems. This question allows you to show your ability to do both of these things, which are important skills in this role.

Example: “In my last position as a project manager, I was working on a new building design when the client asked us to add an additional floor to the plans. We had already completed most of the architectural work, so adding another floor would require significant changes to the structure. I knew that we could complete the job within our budget if we added the extra floor, but it would take longer than expected.

I gathered all of my team members together to discuss the situation. Together, we decided to add the extra floor to the plans. It took more time to complete the project, but we were able to meet the needs of the client while staying within our budget.”

17. Are you comfortable leading a team?

HOK is a large company that requires employees to work in teams. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience leading a team and how well you can collaborate with others. Show the interviewer your leadership skills by describing a time when you successfully managed a project or group of people.

Example: “I’ve always been passionate about architecture, so I decided to pursue it as a career. In my last job, I was responsible for managing a small team of architects who were designing a new hospital wing. We had to meet strict deadlines while also ensuring our designs met all safety regulations. My team and I worked together to create an efficient workflow that allowed us to complete the project on time.”

18. What type of software applications are you proficient in?

HOK uses a variety of software applications in their projects, so it’s important that you’re familiar with the ones they use. If you have experience using HOK’s preferred software, share your knowledge and explain how it can benefit the company.

Example: “I am proficient in AutoCAD, Revit and Navisworks. I’ve used these programs for my past two positions, and I find them to be very useful when designing buildings and creating 3D models. The ability to create detailed designs and collaborate with other team members is essential to completing projects on time and within budget.”

19. In your opinion, what makes an effective leader?

HOK is a large company with many employees, so it’s important that you can lead others. Your answer should show the interviewer your leadership skills and how they will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “An effective leader needs to be able to motivate their team members while also being open to feedback. I believe that leaders need to have confidence in themselves but also listen to other people’s ideas. They should be willing to make changes when necessary and always put their team first.”

20. What attracted you to HOK?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your interest in working for their company. Use this opportunity to share what you know about HOK and why you’re excited to work there.

Example: “I was attracted to HOK because of its reputation as an innovative leader in architecture and engineering. I’ve always been interested in how buildings are designed, so I’m thrilled to have the chance to work with such a forward-thinking firm. I also appreciate that HOK is committed to creating sustainable designs that benefit both people and the environment.”