A surveyor will consult with clients on issues such as property and construction; working on the design and development of plans as-well as restorations. Surveyors also undertake detailed examinations of land and produce valuations for commercial, industrial or residential clients. To be a successful surveyor, it is crucial to have a good eye for detail, strong analytical and mathematical skills along with completing required industry qualifications such the APC (assessment of professional competence), leading to becoming chartered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Let’s take a look at insights directly from graduates working in the surveying industry;
‘My job evolves around a very well organised project team. My tasks include activities such as evaluating monthly applications; issuing instructions; attending various commercial meeting and many more.’
Graduate Commercial Manager, at Mace Limited
‘I run my own project, procuring subcontract packages, remeasures, pricing variations, attending client meetings and keeping good working relationships with everyone involved in the team.’
Quantity Surveyor, Commercial at Kier
‘Day to day activities differ, however, it’s not all desk paperwork. I’m often contacting suppliers, working on ground breaking projects, visiting construction sites and attending key meetings with clients.’
Graduate Commercial, Barratt West Scotland at Barratt Developments
‘Job satisfaction, making money on packages, providing value for money and what the client wants. Disagreements when assessments vary, losing money on packages’
Assistant Quantity Surveyor, at Kier
‘No day is the same. Unique graduate scheme, whereby I spend an entire year learning about the business and all of its different departments. Sponsorship to study for my RICS qualifications. Huge levels of trust placed in me, whilst working on key business projects. Exposure to working with a major company that is listed on the stock market. Invited to join the sharesaver scheme. Have the option to extend my holidays to 30 days, or sell 5 days in return for more pay. Pay could be higher.’
Graduate Commercial, Barratt West Scotland at Barratt Developments
‘Currently I am working on a very large, prestigious construction project that means I am exposed to the best working environment, where all procedures need to be followed. This also results in quick learning from the best.’
Application Advice: Galliford Try are a fantastic employer working on some of the most exciting construction projects in the UK. The projects are diverse and in many cases innovative and employees feel proud to work on legacy projects.
Interview Advice: Make it evident that you are enthusiastic and keen to learn. That you understand what a fantastic opportunity it would be to become a Galliford Try graduate.
Graduate Quantity Surveyor, London at Galliford Try
Application Advice: A lot of experience beforehand. Well presented CV. Stand out from crowd
Interview Advice: Confidence. Good presentation skills. Knowledge of property market and economy in general. Excel skills being able to answer general competency questions, e.g. ‘give an example of where you have had to perform under pressure’
Graduate Surveyor, Business Space Investment at Savills (UK) Limited
Application Advice: Ensure you have sufficient and relevant work experience
Interview Advice: Understand the role you are applying for and why you want it
Graduate Surveyor, at Savills (UK) Limited
Click here to view the full range of job reviews by graduates working in the surveying industry and take a look at the video below to hear more about the role of a graduate quantity surveyor at Kier.
Experts from the best companies in the UK share their experience and advice on how to boss the interview process
Jazz Panesar is a Digital and Technology Apprentice at Severn Trent. Read Jazz’s story here.
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Have your own questions prepared.It's your turn! As the interview comes to a close, one of the final questions you may be asked is "What can I answer for you?" Your interviewer will expect you to have...
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Research the Company.Do your homework about the employer and the industry so you are ready for the interview question "What do you know about this company?"
