Apprentice Surveyor Review

I have the lead on small projects, which involves meeting clients, doing independent research, and writing reports. I am also involved on taking on smaller parts of the large projects that we have for national and global clients, and this involves working closely with senior members of the team, undertaking research and preparing presentations. I have to chair a team meeting every other month.

I've learnt new valuation, business development and networking skills. I have developed my skills in interacting with clients and attracting new business. I have been sent on external training courses for software and technology. I am being put through the APC process which is an important qualification for my career.

I really enjoy my programme as I get broad experience of a global company and simultaneously undertake a degree. This is a challenge but I am glad that I'm doing it. I also appreciate the experience that I'm gaining working all the way through an apprenticeship rather than having gone to university and done a shorter graduate programme.

In terms of CBRE it is very well-structured and organised, however UCEM is not. It seems to be quite a disjointed organisation and I've had numerous communication issues with them over the last 3 years. CBRE however is well set up to support apprenticeship programmes and the apprenticeship scheme fits seamlessly alongside the graduate programme.

If I could give 20 stars I would. CBRE have been an exceptionally supportive employer, from close team members all the way up to the managing director level. I have had some challenging life experiences in my personal life over the last few years with which CBRE has been extremely accommodating, helpful and supportive, and this has made me very loyal and committed to CBRE as a company.

I receive full training and support in terms of working towards both my apprenticeship degree in Real Estate Management that I am undertaking alongside my work, and also towards my Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) qualification which will lead to me being a chartered surveyor. The training is provided during working hours and is strongly supported.

I feel that the undergraduate degree that I am undertaking is useful towards my role because we have to do valuation, planning, financial, development appraisal, technology, law and management modules, and all of these I use on a regular basis, so the academic side has really improved my performance and understanding at work.

There are lots of extra-curricular activities to get involved in, such as charity events, networking, sports days, fundraisers, support for local careers fairs, and lots of social activities organised by our excellent next generation team. There are also professional networking opportunities with senior members of the company. When I'm not working I read, horse ride, walk my dogs and do classes at the gym and I feel that I have a good work life balance to encompass all of this. CBRE are very supportive of me doing a gym class during the working day.

Yes

I would recommend CBRE to any of my friends because it's a company where I have felt supported, made friends, developed professionally and academically, and feel that it gives great opportunities to balance a competitive and successful career with a happy home life. There are also really good opportunities for women and parents, with CBRE currently having the best maternity package in the real estate industry, and paternity and shared parental leave is also well-supported.

In terms of the application process, definitely get some work experience in the real estate industry. The talent and learning team will be looking for that on your CV, as it shows a genuine interest. In the interview, they don't expect you to know everything, but prepare by reading some news such as property week, and have a look at any big projects or deals that CBRE may have been involved in recently. It sounds impressive, if you're asked to discuss anything topical, if you have a general overview of the property market. On the assessment days, don't interrupt others but also make sure that your voice is heard so that you have an opportunity to impress those that are watching you. And be prepared to compromise with team members - teamship is a big theme at CBRE. When you start at the company, make the most of every single networking opportunity there is. It feels quite daunting at first, and also you may question how helpful it is, but further down the line it becomes very clear how important those connections are that you make professionally - I rely on my professional network on a nearly daily basis. I wish that someone had told me to have more confidence in my work - I get very anxious about everything being perfect and right, and I have found that my line manager doesn't expect me to know how to do everything already. They are there to support and guide you, and the mistakes that I've made have been so educational. Now I'm confident about asking when I'm not sure, but I channel my intent to get it right into my preparation - really thorough preparation is impressive both to employers and clients, and I feel proud when this is conveyed back to me.