Introducing the SAY Graduate Consultants
We took some time to catch up with our three Graduate Consultants, Damon Stone, George Pearce and Jenny Kyne about their experience in our scheme since graduating from university and advice they would share with future graduates.
If you could sum up working at SAY in one sentence, what would it be?
Damon – “A sprinting start to developing my career in real estate.”
Jenny – “The nature of our job as consultants is often problem solving, it’s great to be in a job that gets you really thinking on a day-to-day basis.
George – “The culture at SAY ensures work is extremely rewarding and enjoyable, and I am fortunate to be surrounded by professionals who lead in their respective fields.”
How important do you think the SAY graduate scheme has been to your career so far?
Jenny – “Since starting at SAY I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects working alongside team members who are experts in their field. This has benefited me in getting the support and training that is so important to the development of my professional career.”
George – “Supported by an engaging and supportive work network, I have been offered a breadth of responsibility that has enabled me to develop as a graduate consultant and kick start my professional career. SAY has an extensive client list, and as a result I have been able to see the residential market from a number of perspectives, which will be hugely valuable as I develop as a consultant.”
Damon – “Being part of SAY, I am continually encouraged to learn and develop my understanding of the built environment. Furthermore, by being directly involved in all of SAY’s services, I am fortunate enough to gain a holistic and comprehensive overview of the real estate sector. As one of the first graduates to undergo SAY’s graduate scheme programme, it has been supplementary to developing my professional development, as the process has been both dynamic and tailored. I continue to be provided with several responsibilities, which subsequently has increased my confidence. It has now been over 14-months since I began working at SAY, and I feel as if I have had more opportunities than others would have in a large corporation.”
Since starting at SAY what is the best piece of advice you have been given by colleagues/other people in the industry?
George – “Manage your time effectively to optimise the quality of work produced.”
Jenny – “Be an active volunteer and take opportunities that arise.”
Damon – “To keep a diary of learnings from that week. This is assisting me in retaining new information, helping me reflect on my week, and providing me with a revision diary that can be used both within my APC and my career.”
What advice would you give to students who want to get into the industry?
Damon – “Be pro-active. Take on any opportunity, ask questions, and don’t be fearful of stepping outside your comfort zone. Be diligent. Benefit from the experience of those around you, including your colleagues and clients, and ensure to pay attention to detail when you are learning something new.”
George – “Be proactive when it comes to work experience, as these are the opportunities to identify interests and passions. Work experience also allows you to see your studies from a real-world perspective, which is extremely valuable when understanding the fundamentals of the industry.”
Jenny – “Get stuck in with some work experience and see if you enjoy it. One thing I’ve learnt working in property is that we try to promote the industry and therefore are happy to give time and training to young individuals who are interested.”
If you’re a future graduate interested in working in the built environment or joining the team at SAY, please get in touch with us, info@sayproperty.co.uk.
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