Daniel Bycroft, chartered surveyor

Chartered surveyor

Answers supplied by Daniel Bycroft, MRICS, a chartered surveyor with regional property consultants Bidwells in Norwich, one of the largest independent UK firms of property consultants outside London which is active in all major sectors of the market - commercial, rural and residential.

What does the job entail?
The job involves a variety of tasks concerned with the buying and selling of freehold and leasehold commercial property on behalf of local, regional and national clients. This includes regular property inspections, surveys, report writing, telephone work, negotiation and liaison with clients and other property professionals.

What skills and qualifications are needed?
You need a good understanding of property and the property market, observation, good interpersonal skills, excellent communication skills, accuracy in report writing and you need to be computer literate. A business related education is required including an accredited university degree in a property or business related subject. You also need to be a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) which involves two years of further training on the job whilst keeping a diary record and a final interview before you can be accepted as a member.

What type of person will fit in?
There are a wide range of personalities in the surveying profession but you do need to be self motivated, organised, outgoing and confident.

What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
The job is very rewarding when you complete negotiations on a big property deal and you get to spend time out of the office on meetings and property inspections. The job provides good pay and benefits together with a good lifestyle however it can sometimes be stressful to complete marketing and other professional reports within tight timescales.
What opportunities exist for career progression?
There are plenty of opportunities for the forward thinking competitive chartered surveyor. You could ultimately join the partnership of a firm or you could decide to set up your own business.

What can I expect to earn?
For the best guide to salaries in this profession check out the RICS Salary Survey 2003 at www.rics.org.

Any hints on getting a job in this area?
Try to keep an eye on the Norwich property market. There are a number of surveying firms in Norwich and when the market is going well good surveyors are always needed. For information on qualifications, courses and careers in surveying visit the RICS website at www.rics.org/careers or call 0870