Q&A with trainee surveyor, Matthew Dollery

I worked previously in a corporate public relations role with some large construction and housebuilder clients and regularly went to on-site visits, viewing progress at key milestones. I realised I was far more interested in the places, developments, and properties themselves, rather than reputation management and corporate messaging. It also helps I come from two generations of surveyors, so it’s funny that after exploring other avenues, I decided to become a residential surveyor. This led me to pursue a relevant qualification and gain experience in the residential surveying world. 

I was also attracted to the mix of field versus desk-based work, as well as the variety of work itself. Not being stuck behind a desk all day, suits my work style and seeing new places each day is invigorating. I think a lot of young people in London and the surrounding areas, are attracted to jobs in the centre of London, but I wanted to build a life without the commute, in greener surroundings, working in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, and Greater London.

When I interviewed and spoke with Mark, it was obvious from the outset, he cares not only about his company but his colleagues’ wellbeing as well, promoting a healthy work-life balance and a sense of excitement working as a residential surveyor. Mark outlined how Nuven Surveyors had supported colleagues from trainees to chartered status giving them a range of opportunities, required to show a breadth and range needed for their assessments.

Mark carefully listened to my questions and concerns regarding stopgaps in my experience and knowledge, reassuring me how Nuven Surveyors could help me, starting by shadowing senior surveyors and a range of formal CPD sessions. He presented a strong case for a tailored approach particular to my needs, which has been nothing but excellent. This was very refreshing knowing I would receive a level of support and care, and that the support and guidance are always available, no matter what.

I also felt that Nuven Surveyors had invested in the right processes and systems, with the latest technology to aid surveyors in making their life more efficient and straightforward. It sounds a tad cliché, but this makes the world of difference, for a smaller company to invest in technology at this level.

Overall, Nuven’s kind and caring attitude to employees, alongside robust training programmes and investment in its people, informed my decision in accepting an offer with the company. 

Apart from conducting surveys and helping numerous customers in the purchases of their homes, I have thoroughly enjoyed our staff socials, which most recently involved a visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This was very kindly paid for by the company and was a great way to round off the year. It’s special to bring everyone from the team together during these occasions, where you can kick back and relax with friendly faces. 

My advice would be to take the offer! This young and dynamic company invests in its people and has helped me develop a lot in an extremely short period. The whole team is extremely personable and friendly, with a positive and can-do attitude to questions and queries you may have. It’s a place where being inquisitive is actively encouraged and rewarded. There is always someone at the end of the phone, or on Microsoft Teams to speak to, whether you have a query or just want to say hello and have a catch-up.

I would like to be working in Hampshire, renovating my own property, and having built a friendly network of property professionals in my locality, conducting not only Level 2 & Level 3 RICS Home Surveys and valuations for a variety of purposes, but extend outwards into Party Wall work to increase the services that Nuven Surveyors offer its customers. I would also like to be in a position where I can help and aid in the training and development of younger surveyors, having developed and progressed first-hand through the system.