_Our Early Careers programme: supporting the next generation of the real estate industry

There was a notable change in our offices last week. Groups of new starters gathered in the kitchen to figure out the coffee machine and introduce themselves to each other, sharing details of their recent university experiences and hopes for the coming months.

It was the start date for our most recent intake of graduates into the business. Following our 2 year programme, they will qualify as surveyors or complete the Knight Frank Residential Academy, gaining valuable insights into multiple aspects of the real estate business.

Our 2022 graduates with William Beardmore-Gray, Senior Partner and Group Chair, Knight Frank

We spoke to our Early Careers Manager, Kate Doyle, to find out more about this innovative and important programme.

Tell us about the graduate schemes

“The process for recruiting graduates starts in October. We travel to universities across the country, attending careers fairs and hosting events to engage and attract graduates to join us. Applications for the graduate scheme are screened in November and final interviews take place in January. Successful graduates then join us in the following September for a 2 year training programme.”

"We run 2 distinct graduate schemes. The majority of our graduates complete the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) and qualify as Chartered Surveyors. The graduates may specialise in rural consultancy, valuations, planning or building surveying. Graduates rotate through different teams to gain experience and exposure across the business."

“This year, we started our second graduate scheme, the Residential Academy. It operates like a graduate management scheme really. Participants spend 6 months on rotation in sales and lettings, then research, PR, HR or IT. After 2 years they’re ready for a Residential role.”

“This is a unique programme in the industry. We’re looking to grow the Residential Academy in the future."

Can you tell us about the internships?

“In the summer months, we run 2 internship programmes. We invite university students with at least a year of study to apply. One is a 4 week internship in July at our Baker Street office and the other is a 12 week work placement in sales, lettings and residential offices across London and the regional sales offices.”

“At the end of these internships, we host an assessment centre. The majority of these candidates form part of our graduate scheme the following year. It’s a great initiative as we get to know the participants, they get to know our business and then they come back to join us to complete their graduate scheme!”

Kate introduced the 12 week work placement in 2019.

“I knew that there'd be students who’d spend 12 weeks of their summer learning with us. We started with 9 and ended with 6 going off to university and returning to us. They’re now about to qualify as surveyors. I’ve seen that transition. That scheme has grown to an intake of 49 this year.”

Are there any other new initiatives?

"Early Careers is such a fast moving and interesting area. We're always looking for new ways of attracting recruiting, developing and retaining talent; there are always new initiatives! The European Graduate Academy, Knight Frank Campus Ambassadors and the Business Services Apprenticeship are projects we're working on."

Knight Frank also has an apprenticeship programme. How does that work?

“Our apprenticeship programme is aimed at school leavers and those who decide university may not be for them. It provides different opportunities, as you combine study and work. Our apprentices gain hands-on experience alongside working towards an accredited qualification."

"We encourage colleagues from across the business to visit schools and promote opportunities at the Firm. I also work with sports academies and deliver training sessions to professional athletes, encouraging players to consider real estate as a post-sports career."

“I’d stress that it’s really important to discuss the different routes thoroughly. There are benefits, and drawbacks of both routes and it’s not a decision to take lightly.”

What are your top tips for parents looking to support their child with their career choices after university?

“First and foremost, do encourage them to be self-sufficient.”

“Don’t underestimate the importance of having a part time job (such as a Saturday job or volunteering). It makes a real difference before starting a career. It’s noticeable when they’ve had experience in customer service and so on.”

“I always say, 'Every interaction is an opportunity.' Social media and online networks are important, however, we connect more with our phones than we do each other! Encourage conversation and allow your child to explain and explore what they enjoy."

"It might sound simple, but 3 little words can make all the difference between a great conversation and a one way dialogue: 'Tell me more'."

Why do you think Knight Frank is a good place to start your career?

“People are often surprised by their responsibility from day one. Everyone is given autonomy and responsibility, including graduates.”

“We screen each application personally. We don’t rely on algorithms. We get to know our graduates – we mentor them and coach them. That means they end up in a position that suits them. We treat them as an individual.”

How do you connect with potential candidates?

“We have information and training packs for schools which cover all corporate areas of the business. We encourage our staff to visit local schools to chat to students about Knight Frank too.”

“We have ambassadors at lots of universities to share our schemes with students. We arrange talks and presentations to share what goes on at Knight Frank and what schemes they can get involved in. My colleague, Samantha is on the road a lot! Plus, our graduates join us ‘on tour’ to share their experiences with prospective students to add more encouragement for them to sign up too.”

What’s your favourite thing about the programme?

“I love to witness the progression of the graduates – from when we first meet them on the internship through to 3 years later with them qualifying as surveyors. It’s great to see!”