Essential advice for a career in residential development sales

We recently sat down with Tabitha Allingham and Georgia Zambakides, to discuss residential development careers and essential property recruitment advice. The new homes job market is experiencing significant shifts that both job seekers and hiring managers must navigate. 

Are professionals moving jobs in today's market? 

We're seeing mixed movement in the property recruitment landscape. Some professionals are staying put due to market uncertainty, whilst others view this as an opportunity to join new businesses and pave the way forward. 

People will have conversations about opportunities, but they need absolute certainty before making decisions. Both candidates and hiring businesses want assurance of the right fit. This cautious approach differs from three years ago when people moved primarily for financial gain. 

Essential property recruitment advice for job seekers 

If you're seeking a residential development career, standing out is crucial. The property and construction sectors face skills shortages, creating opportunities for those who present themselves effectively. 

Go back to basics 

Ensure your CV isn't solely ChatGPT-generated – authenticity matters. Arrive well-prepared to interviews. For site roles, research the development thoroughly. Know the hiring manager's name and follow up with a thank-you message. 

Ask intelligent questions 

As an interviewee, ask good questions to fully understand the role. Don't assume interviewers will offer all relevant information. Address future plans, career progression opportunities, and company culture directly during interviews. 

Think outside the box 

Don't dismiss opportunities because the job description doesn't perfectly match expectations. A role might be shaped around you once they see your potential. 

Pick the company, not the job. Choose businesses offering multiple promotions rather than constantly moving for marginal salary increases. Look for organisations demonstrating internal progression. 

How hiring managers can attract top talent 

For those hiring talent in the property sector, the landscape has shifted dramatically post-pandemic. 

Offer flexibility and work-life balance 

Candidates want options around where they base themselves. For site roles, offering weekends off makes positions significantly more attractive. 

Provide financial security 

With the cost-of-living crisis, candidates seek financial stability. Pay fairly and offer a sufficient basic salary for professionals to afford living in London and the surrounding areas. 

Sell your business, not just the job 

Good people buy into businesses, not job descriptions. Present your company's vision and growth plans during interviews. When approaching candidates who aren't actively job hunting, sell the opportunity convincingly. Show off your company culture through team socials and events. 

Communicate your values 

Candidates increasingly ask about sustainability policies and environmental commitments. Create benefit packs to share voluntarily. People now ask about maternity and paternity policies, long-term incentives, and holiday flexibility more than basic salary. At deverellsmith, we ensure clients present these details clearly. 

Keeping property attractive as a career choice 

Property's greatest strength is its sociable nature. Getting out, meeting people, and attending networking events make this industry enjoyable. However, increased remote working means fewer networking opportunities. We recommend maintaining a social element to keep the fun alive. 

When discussing the sector with emerging talent, maintain a positive tone. Constant negativity doesn't sell the industry effectively. New players entering the market with fresh perspectives create essential movement and evolution. 

Career progression in residential development 

For those wanting to advance their residential development careers, the willingness to learn is paramount, and don’t be afraid to put yourself in challenging situations to drive professional growth. Volunteer for tasks that demonstrate commitment and take initiative. 

Focus on knowledge accumulation rather than job titles. The longer you work somewhere, the more credible you become. According to recent recruitment market analysis, the property sector continues generating significant hiring activity, offering substantial career development opportunities. 

If you're seeking top talent for your team, get in touch with our specialist consultants today.