Insight Programme Student Review

The insight was a week of shadowing a member of the Valuation team. It involved assisting on daily tasks such as completing due diligence checks and researching comparables and inputting them into Valuation reports. Creating a rates summary and calculating Rates Payable. Listening to Department Overviews on the different pathways in property. Attending Lunch and Learn on Food Waste and Improving Sustainability. Learning about the different methods of valuation including the DRC/ investment and residual methods

I have developed a more secure understanding of what valuation entails and the various formulas and mathematics required such as how net initial yield is calculated. My excel skills have improved significantly. I have learnt so much about market trends such as the growing Life Sciences sector and the increasing presence of ESG values. I have developed my understanding of mapping services.

It was exciting. I picked this as a course to study and a career to go into because of the variety of prospects it offered. I have learnt more about roles i had no previously considered but now have an interest in such as Property Management. I think the rotation aspect of the Graduate scheme is so valuable not only to decide what part of the industry interests yo but to also develop competencies that will serve you as you collaborate within your career.

Unlike any workplace environment I have ever been around in that everyone was so supportive and inclusive of each other. I like the open nature. That is to say, there is no visible stratification of roles. Heads of department and managers are inviting to grads and insight students like me. Happy to take the time out to teach and discuss. It doesn't feel as though they are unapproachable. It is very sociable and collaborative. We went out for lunch at one point and there were drinks in the office another. It gave me a chance to interact with people from various sections of the business and all were very helpful to me in outlining what their roles entailed.

I have loved it everyday. In just a week i have learnt so much about Valuation and about property as an industry. I have enjoyed learning about the various pathways too and gaining practical knowledge about the competencies required.

Yes

I would advise them to come prepared with questions. No question is seen as silly and you will learn as much as you try to. An eagerness and will to learn is attractive to an employer as much as existing knowledge. Don't be put off by a lack of experience because Savills have proved themselves to be willing and eager educators who are very supportive of people entering the business without previous property experience. Just be confident in what you can offer in way of your personality, skills and work experience in anything. It is applicable and valuable. I would also advise people applying to Savills to step out of their comfort zone and approach people; ask their name and department and introduce yourself. It can be uncomfortable and an adjustment but don't overthink it. Just start with "hello." People here are genuinely so receptive to you being outgoing and will most likely make you feel at ease. Write notes on everything. I have basically filled my notebook in one week. It will be so valuable for future applications to recount your experience and the type of things you've learnt or heard. That is another thing: listen!!! Just from conversations that have transpired around me, I have learnt so much.