The Eye Test – Quantity Surveying

I have not been recruiting in the construction industry for long, and it will take some time before I grasp a better understanding of the sector. I am very passionate about sports and often watch a highly intelligent sports pundit, columnist, and commentator: Skip Bayless. If I have learned anything from Skip, it is the importance of the “eye test.” Whether you are analysing an athlete, a problem, a job, or an industry, use the “eye test.”

The “eye test” is exactly what it says: what do your eyes see?

When I started recruiting, it was clear that the Brexit hangover was still lingering over the construction and property industry. Consultants were losing projects, projects were being put on hold, and recruitment was minimal at best.

However, toward the end of October and throughout November, the Brexit hangover seems to be almost at an end (I stress “almost”).

I speak to consultancies daily, and the confidence in the voices of the Directors is growing. More and more projects have been put out for tendering, and, as a result, a number of projects have been awarded. Consequently, the demand for Quantity Surveyors is growing once again.

I work predominantly with consultancies in the North of the UK—Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, etc.—but I also play a part in London. My eyes tell me that client confidence is on the rise across the UK and that there is a particular demand for experienced Quantity Surveyors, ranging from intermediate to senior, including chartered QSs.

And now I revert to what I was told on my first day: Quantity Surveyors are in high demand across the UK, but there is an obvious skill shortage.

Experts and academics provide forecasts, reports, and analyses, which are vital for reading and predicting the future of the industry. However, never forget to use your eyes.