How Hettie Carpenter went from no experience in Block Management to become the youngest person to pass their MIRPM
30.04.2019
What initially attracted you to Block Management?
When it came to my last year at school, I was so unsure as to what I wanted to do. I had been offered a place at my chosen university; however I really did not want to go. I could see that university was not for me at all and I knew I wanted to get straight into working. One of my close family friends, Tony Hymers, offered me a job as Team Administrator at Burlington Estates. I was very excited by this opportunity and looked into Property to familiarise myself with the industry. I found it very interesting, so I took up Tony’s offer and started as the Team Administrator. I have then worked my way up and am now a Property Manager!
Being the youngest person in the industry to become MIRPM qualified, what piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry and looking to become qualified?
I would advise someone starting in the industry to stick through the exams and ask for help wherever needed. Do not feel ashamed asking questions as that is exactly how I have learnt. I came into Property Management with little knowledge, however by carrying out revision for the IRPM exams and asking questions has really helped me be where I am now.
What would you say is the key to being successful in this industry?
I think the key to be successful in this industry is to be patient with clients, listen carefully and to take on board criticism. In this industry there are plenty of complaints, this is natural, however, to be successful you have to deal with these issues in a professional manner and then learn from any mistakes. I would definitely also add that again asking where you are unsure will help you be successful especially as then your knowledge builds, and you can use this information to provide detailed emails to clients.
I would also say that being resilient is key to being successful as you must adapt to different clients and the different needs for each building/client.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in Block Management?
Definitely to stay calm and try and be as patient as possible!
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I really enjoy dealing with the major works projects. I have recently just taken on a new build, which is still in the process of being built, however being involved in this project I have found very enjoyable learning all the different steps for a new building.
What keeps you motivated and enthusiastic?
I would definitely say my team keep me motivated and enthusiastic. The team are always there to help where needed and help me learn every day. I would also just say that I generally love work in general. I knew university was not for me, however I did not think I would enjoy working in the property industry this much.
Who inspires you in the industry, and why?
My dad inspires me the most as he works in the property industry as an architect. He has always pushed me to learn and do my best and I feel he has helped me to be where I am now.
Having achieved so much as a young professional already, where are you going from here?
I am currently completing the RICS Associate 900 Hour Study Programme through UCEM, which I have just started. I would like to complete this in the next year and a half and then after this commence with the APC. My aim goal is to become a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor.
Congratulations Hettie, you are an inspiration to us all. We look forward to seeing your continued professional growth in the industry.