The 5 things slowing down your career - and how to fix them

At SONDR, we work with hundreds of surveyors across the country and have spotted five common issues that hold people back - and what you can do to move forward.

1. You’re waiting for your employer to drive your progression

If your current company isn’t investing in your development, whether that’s funding your APC, offering structured mentoring, or giving you exposure to broader asset types, it might be time to stop waiting. Career acceleration rarely happens passively. You need to ask: Does this environment support the kind of surveyor I want to become?

Fix it: Be proactive. Speak with your line manager about progression routes. If there’s no clear answer, start exploring other firms who will invest in you. At SONDR, we work with employers who don’t just want bodies in seats - they want to build long-term careers.

2. You’re underestimating your own value

We meet too many valuation surveyors who are undervaluing their skillset. If you’re MRICS qualified with solid experience across residential, commercial, or development valuations - you are in demand. The market is crying out for strong surveyors, particularly at surveyor and senior surveyor level.

Fix it: Do some salary benchmarking (download our 2025 Real Estate Salary & Trends Guide). Look at how your skills match up in the current market. Often, the first step to progression is simply recognising you’re already ready for it.

3. You’re too narrowly focused

If all your experience is in one niche, you might be limiting yourself. Broader exposure across commercial, development, or investment valuations can unlock more senior roles, especially if you want to move into asset management or client-side positions later.

Fix it: Ask for secondments or projects that broaden your exposure. Alternatively, we can introduce you to firms that will give you more variety.

4. You’re not building the right network

Your next opportunity probably isn’t on a job board. It’s in someone’s head. Someone who’s about to open a role and would rather fill it quietly with someone trusted. If your network doesn’t include decision-makers or specialist recruiters who understand your niche, you’re at a disadvantage.

Fix it: Get visible. Attend events, engage on LinkedIn, or reach out to a recruiter like SONDR who networks on your behalf. We have direct relationships with heads of teams, valuation directors and senior partners - people you want to know before they’re hiring.

5. You’re stuck in the wrong type of company

Some firms are designed for progression. Others aren’t. If you’re in a company with flat structure, outdated tech, and no clear succession plan, you may have already hit the ceiling. Don’t let misplaced loyalty keep you stagnant.

Fix it: Take a long look at where your company is heading and whether that aligns with where you want to go. If the answer is no, start looking elsewhere. We can help you transition discreetly and strategically.

Ready to move your career forward?

At SONDR, we specialise in connecting valuation surveyors with the right opportunities - not just jobs, but careers with long-term growth. Whether you’re newly chartered or looking to step up into a senior or associate role, get in touch and we’ll help you navigate your next move with clarity and confidence.