Nikita is a sales advisor for housebuilder, Persimmon at Ashworth Place, Tithebarn Lane in East Devon. She is currently involved in the sale of 160 homes with a further 265 homes coming on-stream in 2021.
Some people might think that is a purely desk-based job, but that’s certainly not the case. Nikita needs a detailed understanding of the construction industry to be able to advise home buyers, as their main contact guiding customers from start to finish. The job is not 9 to 5 because she’s there to provide a smooth route to the sometimes challenging task of moving home.
Nikita explains:
“I love my job because its hugely varied. From meeting and greeting customers, explaining structural drawings, the building process, warranties, to consumer codes, I even visit them after they’ve moved in to make sure they are happy. I help a wide range of people – some may never have bought a home before right across to people who haven’t moved for 60 years. I make sure the process is as smooth as it can be and I stay in touch with them after they have moved.
“To do this role, you need to know about all the different elements in construction, including taking a CSCS examination (construction skills certification scheme).
“For every new site we work on, there is a site induction, so I can advise customers about the site. We review technical engineering drawings and build schedule charts. I explain to home-buyers about first and second fixes too.
“I started my career working in property in a family estate agents, then progressed to being a negotiator, then to a lister, then a senior negotiator right up to sales manager before joining Persimmon in 2019.
“For anyone wanting to work in this role, you need to have an eye for detail and be willing to learn, as it can take between 6 to 12 months to train fully.”
To find out more about Apprenticeships in Construction and the Built Environment: https://buildinggreaterexeter.co.uk/individuals/
