The Pillars of Success in Building Consultancy

At EK, our administrative and support staff are the mortar holding our operations together. Their roles are diverse and indispensable:

• Proposal Preparation: Crafting detailed fee proposals ensures our services are clearly communicated and engagements commence smoothly.

• Office Wellbeing: From replenishing the office fruit bowl to organising social events, they foster a positive and cohesive work environment.

• Technical Troubleshooting: Addressing IT issues promptly keeps our digital tools functioning seamlessly, allowing surveyors to focus on their core tasks.

• Client Engagement: Coordinating seminars and representing EK at industry events enhances our visibility and strengthens client relationships.

• Financial Management: Chasing down debts and managing invoices ensure our financial health, enabling timely project completions.

These tasks, often operating behind the scenes, are crucial. They enable our surveyors to be attentive and personable, allowing them to go above and beyond for our clients.

The Broader Impact on SMEs

The significance of such roles extends beyond EK. In the UK's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute over 99% of all businesses, administrative and support staff are pivotal. They account for three-fifths of employment and around half of the turnover in the UK private sector. fsb.org.uk

Effective administration is fundamental to the success of any business. Managing finances, for instance, is time-consuming but essential. Tasks like sending invoices, chasing payments and reconciling receipts are critical for maintaining financial stability. 

Moreover, support roles in building consultancy firms, such as administrative assistants, provide essential services like report production, meeting coordination and client communication. These functions alleviate administrative burdens from consulting staff, allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities. 

Building a Foundation for Success

Investing in these unsung heroes is akin to reinforcing the foundation of a building. Their contributions lead to increased efficiency, faster project turnaround and enhanced client satisfaction. In the context of building consultancy, where precision and timeliness are paramount, such support is invaluable.

Furthermore, embracing technological advancements, such as AI, can assist administrative staff by automating routine tasks, thereby increasing productivity and allowing them to focus on more strategic activities. For example, AI systems are particularly well suited to tasks that involve large amounts of data and routine work such as CV screening, which is both complex and demanding.

Singing Their Praises

It's imperative that we recognise and celebrate these individuals – and we do. Regular acknowledgement not only boosts morale but also fosters a culture of appreciation and teamwork. Simple gestures, such as team shout-outs or awards for outstanding support staff, can make a significant difference.

Throughout the property management sector, success is a collective endeavour. While surveyors and engineers may be the visible pillars, it's the unsung heroes – the administrative and support staff – who ensure the structure stands firm. By investing in and appreciating these key players, SMEs lay the groundwork for a future where businesses don’t just survive – they thrive, standing tall like the very buildings we (as a sector) work so hard to protect.

Zoe Walheim MRICS is EK Group’s Operations Director