The Two Quantity Surveyors: Change vs Stagnation

There is a lot of change coming to the Quantity Surveying world.

AI and software are coming fast.

In the near future software will take over 70% of the work that Quantity Surveyors are doing right now. That is very scary.

My aim is to make you aware of which Quantity Surveyor you are so you can be proactive and start making plans to adapt.

The question is..who would you rather be?

And will you adapt?

In a big city known for its ever-evolving skyline, two quantity surveyors, Tom and Sarah, began their careers at the same construction firm. Both were bright, hardworking, and eager to make their mark in the industry.

However, their approaches to personal and professional growth were starkly different, leading to vastly different outcomes.

Tom stuck to his old beliefs…

Tom was a traditionalist. He believed that the methods and practices he learned in university and during his early career were timeless. He resisted new technologies, preferring to rely on his trusty calculator and spreadsheets. Tom often dismissed the importance of networking, convinced that his technical skills alone would propel him forward.

Over time, the construction industry around Tom began to change. New software for project management and cost estimation became the norm, and sustainable building practices gained prominence. Despite these shifts, Tom clung to his old ways, believing they were just passing fads.

Sarah embraced new beliefs…

Sarah, on the other hand, was curious and adaptable. She constantly sought out new knowledge, attending workshops and webinars on the latest industry trends. Sarah embraced digital tools, learning to use advanced software that made her work more efficient and accurate. She also built a strong professional network, joining industry groups and regularly meeting with peers to exchange ideas.

Sarah understood that the construction industry was evolving, and she adapted her beliefs and practices accordingly. She saw the value in sustainable building and incorporated these principles into her projects, earning a reputation for innovative and environmentally-friendly solutions.

As years went by, the differences in Tom and Sarah's careers became evident….

Tom found himself increasingly frustrated. His refusal to adapt meant he was often out of sync with the latest industry standards. Clients began to prefer working with quantity surveyors who used modern techniques and technologies. Tom's workload decreased, and he struggled to keep up with the demands of his job. Promotions and opportunities for advancement passed him by, as the firm sought leaders who could drive innovation and efficiency.

Sarah, in contrast, thrived. Her willingness to learn and adapt made her an invaluable asset to the firm. She quickly rose through the ranks, leading major projects and mentoring younger colleagues. Sarah's projects were known for their precision, efficiency, and sustainability, attracting high-profile clients and generating significant revenue for the firm.

Sarah's professional network also paid dividends. She was often invited to speak at industry conferences, and her insights were sought after by peers and leaders alike. Her reputation as a forward-thinking and adaptable quantity surveyor opened doors to opportunities that Tom could only dream of.

Let’s see what the outcome of their career choices were….

Tom's resistance to change left him in a stagnant position. As the industry moved forward, he remained stuck in the past, his skills and methods increasingly obsolete. Tom eventually left the firm, struggling to find new opportunities in an industry that had outgrown him. His career plateaued, and he found himself in less challenging roles, unable to realise his full potential.

Sarah's career soared. She became a partner at the firm, leading innovative projects that set industry standards. Her expertise in new technologies and sustainable practices made her a sought-after consultant. Sarah's adaptability and forward-thinking mindset ensured that she stayed at the cutting edge of the industry, continually progressing and finding fulfilment in her career.

This really highlights the importance of adapting to change and updating one's beliefs in a rapidly evolving industry. While Tom's refusal to let go of outdated practices led to stagnation, Sarah's embrace of new ideas and technologies propelled her to success.

In the construction industry, those who are willing to demolish old beliefs and build new ones are the ones who will thrive. By staying curious, adaptable, and open to change, we can ensure that our careers progress as quickly and efficiently as a well-managed construction project.

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