My Apprenticeship Journey at Landmark

Well, would you look at this…five months on from my last Blog and I’ve only gone and completed my Sales Apprenticeship here at Landmark! I honestly can’t believe how quick these months have flown by, it’s been nothing short of an amazing journey. I remember my first few hours trying to get my head around who everybody was and remembering all these new names! Looking back, I vividly remember all the warm smiles and hello’s as I took my seat and instantly feeling welcomed.

The first week was most challenging purely because of the sheer amount of information I had to take in. From acronyms, to new passwords, policies and most importantly all of the shiny platforms that I’d be using. Thankfully, I had a knowledgeable support network that would guide me through it all. One thing I never felt afraid to do was to ask questions, for the first week I think I even asked if I was allowed to go to the loo..

Who? What? When? Where? Why? All became my new best friends. It was like I was an inquisitive toddler all over again. As annoying as I thought I was being the constant reassurances like ‘it’s perfectly fine Farouq, ask away’ or ‘don’t be so silly, we are here to help you (accompanied by a smiley face)’ kept any worries I had at bay.

I have to say a massive thank you to my Assessor Julie Chell and my sales trainer Stuart Allen both at QA Apprenticeships for the instrumental support and guidance throughout the duration of my apprenticeship scheme. Interactive workshops equipped me with the tools and resources to become the best sales professional I could be. Stuart’s enthusiastic teaching approach made it feel like I had stumbled across gold dust choosing QA as the training provider. Confirming all my prior thoughts that a career in sales was the best choice for me.

I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t achieved something new on a monthly or even fortnightly basis, most days I’d go home yapping like an excited Yorkshire Terrier telling everyone what I’d done during the day. I remember when I had written a blog about my experience at Landmark which was circulated to the wider DMGT group. I really felt a part of something massive, a sense of belonging which is always a good feeling.

My most memorable achievement? I’d have to say it was when I hit my quarterly target from January to March. Work that I’d done, hours that I had put in had amounted to me not only reaching, but exceeding my target was gratification that what I was doing and learning was resulting in positive results.

So where does Farouq go from here? Well, I have recently accepted a full time permanent position here at Landmark and my hunger to succeed is echoed by my fellow Landmarkers. But, before I take the next step I need to be the best I can be now as Account Executive, solidify my foundations and become a hub of knowledge. The only way is up, and as I have said before, I can see a promising future here for myself at Landmark.

 

Farouq Sulaiman
Account Executive
Landmark Information Group

Why I chose an apprenticeship with QA and Landmark

My journey started in the summer of 2013; I had just made what I felt to be one of the most important decisions of my life. I left university! It took a lot of time and thought before making my final decision. Bearing in mind I hadn’t got around to breaking the news to my parents, possibly one of the scariest things ever. I consulted with my elder brother and we came up with a plan of action. I have always had a clear vision of where I could see myself in the future; however the difficult part was choosing the best route to take.

I’ve always looked up to my brother and seen him as my first point call for information and advice, so we sought out to look at my various options. Full time work? Take a gap year? Both valid options but not necessarily the right for me. I was brought up to understand the value of education and its importance at any level, and I felt if I was learning whilst being given the opportunity to put in practice then I would benefit the most.  One of my main strengths is my ability to communicate and interact with different people especially as my previous role was working in Vodafone as a Sales Advisor. With my older brother working as a Business Development Manager, he works closely with sales professionals and says he can see similar attributes and urged me to pursue a career in sales.

That’s when I started to put some research into apprenticeships. Initially I wasn’t too keen on the idea, but after carefully weighing up the umpteen amount of pros vs cons it was a no brainer: no tuition fees, the support of a learning agency to search for a company on my behalf, the chance to earn whilst I learn, a qualification at the end and a vast array of different disciplines to choose from. I approached QA Apprenticeships with a positive attitude yearning to start my career in sales. They interviewed me and I passed the initial screening process, the next step was to find me an organisation to work in.

The first role that came up was in fact for Landmark Information Group and I attended the group interview welcomed by Greg Bryce, Commercial Director, Nicola Rogers and Rob Phillipson, Heads of Sales and representing the HR team Lynne Parker and Cristabel Noseda. We did a number of group activities throughout the day and was invited back for a formal one-to-one interview two weeks later. I managed to sell myself enough to be successful for the role as Account Executive.

My only qualm is I wish I was made aware sooner!

It’s safe to say I am thoroughly enjoying my first 6 months here at Landmark; welcomed with warm smiles every morning from the Customer Service team, challenged on daily basis to go above and beyond with the accounts that I manage and the constant requirement to remain up to date with industry activity. Zillah Goode, my line manager has also supported me greatly. Whether it be answering my constant barrage of question or coaching me on how to approach different clients.

I am incredibly proud to say that I work for Landmark Information Group, a company that is at the forefront of the property industry delivering intelligence and solutions that enable professionals to make informed decisions. . Nicola said something to me in my very first interview that has stuck with me ever since, because I feel exactly the same way: “When I first started, I didn’t think I would find maps SO interesting”.  . I believe having a genuine interest in your line of work with a clear vision of where it can take you is key in choosing your job, coupled with friendly staff and a good atmosphere you are destined for success; which has been pivotal in my first few months here at Landmark

Having so many role models within Landmark has also been a massive bonus. I have had the opportunity to sit and talk with different senior members of staff who I may not normally come into contact with. Discussing how they got into their roles and the kind of work they deal with. I even have a mentor – Mark Burnard, Senior Product Manager - who I regularly meet with to ask questions and to generally give me an insight into the other parts of the business.
I was also fortunate enough to attend Landmark’s flagship Risky Business conference at the Royal Institute of Civil Engineers back in November. I listened to key speakers discuss the current issues surrounding  environmental due diligence and witnessed the technology showcase where we debuted Envirocheck Analysis, Envirocheck Analysis Mobile and Augmented Reality. It was a real opportunity for me to network with both colleagues across the group as well as our customers.

Progression within my sales career is key and I feel joining Landmark has been a springboard start to my personal development and growth. I can certainly see myself staying with Landmark Information Group after my apprenticeship and I am excited to see what the future holds for me here. Watch out Account Managers…I’m coming for you!

Farouq Sulaiman
Account Executive

Landmark takes part in the National Apprenticeship Week

With 11 great apprentices on board, Landmark carries out a number of supportive activities.
By Sarosh Khalid

National Apprenticeship Week (3-7 March) now in its seventh consecutive year, proposes to raise awareness around the successful scheme of apprenticeships and to help build a positive impact amongst employers, individuals, teachers, parents, media and the wider community. As most employers took turn in participating in this year’s National Apprenticeship week carrying out various activities, we also got a chance to showcase our Apprentices experiences, thought and values here at Landmark. In support of the positive scheme, Landmark Information Group has taken on 11 successful apprentices in various departments including Finance, Sales, Marketing, IT, Data and Customer Services to ensure the bright future for the younger generation.

Taking our turn in the National Apprentice Week, we took part in various shadowing activities across all offices including Exeter and Reading and delivered great insights into the working ways of Landmark.

Emily Stephens and Aidan Richards, both working in Exeter as Apprentices within the Finance department reported back how they felt about their shadowing activity and what they made of their day away from their desks. They looked at finance organisation charts and spoke about current job roles, what they did previously and what they would like to do in the future. Emily said: “The day was more interesting than I thought it would be! It’s really nice to see where my work comes into play with the rest of the team’s job roles”. The pair who are always so enthusiastic about working here at Landmark, summarised that the Shadowing activity helped them decide to go into future Finance and Management Accountant roles.

Whilst this took place, other apprentices sat in on meetings discussing their division and additional product knowledge. Jack Sheppard and Daniel Butler, both bright Systems Apprentices sat in with the CTO, Ian Clarke as they spoke with members of the recent acquisitions. Jack joined Landmark nearly a year ago in May 2013 and says: “I was eager to see how other aspects of the company operate and this meeting gave me the perfect opportunity to experience this”.

Similarly, to gain a better understanding of the company, we had Jay Cardona-Martin and Farouq Sulaiman travel up to Birmingham to take part in the Monthly Sales meeting with all the regional account managers. Jay and Farouq, both Sales Apprentices primarily working in Environment & Mapping had the opportunity to listen in on product development aspects and understand the pre-planning and level of detail that goes into all Landmark products within the Legal Division. Farouq felt he learnt a great deal more and said: “The amount of discussion and ideas in the meeting were brilliant. We understood the different approach needed for the clients in comparison to Environment & Mapping and became aware of what other activities that are taking place in terms of social media”.

Charlotte Smith and Aaron Manley, our newest Data apprentices joined Landmark early this year in January and have comfortably settled in with their teams. They shadowed Bob Maskell, Customer Service Manager, as he gave them background information on the company and slightly more insight on Landmark Solutions. Charlotte said: “We learnt that Landmark sell historic maps and an Act that was introduced in 1976 actually kicked off Landmark selling maps”. As Charlotte and Aaron understood the ground commitments of their area they were also being informed about the different contracts they will be dealing with.

I went into London to attend the Voice of Apprenticeships Conference to see how the status of apprenticeships could be changed. I came across some very powerful ideas and left with Matthews Hancock’s statement: “The best people to talk about apprenticeships are apprentices themselves”. The conference allowed me to voice my opinions on apprenticeship with other apprentices within the room as we collectively addressed all issues.

As the National Apprentice Week came to an end, we heard back from all apprentices about how they felt in their roles and received excellent feedback. Jack said: “Overall I would rate the experience highly as it gave me a greater understanding into how different businesses achieve their goals” along with Aaron: “Thank you Bob for his time and the organisers of the day as it was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about our company and its day to day organisation”.

In return it was great to hear that Landmark values its apprentices’ contributions. As much as we think we are learning from them, Landmark learns from us every day, as Ian Clarke, Chief Technology Officer, eloquently stated “For me, it’s about finding and developing talent and giving people an opportunity.”

Voice of apprentices – National Apprenticeship Week.

The best people to tell everyone about apprenticeships are apprentices themselves
By Sarosh Khalid

Now in its seventh consecutive year, National Apprenticeship Week (3-7 March) provides apprentices with the opportunity to collectively share and showcase their achievements, skills and experiences. It is also a significant platform to help raise the awareness and profile of apprenticeships amongst employers, individuals, teachers, parents, media and the wider community.

As a QA apprentice here myself, this week was very important to me and helped highlight the doors that are open for all apprenticeships.

There was no better way for me to share my experiences and express my opinions than to head on down to the ‘The Apprentice Debate’ to express my view, where joined by other QA apprentices, we addressed the current status of Apprenticeships and how significant issues could be resolved. Ben Pike, director of QA training and Matthew Hancock MP, Minister for skills and enterprise both attended as keynote speakers to endorse the opinions and values of the apprentices. Lizzie Moffatt and Andy Fowler, founding members of the IAC, who co-supported the event with EAL, described how apprenticeships changed their lives and why they think apprenticeships should be largely supported.

Ben Pike encouraged apprentices to address their concerns, such as careers information and advice, as well as recommending any improvements. Hancock shared his thoughts: “it needs to become the new norm, that when a learner leaves schools they either go to university or into an apprenticeship”.  He praised the government for funding and fully supporting the system and stated: “all sorts of things are taking place to drive up the registrations for apprenticeships – but employers are needed to come to the table”. The Minister for Skills and Enterprise expressed his view that employers need to promote the value that apprentices bring to their business: “things like IT that were not around 40 years ago are now a huge part of our economy, and apprenticeships are important for ensuring the right skills are in place”.

A recurring topic on the day was the lack of career guidance given to young adults - schools don’t seem to steer towards apprenticeships. Hancock’s response was: “that we’re also putting a stronger legal duty on schools to provide independent and impartial advice”.

I took the floor and with mic in hand explained that “there are cases where you will put an individual in front of an employer and they don’t get the job. I know apprenticeships are training programmes, but certain individuals lack the confidence and skills to communicate themselves well. There should be training and guidance in place before you sit these young adults in front of employers. Hancock’s response was:  “The very best people to tell everyone about apprenticeships are apprentices themselves”.

The debate covered many topics including: the wider perception of apprenticeships, professional accreditation, a national body to represent the voices of apprentices, and addressing the ongoing issue of stereotyping and gender imbalance in apprenticeships. The latter being a good point in case. I was sat in a room full of apprentices where the clear majority were young males - we need to ensure opportunities are for both men and women.

I also strongly believe that schools now have a legal responsible duty to focus on these schemes and promote them alongside other career options. It was an invaluable experience for me and the opportunity to participate in the debate alone increased my self-confidence. It was exciting and inspiring to see the next generation of professionals! 

Landmark Information Group hires eight young apprentices

Landmark Information Group has appointed eight apprentices to join its 430-strong workforce. Following an extensive interview and selection process, the apprentices will all be undertaking a 12-month Landmark apprenticeship programme designed to equip them with the skills necessary to progress in the industry.

Five of the appointments were made in partnership with the apprenticeships provider QA Apprenticeships, and are designed to combine employment with government funded training. Two were made through Exeter College and one was made through the provider BPP.

Apprenticeships form a vital part of the Government's plans for economic growth and education reform to provide greater opportunities to young people. For each apprentice, the scheme therefore provides a structured framework to learn skills that will launch them into the world of work. 

Jay Cardona-Martin and Farouq Sulaiman are undertaking a QA Apprenticeship in Professional Sales, Sarosh Khalid is undertaking a QA Apprenticeship in Business while Jack Shepherd and Daniel Butler are taking a QA Apprenticeship in IT Systems & Networking. Emily Stephens will be working in the Accounting team and Elliot Crawford and Todd Allen will be also working in IT. All of the apprentices will receive on the job training as well as dedicated training courses provided by QA Apprenticeships, BPP and Exeter College. There will be regular assessments and feedback sessions, allowing the apprentices to develop within the industry. The eight apprentices will be paid a full time salary and will be given the same extensive opportunities as any other member of the Landmark Information Group team.

 
Jack, Daniel, Elliot and Todd will receive a Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles. Emily will receive her AAT level 2 qualification. Jay and Farouq will receive a Diploma in Sales and Sarosh will receive a Diploma in Business Administration.

Greg Bryce, Commercial Director at Landmark Information Group, said: “The interest we had in these positions, coupled with the high calibre of the candidates, demonstrates the extent to which apprentice schemes are an increasingly important way for young people to get their careers off to a flying start. We’re delighted to have Jack, Daniel, Jay, Farouq, Emily, Elliot, Todd and Sarosh on board and part of the team. All eight were highly impressive throughout the selection process and above all demonstrated a hardworking and proactive attitude. We look forward to helping them grow their careers at Landmark.”

Dee Fox, Recruitment & Employment Manager at QA Apprenticeships, added: “We are very pleased to welcome Landmark Information Group and their QA Apprentices onto our award-winning programme. Apprenticeships have a key role in the Government’s renewed focus on employability and employer needs in mainstream education. It is great to see an employer like Landmark making such a positive move for their future by taking control of their staff development and training.”