How to get a job at Cushman & Wakefield
20 real interview questions, insider tips on the hiring process, and what Cushman & Wakefield actually looks for. Most people read about it. Very few practise for it.
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Your question
“Tell me about yourself and what makes you a strong candidate for this role.”
About Cushman & Wakefield
Company overview
Cushman & Wakefield is a leading international real estate services company with major UK presence, providing solutions across leasing, sales, valuation, occupier solutions, and capital markets.
Based in London with offices throughout the UK and globally, Cushman & Wakefield advises institutional investors, corporate occupiers, and developers on property strategy. The firm combines global resources with local market expertise.
Cushman & Wakefield is recognised for market leadership, client focus, and innovation in real estate services.
Inside the company
Culture & values at Cushman & Wakefield
Cushman & Wakefield values client success, collaboration, and professional excellence. The firm fosters a dynamic environment where professionals are encouraged to develop expertise and build client relationships. They invest in people development and mentoring.
The firm is committed to diversity and creating a workplace where talent can thrive.
Why people want to work here
Work on major property transactions; develop specialist expertise; structured training towards RICS qualification; exposure to diverse property types and client bases; advancement to senior roles; competitive compensation.
What to expect
Working at Cushman & Wakefield
The working environment at Cushman & Wakefield reflects the property sector — structured but dynamic, with a mix of planned project work and responsive tasks. Most roles involve regular collaboration with colleagues across different teams and functions, with clear expectations for deliverables and timelines. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are increasingly common, and the organisation recognises that different roles require different working patterns.
As a 4,800+-person organisation, Cushman & Wakefield sits at a size where you can genuinely know people across different departments. Teams tend to be close-knit, and there's a real sense of shared purpose. You'll likely have more visibility with senior leadership than you would at a larger employer, which means your contributions are noticed and your ideas can reach decision-makers more quickly.
The culture at Cushman & Wakefield shapes how the day feels beyond just the work itself. Colleagues describe the environment as one that values Valuation Expertise and Commercial Acumen. Lunch breaks, team socials, and informal catch-ups are part of the rhythm — Cushman & Wakefield recognises that building relationships across the organisation is as important as the deliverables themselves. Most employees report that the people are one of the best things about working here, and that the team dynamic makes challenging work feel manageable.
The hiring journey
Cushman & Wakefield interview process
Cushman & Wakefield's recruitment process focuses on identifying talented professionals with commercial awareness and client service orientation. Process typically includes assessments and interviews.
Application & Screening
1-2 weeksCV and application form reviewed for qualifications and relevant experience
Aptitude Assessment
1 weekReasoning tests and commercial awareness assessments
First Interview
30-45 minutesPhone or video interview with a surveyor covering motivation and technical knowledge
Second Interview
45-60 minutesIn-person or video interview with a manager assessing commercial expertise
Case Study or Technical Exercise
1-2 hoursMay include a valuation exercise or market analysis task
Recruitment ongoing with intake points for graduates typically in autumn. Application-to-offer typically 4-8 weeks.
Insider tips
Research current UK property market trends and Cushman & Wakefield's transactions; demonstrate understanding of valuation methodologies; show interest in specific property types; prepare examples of analytical experience.
Stand out from the crowd
What Cushman & Wakefield looks for
Valuation Expertise
Understanding of valuation methodologies including DCF and comparable approach. Ability to justify valuations with evidence.
Commercial Acumen
Understanding of property investment and lease structures. Ability to advise clients on strategic decisions.
Client Service Mindset
Genuine focus on understanding client needs and delivering solutions. Ability to build relationships.
Analytical Capability
Strong numerical and analytical skills. Ability to process complex market data and identify trends.
Market Awareness
Knowledge of property markets and economic drivers affecting real estate.
Real questions asked
Cushman & Wakefield interview questions
20 questions sourced from real Cushman & Wakefield candidates. Practise answering them out loud before your interview.
- 1What recent property transaction in the UK market has caught your attention?
- 2How do you stay informed about property market trends?
- 3Tell us about your experience with valuation
- 4Why are you interested in commercial real estate?
- 5Describe a situation where you presented complex data to non-technical stakeholders
- 6How would you approach valuing an unfamiliar property type?
- 7What factors would you consider when advising on an investment decision?
- 8Tell us about a time you worked on a project with tight deadlines
Your career here
Growth & development at Cushman & Wakefield
Career progression at Cushman & Wakefield follows a relatively clear path for most roles. Promotions typically depend on demonstrating increased responsibility, deeper expertise, and leadership capability — whether that's leading teams, managing clients, or driving technical innovation. The organisation values both specialist depth and the ability to take on broader management responsibilities, so there are usually multiple progression routes available. Don't assume you need to move into management to advance — many property organisations increasingly recognise and reward technical and specialist career paths.
Cushman & Wakefield invests in structured learning and development programmes, including access to training courses, conferences, and professional certifications. Many employees report that the L&D budget is generous and genuinely encouraged — not just a line in the benefits package that nobody actually uses. Whether it's technical upskilling, leadership development, or industry certifications, there's real support for continuous learning. While formal mentoring programmes may vary across departments, the culture generally encourages learning from more experienced colleagues. Building relationships with senior team members is one of the most effective ways to accelerate your development — seek out people whose career trajectory you admire and ask them for advice regularly.
For real estate services professionals, Cushman & Wakefield offers exposure to projects and challenges that build a strong CV whether you stay long-term or move on after a few years. The skills and experience you gain — particularly around Valuation Expertise and Commercial Acumen — are transferable across the property sector and beyond. Internal mobility is possible for strong performers, with opportunities to move between teams, departments, or even locations as your career develops. Many senior leaders at Cushman & Wakefield started in entry-level or early-career positions, which speaks to the genuine career development opportunities available.
Compensation
Salary & benefits at Cushman & Wakefield
Graduate surveyor: £26,000-£29,000. Senior surveyor: £48,000-£68,000. Associate: £63,000-£83,000.
Notable benefits
How they hire
What it's like interviewing at Cushman & Wakefield
With 4,800+ employees, Cushman & Wakefield doesn't hire in massive volumes, which means each vacancy gets focused attention. You're less likely to be processed through an impersonal system — expect more direct interaction with hiring managers earlier in the process. The flip side is that roles may appear less frequently, so when a position opens, move quickly with a strong application.
The interview culture at Cushman & Wakefield balances professionalism with personality. They're assessing whether you can do the job and whether you'll fit the team — both matter. Come prepared to demonstrate Valuation Expertise and Commercial Acumen through specific examples, but also be ready for more open-ended conversation about your ambitions and what motivates you.
Life at the company
Work-life balance at Cushman & Wakefield
Cushman & Wakefield offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements for most roles. The specifics vary by team and function — some roles are predominantly remote, others require regular office presence — but the overall direction is towards flexibility. This isn't just policy on paper: employees generally report that managers support flexible working in practice, not just in the handbook.
The overall pace at Cushman & Wakefield is shaped by real estate services cycles and business priorities. Most employees report a manageable workload with occasional busy periods tied to project deadlines or seasonal demand. The company increasingly recognises that sustainable performance requires sustainable working patterns, and there's a genuine effort to support employee wellbeing alongside commercial objectives.
Roles they hire for
Popular roles at Cushman & Wakefield
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications does Cushman & Wakefield expect for graduate surveyors?
Cushman & Wakefield typically recruits graduates with a degree in surveying, property, or related fields. A 2:1 or above is expected. Candidates must be willing to work towards RICS qualification, which Cushman & Wakefield supports and funds.
How long does it take to become a qualified surveyor at Cushman & Wakefield?
RICS qualification typically takes 5-7 years after graduation. This includes completion of the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence. Cushman & Wakefield provides support including mentoring and exam fee reimbursement.
What property sectors does Cushman & Wakefield specialise in?
Cushman & Wakefield advises across all major property types including office, retail, industrial, residential, healthcare, and hospitality. You'll have opportunity to develop expertise in specific sectors.
Does Cushman & Wakefield offer secondment or rotation opportunities?
Yes, Cushman & Wakefield offers opportunities to work in different teams, offices, and international locations. Rotations provide broad experience and international secondments are available.
What is the typical career progression at Cushman & Wakefield?
Typical progression is: Graduate Surveyor > Senior Surveyor > Associate > Senior Associate > Director. Timeline depends on performance and experience. The firm supports development at each stage.
How does Cushman & Wakefield support diversity and inclusion?
Cushman & Wakefield is committed to diversity and has mentoring programmes and flexible working options. The firm actively works to increase representation, particularly in senior surveying roles.
What is the work-life balance like at Cushman & Wakefield?
Work-life balance at Cushman & Wakefield varies by role and team. Most employees report a reasonable workload with flexible working options available for many roles. Like any organisation, there are busier periods, but the overall culture supports sustainable working patterns.
Does Cushman & Wakefield sponsor work visas for UK roles?
Visa sponsorship at Cushman & Wakefield may be available for specialist roles. Check their careers page or contact their recruitment team directly to confirm whether the specific position you're interested in offers sponsorship. Immigration policy changes can affect eligibility, so verify current requirements with Cushman & Wakefield's HR team during the application process.
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