Like many graduates starting their careers, I was both excited and nervous when I joined NJL Consulting as a Graduate Planner in September 2024. I wondered whether my master’s degree had prepared me enough for the realities of the workplace. Would I be able to contribute effectively? Would I adapt quickly to the demands of the role? 
​
Four months in, I’ve realised that starting your career isn’t about knowing everything right away, it’s about learning and being open to new experiences. At NJL, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of projects from the get-go. Each one has taught me something new- not just about planning, but about the profession, the people we work with, and my own skills and potential. Here are 4 key takeaways from my experiences so far:  
​
1. Planning is a Balancing Act 

Planning requires constant balancing, whether that’s between policy requirements, client objectives, community needs and/or environmental considerations. Every decision involves trade-offs, and understanding the bigger picture is essential.  
 
Part of my role involves assisting the team with research at every stage of the planning process, and this has really helped me understand the balancing act involved in planning. For example, while recently reviewing the housing mix for a large residential development in the north west, I navigated differing priorities between the client and Local Planning Authority. The client wanted a uniform housing mix across the whole site, but the LPA preferred a parcel-by-parcel approach to better address local housing demand. My research into housing needs and policy, combined with understanding both perspectives, helped me assist the team in finding a compromise that would satisfy both parties. 
​
These experiences have reinforced that planning is much more than technical knowledge. It’s about building relationships, managing expectations and finding creative solutions that work for everyone involved.  
​
2. Communication is Key
​
In planning, it’s not just about what you know, but how you communicate it. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far came from attending the public consultation event for a major residential scheme, which we will be submitting an Outline Planning Application for. It was eye-opening to witness just how important it is to actively listen to the community, address their concerns, and explain complex planning concepts in clear, relatable terms. The event highlighted to me how effective communication and engagement with communities can help build trust and create a constructive dialogue between developers, planners and local residents.  
​
Beyond public engagement, my experience has also involved communication with Local Planning Authority representatives and co-consultants to ensure alignment and to keep projects on track. 
 
3. Planning is an Ongoing Learning Journey 
 
The planning profession never stands still and starting my career during one of the largest policy shake ups, has shown me just how important it is to stay informed and be able to respond and adapt to changing environments.  I’ve quickly realised that planning is a profession where the learning never stops.  
​
Navigating the recent revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has been a great example of this. In my work at NJL Consulting, I’ve been involved in updating planning statements and cover letters to reflect these changes as well as preparing presentations to advise clients of the changes. This has highlighted how planners must remain flexible and proactive in responding to evolving legislation. Working with NJL Consulting has given me the opportunity to see firsthand how the team stays ahead of the curve, anticipating changes and adapting strategies for clients to ensure we remain compliant and informed. 
​
4. Variety is the best teacher 
​
One of the most rewarding parts of my role at NJL has been the sheer variety of projects I’ve worked on, and the opportunities I have already been provided. In just 4 months, I’ve been involved in everything from major and minor residential schemes to Green Belt sites, Paragraph 84 homes, and commercial projects. Whether it’s drafting planning statements, discharging conditions, carrying out flood risk sequential tests, or organising public consultation event materials, each project has presented its own set of challenges and learning opportunities.  
​
Alongside the technical side of planning, I’ve also been able to access wider opportunities that have helped broaden my understanding of the industry. Attending networking events like the Women in Property dinner, PLACE Young Things event and more recently the Women in Planning NextGen yoga breakfast has allowed me to connect with professionals and gain advice from those further along in their careers. I’ve also expanded my knowledge by attending the PLACE resi conference and webinars hosted by the RTPI, which have provided valuable discussion on key planning issues and emerging trends. This exposure to different experiences and perspectives is something I know will help me grow as a planner in the years to come. 
​
These first 4 months at NJL consulting have definitely been a steep learning curve, but they have also shown me just how rewarding and dynamic a career in planning can be. From navigating complex policy updates to engaging with communities and stakeholders, each experience has contributed to my growth as a planner. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep learning and getting involved in even more projects. Planning is always changing, and I’m grateful to be a part of such a supportive and knowledgeable team at NJL Consulting. 

If you’re starting your planning career or considering it, my advice is to stay curious, embrace every opportunity, and remember that every challenge is a chance to learn something new! 
If you’d like to learn more about our graduate and work experience opportunities, please reach out to Emily Paulson for a further chat.