Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London’s commitment to nurturing female leaders in real estate on International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements, calling for positive change in advancing women, and campaigning for accelerated gender parity.
The IWD theme for 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion”. One of their missions for the year is to “Forge inclusive work cultures where women’s careers thrive, and their achievements are celebrated.” IWD quotes Research from Lean In showing that bias contributes to overlooking women for jobs and promotions, and 20 percent of women say they’re often the only woman in the room at work.
Time for Change
Real Estate Balance’s survey revealed that between 2016 and 2020, 40% of females worked in UK real estate as entry-level to middle managers, highlighting that traditionally, males dominate the real estate industry, particularly in sales.
Nicola McGrath, Head of Operations at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London, is seeing a positive change in the industry stating, “I have had the pleasure of seeing many more women join this industry and prove themselves to be some of the best negotiators and managers.”
The world of estate agency now sees women holding prominent positions on the boards of large property companies and heading up both lettings and sales teams.”
- Helen Hitchcock, Lettings Manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London.
Since 2015, the number of women in C-suite positions in the workforce has increased from 17 to 28 per cent. There are signs to indicate change on the horizon, and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London wholly supports it.
Inspired Women, Inspiring Women
Despite making up almost half of the UK workforce, research by the Institute of Leadership and Management found that three quarters (73%) of women believe there are barriers preventing them from progressing to the top levels of management.
Currently head of operations at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London, McGrath has risen to senior leadership. Within five years of her career, she managed departments, and 24 years into her career, she continues to grow. She explains, “I’m proud to be part of the senior management team, the decision making and the company's growth.”
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London's Commitment
At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London, we are committed to fostering gender equality and celebrating the achievements of women in the real estate industry. From world-class coaching to global opportunities and competitive salaries, we support women's professional development. McGrath says, “I am proud to work for a company that has over 50 per cent of its senior staff as women, proving that gender should not play a part in employment decisions but finding the strongest team to achieve the wider goals.”
Advice and Inspiration
Succeeding in the real estate industry requires dedication and focus. Two senior leaders at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London share their best advice. Hitchcock notes the importance of building a network, striving to do more, and being honest.
McGrath said, “Success often requires resilience, persistence, and perseverance. Stay focused on your goals, learn from failures and setbacks, and keep pushing forward even in the face of a challenge. It’s hard work and a tough job, but with a great team and the right attitude, it is very rewarding.”
An Inclusive Future
Research by Lean In finds that in 2023, for every 100 men promoted from entry-level to manager, 87 women were promoted. Dedicated to closing that gender gap, we are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women in the real estate industry and nurture future female leaders.
Whether you’re starting your career or are a property professional, when you join Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London, expect world-class training, an inclusive environment, and a family-feel agency.
Find out how you can support the missions of International Women’s Day.
Join Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices London today and build your career.
