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Empowering through empathy: The women’s leadership advantage

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As part of International Women’s Day, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of female leaders in the real estate industry. Women are breaking glass ceilings, bringing unique perspectives and reshaping the landscape of real estate.

At the forefront are the empathy, collaboration and effective communication we bring to the table — attributes that not only define successful leaders but also foster a more inclusive and dynamic industry.

Real estate has historically been a female-centric industry. It’s allowed women to have flexible schedules, and integrate work and family life.

At The Agency, we’re intentional about making sure female voices are heard and amplified. In fact, half of our leadership team and 71 percent of staff overall are female. It’s about more than representation; it’s about harnessing the power of diverse perspectives to drive innovation and excellence across the board.

Empathy

Empathy lies at the heart of effective leadership, and it’s a quality that many women skillfully embody. Real estate is a people business. Agents are tasked with helping to curate lifestyles, manage dynamics, and set expectations in highly emotional transactions.

Empathy serves as a guiding force, allowing agents and leaders alike to understand the needs and concerns of clients, colleagues and communities. Female leaders bring a depth of empathy that fosters trust and builds lasting relationships — a crucial element in a relationship-driven industry like real estate.

Collaboration

Collaboration is another cornerstone of successful leadership, and women excel in creating environments where teamwork thrives. By embracing diverse viewpoints and valuing each team member’s contributions, female leaders cultivate a culture of inclusivity and creativity. It enhances productivity but also leads to better ideas and outcomes.

Effective communication

Effective communication is the glue that holds teams and deals together. Female leaders are adept at articulating vision, goals, and strategies in a way that inspires people, creates clarity, and builds culture. Whether it’s negotiating deals, mediating conflicts, or providing guidance to clients, their clear and empathetic communication style fosters understanding and builds consensus.

Women in real estate are champions — and they deserve to be celebrated not just this month, but every day. They have built the industry to be what it is and continue to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future.

By embracing and amplifying female voices, we can create a real estate industry that truly reflects the diversity and richness of the communities we serve.

Rainy Hake Austin is president of The Agency in Los Angeles. Connect with her on Instagram.