To mark this year’s International Women’s Day on 8th March, PrimeResi asked female leaders from across the property sector to share a piece of advice they wish they had received when starting their careers.

The responses from some of the UK’s top real estate agents, designers, developers, marketeers and lawyers were in equal measure powerful, heartfelt and inspiring – urging their younger selves to trust those gut instincts, refuse to be invisible, and remember that originality is cool, so stop trying so hard to fit in.

Words for life for the next generation of property pros, and truly invaluable insights for all of us.

Stay curious

Victoria Garrett

Savills Head of Global Residential (ex UK)

“My advice to my younger self would be to surround yourself with people you respect and can learn from.

“Stay curious and keep learning and developing.

“Make sure you are passionate and enjoy what you do.”

Fully embrace those historic moments

Becky Fatemi

Executive Partner at Sotheby’s International Realty UK

“I wish I had realised at the time that we were shaping London’s super-prime landscape.

“I wish I had known that all my hard work would eventually pay off and that women like me would one day be leading in the boardroom. It would have given a younger Becky so much more confidence and allowed me to fully embrace those historic moments.”

Ignore those who tell you to say ‘no’ to taking on additional responsibility

Phillippa Dalby-Welsh

Savills UK Board Director & Head of Country House Department

“Some people will tell you to say ‘no’ to taking on additional responsibility – ignore that, put in the extra time & effort and don’t doubt its worth. The experience gained will pay dividends in a much broader sense later on.”

It’s not just about the job title or salary – it’s about finding a place that truly fits who you are

Sarah McIntyre

Lettings Director, Harrods Estates

“When you’re looking for the right company to work for, it’s not just about the job title or salary – it’s about finding a place that truly fits who you are. That’s why it’s worth digging into a company’s mission statement and values to see if they align with your own. After all, work takes up a huge part of life, so it’s important to spend that time somewhere that feels right.

“Surrounding yourself with like-minded people in a company that stands for something meaningful can make all the difference. It’s not just about career success – it’s about feeling motivated, inspired, and genuinely happy in what you do. When your values match those of your employer, work stops feeling like a grind and starts feeling like a purpose.”

Staying true to the path and become a specialist

Olivia McSweeney

Senior Director of Lettings at Sotheby’s International Realty UK

“I wish I had known earlier how the lettings market would evolve, with the rise of a respected super-prime market. In the early years of my career, lettings was often undervalued within some of the companies I worked for, and I was frequently encouraged to switch to sales.

“However, I’m grateful for having built my expertise from the ground up, staying true to my path, and becoming a specialist in my field.”

Go with your gut more often

Camilla Dell

Managing Partner, Black Brick

“Your gut instinct is a gift. So often we make decisions that are the wrong ones when our gut told us differently, so learn to trust and go with your gut more often. Be braver. Fortune favours the brave and by taking some risk the rewards will be more than you could ever imagine.

“Don’t feel bad for taking time out to spend with family, especially your children, who won’t stay babies forever and will grow. Find a mentor. Running a business is hard. Finding someone to help inspire and challenge you and encourage you to view things differently can make a big difference.”

Make quick, decisive choices

Nina Harrison

Haringtons UK

“I began working in 1985 and entered the property industry in 1994. Naturally, times have changed enormously since the mid-1980s, and the dynamic between men and women is almost unrecognisable today. However, I wish I had realised back then that all the self-assured, outspoken men I worked with were just as capable of making mistakes as I was – yet, for some inexplicable reason, they seemed entirely untroubled by it. Anxiety, it seems, was a largely female affliction back then, and for me it has taken years to shake off.

“I suspect that most men were just as nervous as I was and would have gladly relinquished their seemingly automatic right to be the one in the room making all the decisions. That said, I also learnt that it is perfectly acceptable to stride in and make quick, decisive choices – provided you are very clear on how to backtrack and correct a mistake when necessary. I have learnt that floundering or presenting a barrage of options achieves nothing.”

You will never know what you are capable of until you step out of your comfort zone

Laura Dam Villena

Head of London Residential Agency, Cluttons

“Many women underestimate their abilities, holding back from jobs or promotions.

“The reality is you will never know what you are capable of until you step out of your comfort zone. It’s at this point you allow yourself to grow, build confidence and thrive.”

Be brave

Lesley Cairns

Managing Director at Hamptons

“Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back, be brave, believe in yourself and embrace every opportunity that comes your way.

“Keep learning and take something positive from every situation, even the mistakes!

“Most importantly, believe in yourself, be authentic, enjoy the journey and don’t forget to have some fun along the way!”

The fear you feel in challenging moments is temporary

Emma Fletcher-Brewer

Partner at Knight Frank & Head of City and East New Homes, London

“I wish someone had advised me to look ahead more at the start of my career – to focus beyond the immediate challenges and to maintain perspective. From those early days I’ve learnt that career development naturally builds over time—each experience strengthens your capabilities and reinforces your self-assurance.

“The uncertainties that seem overwhelming at first, gradually transform into the foundation of your expertise. Maintaining composure under pressure is crucial; the fear you feel in challenging moments is temporary, but the professional resilience and confidence you develop will remain with you throughout your career journey.”

Prioritise growth over perfection

Chelsea Whelan

Regional Partner at Knight Frank

“Accept that you very much belong and believe in yourself, luck didn’t get you here – hard work and determination did – give yourself the credit you deserve. Keep that with you as you journey through your career, hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Enjoy what you do, do it with confidence and with a smile on your face – the journey is always more important than the destination.

“Create opportunities for yourself by showing curiosity and willing, by saying yes to opportunities that came along it opened so many doors for me along the way, and if opportunities don’t come along then ask for them – don’t be complacent, as soon as you feel ‘comfortable’ then take on another challenge. Prioritise growth over perfection.”

Feel the fear and do it anyway

Catherine Westerling

Head of Lettings at Hamptons

“Life is unpredictable, and whilst you can’t always control what’s ahead you can control how to respond. Uncertainty often breeds fear, but as you grow you will come to recognise fear without allowing it to stand in your way. Overcoming fear requires courage and strength, but the more of it you encounter the more courage and strength you’ll build.

“Remember, birds never worry about landing on a rotten tree branch because they know their own wings will save them if the branch fails, and it’s the same for us. When we push through fear we develop resilience, compassion and self-belief and those valuable leadership qualities will see you through even the most challenging times.

“So embrace the unknown and, as your wise friend Kate once said, feel the fear and do it anyway. You never know what good awaits you on the other side of fear.”

Embrace your authentic self

Anna Ambrose

National Head of Lettings at Strutt & Parker

“Be true to yourself. Feeling the pressure to ‘fit in’ in a male-dominated industry can be challenging, but maintaining an alternative persona is exhausting and unsustainable. Embrace your authentic self and have the confidence that there’s space for you to succeed as you are.

“It’s incredibly important to build a network of people who will support you in this – in particular, I’d always recommend finding a mentor who will both advocate for you and be a useful sounding board as you progress.”

If in doubt, the answer will always present itself

Polly Ogden Duffy

Managing Director at John D Wood & Co

“Learn to trust your gut instinct – it’s rarely wrong. Also, if in doubt, the answer always presents itself – just give it time.”

Your journey is your journey

Karen Standing

Head of PRS and Build to Rent at Hamptons

“Don’t be afraid to be honest and vulnerable. Believe in yourself (always), don’t compare. Your journey is your journey. Things happen the way they do for us to learn, reflect, and grow as a person and always take something positive from the experience.  Be inspired by others and do the best the best you can for you and others.”

Originality is cool

Hattie Brandon

Marketing Manager at Butler Sherborn

“Perseverance is the art of continued effort and determination. This is one of your key strengths, so utilise it and leverage it. By following your passion and channelling your true creativity, this will bring you more joy than you realise. Originality is cool. Always remember to follow your gut and never doubt yourself, great things will come of it!”

Read the news every morning

Helena Moyas de Forton

Managing Director, Head of EMEA and APAC, Christie’s International Real Estate

“One piece of advice I wish I had received when starting my career is the importance of reading the news every morning.

“Now, as the head of Christie’s International Real Estate in Europe and Asia-Pacific, it’s critical that I know what’s going on in different real estate markets, so I have a list of publications I review every day to ensure I make well-informed and strategic decisions.”

The industry, much like life, moves in cycles

Robin LaSure

Vice President, Global Communications at Leading Real Estate Companies of the World

”Looking back on my 30+ years in the property sector, one lesson stands out: the industry, much like life, moves in cycles.

“The key is to embrace change with curiosity and a willingness to adapt. Staying open to new ideas and shifts in the market, technology, and consumer preferences makes it possible to keep moving forward, no matter what stage the cycle is in.

“It’s about staying curious, asking questions, and never settling for what you already know. Building strong relationships and sharing knowledge creates a foundation that lasts, even when the market doesn’t look the same as it did a year ago.”

Trust the process

Hannah Aykroyd

MD, Aykroyd&Co

“Believe in yourself and trust the process. Give your absolute best, so you can always hold your head high, knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect the interest of your clients. They will remember.”

Talk to strangers more

Anna Barker

Director and Co-Founder at R3Location

“My advice would be to talk to strangers more – networking is so valuable, and your greatest opportunities often come from those you don’t yet know. I’d also say that being successful isn’t about being the smartest, best dressed, or hardest working, it’s about being genuine, approachable, and embracing a ‘we, not me’ mindset.

“It’s also so important to follow your instincts, and to not be afraid to say ‘no’ to opportunities that you feel aren’t the right fit. In these situations, it helps to be bold enough to be honest and explain why it’s not right for you, and to always ensure to keep the door open for any future discussions.”

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Samantha Scott-White

Cotswold Buying Agent

“Trust your instincts: Your gut feeling is often a valuable guide when making decisions in the property industry. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts, but also do your due diligence.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help: There’s no shame in seeking advice from mentors or colleagues when you’re starting out. Learn from their experience and use it to inform your own decisions; Stay focused on your goals: It’s easy to get distracted or sidetracked in a fast-paced industry like property. Set clear goals for yourself and stay focused on achieving them; Take care of yourself: The property industry can be stressful and demanding, so it’s important to prioritise your health and well-being. Make time for self-care activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies.”

Be kind to yourself

Gemma Maclaran

Cotswolds Advisor at Middleton Advisors

“Believe in yourself and your abilities—confidence is key to success. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas, contribute to discussions and embrace new challenges. Self-belief and assertiveness will empower you to grow and thrive in your career.

“Networking is invaluable in building a strong professional path. Cultivating meaningful connections can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable industry insights and support long-term career progression.

“Prioritising work-life balance is essential. Set aside time each week to focus on your well-being, whether that’s exercising, practising yoga, or enjoying dinner with friends. Taking time to recharge outside of work will enhance both your productivity and overall well-being.

“For those juggling family life, remember to be kind to yourself. It’s impossible to do everything and at times things will inevitably slip through the cracks. You may be late for a match or forget a school event, but don’t be too hard on yourself—you’re doing your best, and that’s what truly matters.

“Establish boundaries by setting aside dedicated, uninterrupted time with your family. Turning off your phone for an hour each evening allows you to be fully present, ensuring quality time without the distractions of work. Finding balance is not about doing it all—it’s about making intentional choices that benefit both your career and personal life.”

‘Successful’ people don’t try and conform or seek approval

Lili Oliver

Buying Agent at Oliver Roth

“Shift the focus to spend more time looking inwards than outwards! Whilst I was fortunate to have had decades without social media telling me how successful and ‘perfect’ everyone else was, my competitive younger self from day one had eyes on how ‘well’ all those around me were doing. Early on in my career, this need to always try and be as good, if not better, than those around me, was my main driver. Having started my career in an international law firm, I had the delights of tangible benchmarks: salaries, client wins, promotions to Partner etc that made it very easy to focus only on the world around me. By focussing more on the outside, the perception of success becomes warped.  Instead, I wish the focus earlier on had been about setting my own personal goals, objectives and sense of success, rather than always looking around me. On a daily basis this is something I try and encourage with my own young daughters: it doesn’t matter that everyone else did better in their maths test…you did a lot better than last time!

“Spending more time looking inwards, enables us to be true to one’s own sense of self and values and ultimately makes for a far happier and fulfilling career.  When I do look around me, those who I truly respect as being ‘successful’ in their careers have such an incredible amount of authenticity that I can now see comes from shifting the focus inwards.  They don’t try and conform or seek approval.”

Stop trying so hard to fit in

Jenny Naylor

Graf London

“OMG, how I wish I could shake my younger self and tell her to stop trying so hard to fit in. You don’t get ahead by blending into the background – you get ahead by being brave, challenging the norms, and daring to do things differently. The biggest leaps in my career didn’t come from playing it safe; they came from taking risks, putting forward new ideas, and being willing to fail in order to find success.

“Surround yourself with people who champion your ambitions, but don’t avoid those who challenge you – they will force you to sharpen your thinking, test your ideas, and grow in ways you never expected. The real estate industry doesn’t need more people following a well-worn path. It needs innovators, disruptors, and those who see potential where others don’t.  So stop second-guessing yourself. Speak up in meetings. Ask the difficult questions. Take the opportunities that scare you. Because the sooner you realise that standing out is your greatest strength, the sooner you’ll start carving out the career you actually want – not the one you think you’re supposed to have.”

Don’t just wait for opportunities—build them yourself

Priya Rawal

Founder of The Luxury Property Forum and co-host of The Real Rendezvous Podcast

“Stop waiting for permission. No one is coming to hand you opportunities—you have to create them. If something isn’t working, don’t sit back and hope it changes. Pivot, adapt, and take control. Step into the room with confidence, be in the spaces where decisions are made, where the right conversations are happening—because if you’re not there, someone else will be.

“But success isn’t just about individual drive –  build a community around you. Surround yourself with people who uplift, challenge, and inspire you—those who push you forward and share their wisdom freely. Listen closely, learn by osmosis, and absorb every lesson you can.

“And don’t be afraid to fail. Some of the biggest breakthroughs come from failing upwards—learning, evolving, and coming back stronger. Too often, women are conditioned to fear failure when, in reality, it is the most powerful tool for growth. When I founded The Luxury Property Forum, it wasn’t because I had the perfect plan, but because I saw a gap in the industry and knew I had to act. I didn’t wait for permission—I created the space myself.

“So to my younger self, and to any woman starting her career today: step into your power, own your space, and refuse to be left out of the conversation. The women who lead aren’t always the best behaved or the most experienced—they are the ones who refuse to be invisible. Don’t just wait for opportunities—build them yourself.”

Be the boldest, bravest, version of yourself

Naomi Heaton

Founder of LCP Private Office and The Other House

“When you hit a roadblock, look for a way round and you will usually come up with a better route than before. Trust your instincts about people and plans, they will usually be right. Don’t post-rationalise your way out of it. Reach for the stars you and won’t come up with a handful of mud. This is a paraphrase from Leo Burnett, eponymous founder of the first ad agency I worked for after I graduated, and it’s true.

“Be the boldest, bravest, version of yourself, believe in who you are and what you do. It will mean you always stand out and it will take you furthest. There is far too much vanilla in business. Don’t feel you have to conform or fit into a corporate environment. Corporate speak usually means ‘talking the talk’ without ‘walking the walk’.  Being true to yourself, will be more interesting, intriguing and set you apart. Being different is what makes you stand out. Be tuned in to what people want, their needs and their aspirations. This is key to both innovation and selling ideas or products effectively.  Never forget it, or you will lose their trust. Trust is the foundation of any successful business.”

Understand the bigger picture

Emma Dreike

Founding Director, Ebury Comms

“Always make sure you understand the bigger picture. When starting out in your career, it’s often very difficult to gain perspective on the wider and overarching objectives that your day-to-day work is contributing to.

“Looking back, I think that at times I felt I was working in silo rather than in line with the rest of the team. In part, this is the responsibility of company leaders to ensure that all of their staff from the CEO to the intern understand what their company stands for, what they are collectively trying to achieve and how everyone is going to achieve the end goal.

“Equally, the onus should also be on employees; I wish my younger self had asked more questions and pressed leaders to explain the wider company raison d’etre from the outset.”

Resilience will be your greatest ally

Wan-Sheong Yau

Partner at Studio Moren

“First and foremost, believe in your talent and vision. There will be moments when you doubt yourself, but remember that your creativity and perspective are your greatest strengths.

“Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, take risks and push boundaries. The architectural world needs your innovative ideas and bold designs. Seek out mentors who inspire you and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Their support will be invaluable as you navigate the challenges ahead.

“Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Each achievement is a testament to your hard work and dedication. And when you face setbacks, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Resilience will be your greatest ally.

“Lastly, stay passionate and curious. Your love for architecture is what brought you here, and it will continue to drive you forward. Embrace every project with enthusiasm and never lose sight of why you chose this path.”

There’s a lot to learn from watching and questioning

Tina Qiu

Director, PLP Architecture

“If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to listen – properly listen – to the senior principals around me. Not just to what they say, but to how they operate, how they handle clients, and how they tackle challenges. Take in both their wins and their mistakes.

“You don’t need to follow their path exactly, but there’s a lot to learn from watching and questioning. Put yourself in the room, stay curious, and sharpen your own approach. The most valuable lessons often come from simply being present and paying attention.”

No one starts as an expert

Venetia Rudebeck

Co-founder at Studio Vero

“My biggest fear when I started was always about getting it wrong. It’s hugely intimidating starting out in any job and the fear of making an error often meant I held back from contributing at all. But over time, I realised that professionals are just amateurs who have learned how to recover gracefully from their mistakes. No one starts as an expert – expertise comes from experience, and experience comes from trying, failing, and learning.

“We always say to the team that to make mistakes is human – owning them is what really matters. Nothing earns more respect than quickly admitting an error and taking responsibility for it. I wish I’d been given the same advice when I began my career in design!”

It’s all going to be fine

Helen Marsh

Partner Residential Property at Forsters

“My advice to my younger lawyer self would be: Get involved. Ask questions. Ask for help. Don’t suffer in silence. Stop being so scared! It’s all going to be fine. (With a big smiley face).”

Always do it with integrity and honesty and make sure you have fun along the way

Meriam Lock-Necrews

Head of Residential at Battersea Power Station Development Company

“Never worry about what others are doing – don’t compare yourself – just focus on what you are doing and do it to the best of your ability; and remember, always do it with integrity and honesty and make sure you have fun along the way! This will stand you apart. The rest will come.”

Celebrate the small wins

Enna Luo

Sales and Marketing Director at Excel Winner

“It’s important to believe in your unique perspective: speak your truth, trust your voice and don’t be afraid to share your mind when disagreeing with others.

“Real estate has long been a male-dominated industry and this year’s International Women’s Day theme – ‘Accelerate Action’ for gender equality – serves as a powerful reminder to trust your judgement, particularly when saying no to something that doesn’t feel right. It’s also about supporting other women who are navigating similar challenges. Every small step forward contributes to meaningful change.

“To my younger self, I would say: celebrate the small wins – you don’t have to change the whole game overnight! Pursue genuine passion and let your true interests shape and guide your career, rather than chasing titles or higher salaries at the expense of your authenticity and staying true to yourself.”

Enjoy the innocence, invest your time in a good network and mentorship

Marie-Julie Gheysens

MD, Ghelamco

“It is ok not to know what is ahead of you. It makes you live in the moment and embrace growth and bold ideas. You take risks unconsciously as you are not shaped yet by experience. Enjoy the innocence, invest your time in a good network and mentorship. Knowledge fast tracks wherever you see yourself.”

Self-doubt can be the biggest obstacle

Canan Wood

Director, Relocation Services, Short Lets & Private Home Search at Hamptons

“One piece of advice I wish I had received when starting out my career is to trust myself more and confidently own my space. Our industry can be competitive and intimidating at times but self-doubt can be the biggest obstacle.

“Confidence doesn’t have to come from knowing everything but believing in yourself and that you are capable of learning. I’ve managed to succeed through my results and affirmations via the strong relationships I have made over the almost two decades of experience in the industry.  Had I received this advice sooner who knows what I may have been capable of.”

The true key to success is experience

Anna Masello

RE Branding & Marketing Director at The One Atelier

“When I first entered the world of real estate, I believed that great design was the defining factor in creating extraordinary living spaces. While beautiful design is undoubtedly essential, I soon learned that it is only one piece of the puzzle. The true key to success in branded residences—and prime real estate more broadly—is experience.

“The most successful projects go beyond architecture and beautiful aesthetics to offer a personalised way of living. One defined by exceptional services, wellness and access to exclusive experiences. If I could give myself one piece of advice when I was starting out in property, it would be to focus on how a development makes people feel, not just how it looks.

“Wellness, in particular, has become a key aspect of branded living. Today’s buyers expect more than just a gym or spa—they seek a holistic environment that enhances their physical and mental well-being. This means integrating everything from biophilic design and natural materials to personalised wellness programmes, private retreats and innovative health technology. Wellness isn’t just a trend—it is the foundation of modern high-end living.

“In short, this is my conviction: It’s not just about where you live—it’s about how you live.”

Your career doesn’t have to follow a straight line

Sarah Kelly

Executive Director – Prime Residential, SPF Private Clients

“My advice to my younger self is, so it happens, advice that I have had all along from my parents, but I have never really listened to. My parents are forever telling me to slow down and take my time and it’s only now I am in my 40s I realise how important this is.

“Your career doesn’t have to follow a straight line accomplishing goal after goal. It will twist, shift and evolve over the years, and that’s ok. Everyone’s journey, both in and out of work, is different, so don’t feel that you have to compare yourself to others.

“And finally, focus on your own growth and celebrate the wins along the way, whether that’s a big promotion or a small but meaningful success.”

You deserve that seat at the table

Kate Donneky

MD, Rhodium

“I have two simple words…Self. Belief. Your intuition isn’t ‘just luck’, it’s expertise you have earned through dedication and insight. Despite sometimes being the youngest person at the boardroom table, or the only female in the room, your opinion and judgement is just as important as everyone else’s. You deserve that seat at the table! Trust in your abilities. You know more than you realise and you’re constantly growing, even if you don’t always see it. Someone once said to me, ‘Maybe you don’t notice your progress because you’re always raising the bar.’ Take a moment to step back and reflect on how far you’ve come.

“Remember, being pushed out of your comfort zone and taking on new challenges is the only way to grow and flourish. You are stronger than you realise!”

Turn every challenge into a stepping stone for growth

Patricia Casaburi

Founder & CEO of Global Citizen Solutions

“When I started my career, I quickly realised how male-dominated industries including the property sector could be. While progress has been made, especially in leadership roles, women in business and particularly those launching start-ups or seeking investment, still face barriers that shouldn’t exist. Opportunities, funding and support must continue to flow to female entrepreneurs, not just in recognition of their potential but because diverse leadership drives innovation and success.

“International Women’s Day is a reminder but the real work happens all year round. To any woman stepping into the business world, I would say what I’d tell my younger self: trust your vision, stand firm in your decisions and turn every challenge into a stepping stone for growth.”

Don’t worry if you don’t yet know your exact pathway

Zara Barrow

Build Director at Croudace Homes

“Don’t be afraid to be yourself. If you try to be someone or something you’re not, it will make things ten times harder for you. Also, don’t worry if you don’t yet know your exact pathway – things can shift and change, and you need to adapt to both your personal growth and the evolving world around you.”

Take interesting and adventurous breaks outside of work

Claire Whisker

Founder, First In The Door

“Use your time wisely: Most people are never going to have as much time and energy as they do in their 20s. So, throw yourself into your work, and take breaks and challenge yourself outside of work too. When you’re young, you have the advantage of being able to sustain long hours at work while you forge a new business or focus all of your attention on demanding business goals.

“This becomes harder as we get older, with increased responsibility typically with children and ageing parents to look after. Remember to take interesting and adventurous breaks outside of work and develop your hobbies too… climb that mountain with friends, improve your forehand and go sailing for the weekend!”

Networking gets easier

Lesley Treacy

Head of ESG at Dandara

“Attend as many events and networking opportunities as you begin your career – although it may feel daunting at first – it gets easier, and soon you’ll start to recognise faces. It’s a given, but don’t be afraid to ask questions. This will enable you to learn the perspectives of other teams and departments. Additionally, try to get placements in different parts of the business when you are starting out, even if it’s for a few weeks. This will help you understand drivers and form relationships, making it easier to pick up the phone if you have a question.”

Invest in your online profile

Kimberley Gates

Karis Capital

“I would say first, and foremost relationships are key so invest in them above all else. After over a decade in the property industry I am in recent years starting to reap the rewards of the time I spent early in my career investing in fostering a depth and breadth of connections and breeding goodwill along the way by connecting as many people as possible together. I would go to most events and talk to anyone and everyone from the car park to the boardroom! You never know where people will end up or what they are working on.

“Naturally as you get busier in later career you become more selective in where you spend your time, but I think I am only able to be so today because I prioritised networking in earlier years and really put myself out there at every opportunity. I do wish I’d recognised the benefits of replicating the efforts I put into relationships and networking in person into the online format also earlier.

“Via LinkedIn I can reach far larger and geographically dispersed audiences that I ever could in the same time frame in person. Don’t be afraid to start documenting your ideas, interesting aspects of your role and industry insights online as early as possible – investment in your online profile will keep you in the forefront of people’s minds.”

Do not take NO for an answer

Rayna Hunter

CEO of LH1 Global

“Be prepared to work hard to achieve your goals, do not take NO for an answer and always remember that Failure is Not an Option! Work Hard and Dream Big…!”

Your unique power is you

Caroline Comer

Sales & Marketing Director at Comer Homes

“To celebrate the highs as well as the lows in the property industry and to believe in myself and to trust my abilities and to have confidence in my decisions. Be brave, and follow your passion, and don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing your dreams and taking risks. Your unique power is you and continue to be a strong woman always.”

Say yes to new experiences

Lauren Atkins

MD of The Malins Group

“You don’t have to have it all figured out – just take the next step with courage. Your biggest achievements will come from your tenacity and unwavering determination.

“Say yes to new experiences; even if the initial outcome isn’t as you expect, they’ll shape your story in ways you can’t imagine yet.”

People want to work with – and for – people they like and respect

Jules Cowan-Dewar

Chief Marketing Officer, Cabot

“The mantra ‘work hard and be nice to people’ will only become more meaningful as your career progresses. People want to work with – and for – people they like and respect, so continue to be kind and generous but know that you can be both those things and demanding at the same time. You have big ambitions and there will be setbacks, but your determination will serve you well in the years to come.”

Accept that problems will arise; instead of getting discouraged, focus on solutions

Mélie Dunod

CEO of August

“In real estate, anything that can go wrong will go wrong. It’s an industry where cutting corners is risky, you need a trusted team— from architects and builders to property managers, and local artisans—to help you navigate the challenges.

“Be flexible and accept that problems will arise; instead of getting discouraged, focus on solutions with your team.

“While we often hear about successes, they will always have come with countless obstacles along the way. The beauty of real estate is its simplicity—it’s all about knowledge, people and relationships. Something even AI can’t replace and that we need to invest in.”

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