March 8th marks a pivotal day in our global calendar: International Women’s Day (IWD). Since its inception well over a century ago, IWD has evolved into a celebration of the remarkable achievements of women across social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. It’s a call to accelerate gender equality worldwide. This year’s IWD theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” is a reflection on the journeys and lessons learned by women in many fields.
This year, in a groundbreaking move, IREM® has made history by establishing yet another all-female Officer Team and its very first all-female Leadership Team. In honor of International Women’s Day 2024, we asked these 2024 IREM President Libby Ekre, CPM®, 2024 IREM President-Elect Dawn Carpenter, CPM®, and 2024 IREM Secretary/Treasurer Mindy Gronbeck, CPM®, CCIM, to shed light on their experiences in real estate management.
What advice would you give your younger self as a woman launching a real estate management career?
Libby Ekre: Be bold and courageous – because you got this! Real estate cycles are tough, but you’ll make it through. Stay focused on people and enjoy the journey, be proactive, and do a good job – that’s your best word of mouth.
Dawn Carpenter: Do not get easily discouraged when a door closes.
Mindy Gronbeck: When reaching for your goals and aspirations don’t take a “no” as a closed door. The no is for that moment in time but not forever. It just means “not yet,” so keep moving forward in going after what you want.
What have you learned that you wish you knew sooner?
Libby Ekre: That giving notice to clients who are not good fits for your culture is the best decision. You won’t regret it, and your employees will thank you for it.
Dawn Carpenter: Catch and release. Some clients are not good for you, know when to let them go.
Mindy Gronbeck: That if I admired another woman in real estate, I should reach out and say so. If they are receptive, I would offer to buy lunch or coffee so I could ask them about their journey and see what I could glean from the conversation. I think most women in leadership would gladly sit down and discuss and offer guidance for those coming behind us!