The Power Of Women Supporting Women In The Multifamily Industry

Founder of Vive Funds, a unique multifamily investment firm specializing in curating high-quality assets for our investors.

In the multifamily real estate space, the importance of women supporting women cannot be emphasized enough. As the industry continues to evolve and embrace diversity, the collective strength and collaboration of women can become vital ingredients for success.

By fostering an environment of empowerment, mentorship and solidarity, we can forge a path toward gender equality, break down barriers and create opportunities for one another. Supporting and uplifting each other not only cultivates individual growth and achievement but also catalyzes a shift in the industry, driving innovation and shaping a future where women thrive alongside their male counterparts. A rising tide lifts all boats!

As I began my journey in multifamily, I benefited from many people who took the time to mentor me and helped add rocket fuel to my career trajectory. Here are some ways women can provide guidance to others.

Establish networking circles.

I have found immense value in creating and joining networking circles. These circles provide a supportive space where women can connect, share experiences and seize opportunities together. Through regular events like meetups, webinars, panel discussions or workshops, we empower and encourage each other to thrive.

One of the most rewarding moments for me is witnessing a new circle member land their first deal. The sense of pride and accomplishment is truly indescribable. To develop your own networking circles, I recommend following a few key steps.

1. Define the purpose of the networking circle. Whether it’s a general group, one focused on fundraising or addressing work-life balance, clarity in purpose helps guide the activities and discussions.

2. Set up a platform. Effective communication is crucial. Choose a platform that suits your circle, such as a physical location, an online forum or a social media group. This ensures seamless interaction and engagement among members.

3. Create community by building a welcoming and inclusive environment. Encourage active participation and establish guidelines for respectful communication. It’s important to empower members to speak up, especially new ones who may initially feel hesitant. By extending a welcoming hand, you can help them forge their path to success. Make sure to also encourage collaboration among members, whether through introductions, business partnerships or projects.

4. Provide resources and support. Sharing valuable resources like articles, books, podcasts or online courses can greatly benefit members in their entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, offering support and mentorship opportunities within the network fosters growth and development.

5. Promote the networking circle. Spread the word about your circle in order to attract interested women. Utilize social media, industry networks, online communities and word-of-mouth referrals to reach out to potential members.

It’s important to note that the specific implementation of these steps may vary depending on the context and objectives of your networking circle.

Offer mentorship programs.

Those who have established themselves in the multifamily industry can initiate programs specifically designed for women. These programs can match experienced women with emerging professionals, providing guidance, advice and support. Mentorship is a rewarding way to not only give back but also for your personal growth.

I have personally found that the mentorship I received early in my career has been incredibly beneficial. My mentor helped me navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with starting a career and helped me expand my professional network—connecting me with opportunities and introducing me to key individuals in my field.

To make the most of a mentorship program, I believe that it must be approached with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Actively engage with mentors by asking questions, seeking feedback and discussing goals and aspirations.

Share your success stories.

There is power in sharing our success stories and experiences. Whether it’s through industry conferences, webinars, podcasts or blog posts, women can inspire and motivate others on their own journeys by sharing their individual stories.

Facilitate educational opportunities.

Organize and participate in workshops, seminars or webinars focusing on skill-building and professional development for women in the multifamily industry. These events can cover leadership, negotiation, financial analysis and property management. You can also build out educational online courses for people to work through at their own pace and have a forum for them to ask questions.

In my company, we prioritize employee development through webinars and seminars. Additionally, I actively take part in various events and podcasts to educate and inspire others in real estate and entrepreneurship and also to connect with like-minded professionals and exchange ideas.

To replicate this, focus on creating and participating in networking and knowledge-sharing platforms. By prioritizing practical learning and fostering collaboration, you can gain actionable knowledge for your real estate endeavors.

Women have the opportunity to create a more inclusive and diverse industry that benefits everyone involved. Through their collective efforts, they can challenge gender biases, break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of women to thrive in this traditionally male-dominated domain. Women supporting women in the multifamily real estate space not only enhances individual success but also promotes equality and progress in the broader society.

Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?