Today, women are increasingly successful across industries, including the real estate industry, demonstrating prowess as both investors and professionals. They are shaping the industry through various roles, from property development and construction to sales, marketing, and investment. Team SheAtWork is honored to host an exemplary guest from the real estate industry, Dr. Ananta. S. Raghuvanshi; she is the Founder & Chairperson NAREDCO Mahi, the women’s wing of the real estate industry association – NAREDCO under the aegis of Ministry of Housing & Urban affairs. She is also Additional Independent Director on the Board of Share India Securities Ltd. A seasoned real estate leader and women’s rights advocate with over 30 years of corporate experience, Dr. Raghuvanshi is truly an empowered woman icon.
Ques. What are the challenges that women face in the Real Estate sector?
Ans. About 15-20% of women are placed in Real Estate companies, but unfortunately, less than 1% reach corner offices! Most women step out of their homes to earn respect and financial independence. Now, I believe, skill and will – are the twin challenges for women in leadership, especially in the real estate sector. If women are willing to put in the effort to upskill themselves, irrespective of their position in the company, there is no stopping them. Real estate is a sector where continuous upskilling and learning are imperative. Every year the sector welcomes a new change, and you have to remain extremely adaptable in order to grow in this sector.
Home is usually the primary responsibility of women – including elder care and child care. Hence it is the woman’s will to re-arrange personal duties and strive to reach the top while concurrently balancing the home front as well. Hence, I say, skill and will – both are needed to reach top spots in the real estate sector.
Ques. How can we shatter the ‘maternity break penalty’ for women?
Ans. Indeed it is not easy for most women to join back work after their maternity break. Luckily, I had unwavering family support which helped me get back to work even after I had embraced motherhood. However, if women do not have great family support, they can opt for day-care services or even choose work-from-home! The scenario is improving and many organizations are sensitive to the needs of employees who have stepped into the motherhood zone. Minute changes and efforts make a huge impact and
Ques. Have you ever faced gender discriminations in your career path?
Ans. Since there is very little space on the top rung in the Real Estate industry, there was immense competition, and whether a man or woman, whoever I was competing against, the situation wouldn’t have changed much. If one is competent and possesses values that are in sync with the organization’s needs, I do not think that navigating the equally intelligent boys club is very difficult. The core mantra should be ‘strategy over stereotype’. I believe, if I could do it, so can you!
Ques. Do you have any message for young women aspiring to enter the Real Estate industry?
Ans. I was very young when I got into this industry and I continued honing my academic C.V. while working and parenting a child as well! So, the key is time management and managing emotions so as to accept whatever comes your way. Never blame anyone else for what you face on your career path. You should have the grit and courage to shoulder that responsibility.
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