Lead Kindly, But Lead Strong: Mastering Women Leadership

Have you ever found yourself caught between trying to be the “nice” leader while also driving results? It’s a familiar struggle for women leadership in real estate, often feeling the pressure to conform to outdated stereotypes. 

We’re told we need to be nurturing and supportive but also assertive and decisive. It can feel like an impossible balancing act. In this Real Estate Woman Podcast episode, we tell you how to master your leadership to drive effective results. 

Women Leadership

I’ll never forget the time I was leading a team through a particularly challenging transaction. Emotions were running high, and tensions were rising. Instead of bulldozing through the conflict, I took a step back and listened to everyone’s concerns with empathy and understanding. 

By creating a safe space for open communication, we were able to find common ground and reach a solution that worked for everyone. Not only did we close the deal, but we also strengthened our team’s bond and built trust.

Lead With Kindness

That experience taught me the power of empathetic assertiveness – a leadership style that combines compassion with strength. It’s not about being “nice” or “tough.” 

It’s about leading with kindness while still being clear, confident, and results-oriented. How you can cultivate it to achieve your goals as a woman leader in real estate?

The Leadership Tightrope: Balancing Strength & Warmth

Women in leadership often face a unique set of challenges. We’re expected to be nurturing and collaborative yet also decisive and authoritative. 

Society often labels us as either “too nice” or “too bossy.” It’s a tightrope walk that can leave us feeling unsure of how to show up authentically.

But here’s the secret: You don’t have to choose between being kind and being strong. The most successful women leaders have mastered the art of blending both qualities. They lead with empathy and warmth while also being assertive and confident in their decision-making. This is the essence of empathetic assertiveness.

Empathetic Assertiveness

Empathetic Assertiveness allows you to:

• Build strong relationships: By understanding and acknowledging the needs and perspectives of others, you foster trust and collaboration.
• Navigate conflict effectively: You can address issues directly and honestly while still maintaining respect and compassion.
• Inspire and motivate your team: By showing empathy and understanding, you create a positive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

The Power of Empathy in Real Estate

Empathy is often seen as a “soft skill,” but in the world of real estate, it’s a superpower. It allows you to connect with clients on a deeper level, understand their needs and motivations, and build lasting relationships based on trust.

Empathy can elevate your real estate game in many different ways.

• Building Trust & Rapport: When clients feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to trust you and your expertise. This trust is the foundation of any successful client relationship.
• Skillful Negotiations: By understanding the other party’s perspective, you can find creative solutions that meet everyone’s needs, leading to win-win outcomes.
• Transforming Feedback: Negative feedback can be tough to hear, but with empathy, you can see it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Lead Kindly: Actionable Tips for Cultivating Empathy:

Give your full attention to the person speaking without interrupting or judging. Ask clarifying questions and reflect on what you hear to ensure understanding.

Put yourself in your client’s shoes: Imagine yourself in their situation and try to understand their perspective. What are their concerns, hopes, and dreams?

Instead of blaming or accusing, express your feelings and needs assertively. For example, say “I feel frustrated when…” or “I need you to…”

By practicing empathy, you’ll not only become a better leader but also a more successful real estate professional.

The Strength of Assertiveness in Real Estate

Assertiveness is often misunderstood as aggression or pushiness. But true assertiveness is about communicating your needs, opinions, and boundaries in a clear, direct, and respectful way. 

It’s about standing up for yourself and your team while still maintaining positive relationships.

Debbie’s Story: The Power of Women’s Leadership

When I first entered the real estate industry, baby in tow, I knew I needed guidance to navigate this exciting but often daunting world.  

I sought out two incredible women in my office who were thriving in their careers while also raising families. Mary Krantz and Anne Orris became my mentors, teaching me invaluable lessons about assertiveness, communication, and leadership as a woman.

Their guidance helped me develop the empathetic assertiveness that has become a cornerstone of my success.

Mentorship can be a game-changer for women in real estate. It provides a safe space to learn, grow, and gain the confidence you need to overcome challenges and reach your full potential.

Finding a Mentor

So, how can you find a mentor who leads kindly and has the best characteristics of a woman in real estate? 

Look for successful women in your office, network, or industry organizations who inspire you. Don’t be afraid to ask for their advice or guidance. Many successful people are happy to share their knowledge and experience.

Be respectful of their time, be open to feedback, and actively apply what you learn. If you’re struggling to find a mentor, consider hiring a coach. A coach can provide personalized guidance and support as you develop your leadership skills and navigate the challenges of the real estate industry.

Become The Leaders You Want to Be

Remember, you don’t have to choose between being kind and being strong. As women in real estate, we have the power to embrace both qualities and lead with empathetic assertiveness.

Don’t be afraid to seek out mentors and coaches who can help you develop your leadership skills and reach your full potential. Remember, you have the power to lead kindly, lead strong, and achieve extraordinary success in the real estate world.

And if you’re ready to take your career to the next level, I invite you to book a free strategy session with Monter Coaching.

Let’s explore how you can harness the power of empathetic assertiveness to achieve your goals and become the leader you were born to be.