LEADING LADIES OF REAL ESTATE
Canapes and Conversations levels up in 2024
BY ISABELLE WALKER
Across September and October , Leading Ladies of Real Estate held its annual Canapes and Conversations events throughout Australia . There were four events held with close to 750 attendees across four states . between men and women in real estate : “ We have that customer service , the empathy , we know how to listen , it comes naturally to us . So take advantage of that and speak to as many people as you can .”
Pru Kelly emphasised that effort pays off : “ If you ' re prepared to do the hard work , do it time and time again - that ' s all that matters .”
The networking was designed to bring women in the industry together and share their stories of thriving in a typically male-dominated workplace .
Here ’ s a summary of the event ’ s tips , advice , and standout quotes from successful women in the industry , alongside the lessons they imparted for aspiring female real estate professionals .
Nyree Ewings of LJ Hooker Property Centre emphasised the importance of building relationships : “ It ’ s about nurturing genuine and authentic relationships , and building advocates for later . Activity breeds activity . Work with the community and form connections for the right reasons - for the purpose of the sale .”
2 . Self-advocacy and breaking barriers
This theme of challenging norms resonated with many speakers , highlighting the ongoing need for women to assert their value confidently and demand their deserved space .
Ray White Concierge CEO Kelly Tatlow
4 . Leadership through empowerment
Leading lady Brynja Berndsen from Ray White SA | NT
Key themes and takeaways
1 . Relationship building and authenticity
Carla Fetter , a director at Jellis Craig Armadale , highlighted the importance of nurturing client relationships , remarking , “ If you put [ clients ] on the database and don ’ t take care of them , you won ’ t get their business .” For Carla , relationships drive repeat business , as clients tend to return due to trust and familiarity .
Emily Richardson of Ray White Rockhampton emphasised focusing on long-term goals and building a “ brand within a brand ."
Jasmyn Calgaro , top sales agent at Ray White Nepean Group spoke on the point of difference
Pru Kelly , EA to Alexander Phillips , director of real estate powerhouse PPD , stressed the importance of being in an environment where you thrive : “ Find a mentor and find an office you actually want to work in and surround yourself with likeminded people .”
3 . Leveraging confidence and finding your voice
Alisha Hobart , a REIV Committee member and auctioneer , shared her struggles with confidence in the male-dominated field of auctioneering . She reminded attendees , “ Your voice is not a tool ; it ’ s an instrument . Learn how to play it .”
Lyndsey Douglas , communications specialist and founder of Writes Who , spoke about her program which is aimed at building confidence and authenticity . She emphasised self-assuredness , noting , “ my goal is to make you so memorable that you very comfortably know who you are .”
Jasmyn Calgaro : “ I had some amazing male agents to look up to and I thought if they can do it , I can do it and put my own flair on it .”
As a leader , Carla Fetter takes pride in helping her team achieve their potential , sharing , “ All I want is for my team to be the most successful they can be .” Her approach reinforces the idea that leadership is not just about personal success but also fostering the growth of others .
Sally O ’ Neill from Belle Property Hope Island encouraged teamwork , stressing , “ teamwork counts , and girls have to stick together .”
Bec Turner from Ray White Marsden and Olivia Daw from Ray White Brookwater & Greater Springfield