Using a gavel to smash the glass ceiling
BY ISABELLE WALKER
FEMALE AUCTIONEERS
Victoria boasts more female auctioneers than any other state or territory in Australia . However , the gap between male and female auctioneers still persists .
“ In addition to empathy , less ego , and some pizzazz , a female auctioneer can often bring a different perspective and a better ability to connect on a more personal level .
“ I didn ’ t step out into the arena until I felt I was ready , and that wasn ' t until my 40s . It took me quite some time but it was worth the wait .”
We asked successful female auctioneer Angela Limanis , based in Melbourne , why she thinks so few women take up auctioneering , what we can do to encourage more to give it a go , and the point of difference a female auctioneer can bring to a sale under the hammer .
Angela Limanis of Ray White Cheltenham has conducted over 250 auctions .
“ As a salesperson , I was always the penciller and the person talking to buyers so I was very familiar with the dialogue of an auctioneer and absorbed it very quickly ,” she said .
“ I believe we definitely bring a fresh approach to style and presentation , more often than not surprising the crowd when we step out , and blending professionalism with a personable touch that resonates well with diverse audiences .
“ I believe that many would like to get into the auctioneering space but self-doubt and their fears are stronger than their desire to do so - which is understandable . This was me in the early days .
“ If the drive becomes stronger , it takes passion , a lot of practice and knowing that all auctioneers started at the same place , nobody was born an auctioneer .
Angela would like to see auction training run for and by women , and make sure women are represented and present at annual training sessions run by Ray White . Providing women-only training , Angela said , might encourage ladies to come out of their shell .
“ It would show prospective auctioneers that these female auctioneers have been in their shoes , running teams , and running families ,” she said .
“ Or , at the very least , to show that it ' s not just males that have seen success in the field .”
Ray White sales performance specialist reveals secret sauce for women ’ s work life balance
BY ISABELLE WALKER
Valentina Parra excels in her field . A veteran in the real estate world , Valentina has held several positions in the agency and corporate side of the Ray White Group . Her latest role , however , is her most pioneering , after she embarked on her auctioneering career late last year .
Valentina has called 28 auctions since November , with no signs of slowing down .
She believes being a female auctioneer gives you an edge .
“ You can ’ t be what you can ’ t see - if we continue to showcase female auctioneers , more women will see it as a viable career option ,” she said .
“ It also provides more flexibility in terms of work hours and work life balance . You can make a great wage just working Saturdays - it ’ s perfect for mums who want a bit of extra income but are trying to juggle work / mum life .
“ Not only are they able to contribute to the household , but they can continue their real estate career and community purpose while their focus is still on their kids for the time being .”
Trailblazing female auctioneer proves the future is female
BY ISABELLE WALKER
In May , Georgia Turner , Ray White New South Wales state administrator and auctioneer called her first auction .
Georgia ’ s first auction was a roaring success . Along with marketing agent John Yatman , principal of Ray White Punchbowl , she helped sell 3 / 1 Lilac St , Punchbowl for $ 895,000 .
The property sold under the hammer for $ 45,000 above reserve with two bidders actively participating . The young gun auctioneer said it was an amazing experience and is excited for her next one .
“ My goal is to be a trailblazer , demonstrating that young females can excel in this role and make a significant impact in driving successful property sales ,” she said .
“ There ’ s a boundless potential for personal and professional growth - particularly as a young female auctioneer . I see each opportunity to pave the way for other women . I aim to provide a fresh and unique perspective , and I believe that diversity and representation enriches the auction experience for both buyers and sellers .”
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