Clare Coe, co-founder of Madison Berkeley, on how she got started in the property industry. She also shares her cultural tips, her number-one travel destination and the most ridiculous fact she knows.
How did you join the property industry?
I was interested in real estate from a young age and I used to love coming to London and seeing all the buildings and architecture. This led me to study real estate as a degree at the University of Reading. I initially thought I wanted to be a surveyor. However, early on in my career I decided that surveying was not for me, but I did not want to leave the profession. That is when I found real estate recruitment, and the rest is history!
What does your job entail?
I bring together property and people. People are the greatest asset to any business and I love that my job entails making those crucial matches. My business partner and I founded Madison Berkeley Real Estate Recruitment on values we believe in: responsiveness, honesty, professionalism and displaying integrity in all that we do – and I think our clients respond to that. We go the extra mile to really get to know the people we work with, and this enables us to make far better cultural matches between employers and candidates than our competitors.
What do you like most about the property industry?
The great thing about working in property is definitely the people. It is a very social industry and I enjoy meeting and getting to know our clients and candidates and building long-term relationships.
And what do you dislike most about it?
The lack of diversity in the industry. It has been a slow-burning issue, but 2021 feels like the year in which employers across the board are taking action to do something about this.
What do you want to change about the property industry?
To continue to work with clients to help them facilitate cultural changes that will shape the future of our industry.
What barriers or challenges have you overcome?
In an industry that is just 13% female, I am exceptionally proud of the fact that Madison Berkeley has placed 50:50 females to males since we launched more than three years ago.
What are you most proud of in your career?
Leaving a secure and stable role to co-found a successful real estate recruitment business with another female whom I respect and admire.
What do you value in people?
Integrity, loyalty and a good sense of humour!
What advice would you give someone starting a career in the property industry?
Do not let yourself become pigeonholed in one area of real estate. There are so many avenues to consider. Follow what you are passionate about and there is no doubt you will be successful!
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