Pay It Forward: "Bring A Unique Perspective To The Table." Advises Foundry Commercial's Melissa Alexander
"Talk to as many professionals in the industry as possible and find a mentor in your sector of interest."
Melissa Alexander is Vice President for Foundry Commercial in Nashville, TN. and focuses on the leasing, sale, and development of industrial properties.
What has been your biggest challenge in the commercial real estate industry and how have you overcome those obstacles/? When I started in the industry, I was on the marketing/research side. I was not aware of the potential to move into a brokerage role. As I became more client-facing, I found that I enjoyed the brokerage side of the business. Most of the time, this is a very difficult transition as a woman to move from an administrative position to producer. However, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by family, mentors, and colleagues that have believed in me and my potential along the way. This support from others (both women and men) has been encouraging and allowed me to grow within the industry.
Where would you say commercial real estate needs to improve for women? By creating a conversation around women in CRE and showcasing female thought leaders, we can keep the dialogue open and create awareness and change. A rising tide lifts all boats.
How can women better position themselves for success ? Network, Network, Network. Talk to as many professionals in the industry as possible and find a mentor in your sector of interest.
What is the best piece of advice you have received and what is your advice for the next generation? The best piece of advice I ever received was also the worst piece of advice. Someone once told me I wouldn’t make it in brokerage. I used that as reverse psychology to do my best and fight through barriers in the industry. For the next generation of women, I would recommend finding a female broker you look up to and reach out to her. We are in a relationship business, and there are so many of us out there ready to assist the next generation. All you have to do is ask!
What, in particular, can women bring to the table as the industry continues to grapple with this COVID19 crisis? Empathy and understanding. Also, women are good communicators by nature and that is what our clients and colleagues need most right now.
Would you advise your daughter to begin a career in CRE? I would absolutely support my daughter if she decided to pursue a career in CRE and help her explore any areas that might be of interest. I would advise her to network and reach out to as many CRE professionals as possible and remind her that this industry is all about perseverance and determination. I’m a little biased but I would encourage her to look into industrial. There are very few women in industrial right now, and it makes it that much easier to stand out amongst clients and colleagues and bring a unique perspective and skillset to the table.
