The transformative power of mentorship in commercial real estate
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Mentorship is more than a professional relationship—it’s a transformative experience that can alter the trajectory of careers and industries alike. As we observe National Mentoring Month this January, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the profound impact mentorship has on professional growth, especially in industries like commercial real estate (CRE), where representation in leadership remains a persistent challenge.
I’ve had the privilege of being a mentor through IndyCREW’s Mentoring Program, where I was paired with Jacinda Johnson, a talented and ambitious business development representative at August Mack Environmental. Together, we explored her aspirations, tackled challenges, and identified strategies to help her unlock her full potential. Jacinda has shared that this partnership was rewarding for her, but I’ve been deeply appreciative of how enriching it has been for me.
“Having Brandi as my mentor has been a game-changer,” Jacinda shared. “She challenged me to think bigger about my future and approach my career with renewed confidence and strategy. Her guidance has been a source of clarity and empowerment. Plus, she’s been able to help me deepen my engagement within IndyCREW to serve the organization in a greater capacity. It’s been a triple win!”
Jacinda’s words underscore why mentorship is essential, particularly for women in CRE. According to a 2022 report from CREW Network, while women account for 36.7% of the CRE workforce, only 9% occupy C-suite roles. This disparity reflects an urgent need for initiatives like IndyCREW’s Mentor Program, which aims to dismantle barriers and nurture the next generation of leaders.
The value of mentorship isn’t confined to individual growth—it has ripple effects across organizations and industries. A study by the Association for Talent Development found that 75% of executives attribute their career success to having had a mentor. For industries like CRE, mentorship provides a platform for sharing knowledge, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering equitable leadership opportunities.
My experience mentoring Jacinda taught me that mentorship is not a one-sided exchange—it’s a partnership. While I was offering guidance, I was also learning from her perspective, her energy, and her unique approach to problem-solving. It reminded me that mentorship is as much about listening as it is about leading.
“As someone who initially questioned the true value of mentorship, I now understand its profound impact after being a mentee,” Johnson shared. “The guidance, encouragement, and perspective I gained through this experience have been pivotal in shaping my confidence and career direction. Mentorship isn’t just advice—it’s a key to unlocking potential and building resilience.”
Programs like IndyCREW’s Mentoring Program are invaluable in advancing diversity and inclusion in CRE, but their success hinges on a collective commitment from professionals across the industry. We all have a role to play in ensuring that the future of commercial real estate is shaped by a wide range of voices and perspectives.
As we celebrate National Mentorship Month, I urge my peers to think about the mentors who shaped their journeys and how they can pass that gift along. Whether you’re guiding someone just starting their career or supporting a peer in navigating new challenges, mentorship has the power to build stronger professionals and a stronger industry.
Jacinda captured it best: “Mentorship isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about creating connections that inspire growth and resilience. I’m grateful for the impact Brandi has had on my career, and I hope to pay it forward by becoming a mentor myself.”
Let this month serve as a reminder of the transformational potential of mentorship. Together, we can cultivate a culture where leadership is accessible, inclusive, and driven by collaboration, ensuring a brighter future for commercial real estate.