Property was not the only running theme, though. Each role brought with it a heavily male-dominated environment — not that this was at the forefront of my mind. I didn’t know any different and have been lucky to work with many male colleagues, clients, mentors, and professional partners who have taught me so much, and many of whom I now consider friends.

Early in my career, however, when I first started coming into London regularly to host and attend networking events, I did initially find myself covering up more, dressing to blend in with the sea of (male) grey suits, and being notably less forthcoming with my opinions than I otherwise would be. I’m still not sure why I felt this was necessary, or if anyone but myself made me feel compelled to do so, but I was certainly avoiding being too overtly feminine or standing out.

Thankfully, I got over this quite quickly due to the inspiring women I met at various meetings, events, lunches and MIPIM trips. I connected with many lawyers, architects, interior designers, agents, and lenders, to name but a few. Some favouring traditional business attire and no makeup, and others with a flair for fashion and the ability to get through a whole day of meetings in five-inch heels. All knowledgeable, charismatic and operating at the top of their game, while maintaining their own character, opinions and style. These women inspired me to look and act however I felt most comfortable and to truly be myself. I learnt that authenticity was the key to forging meaningful business relationships, with men and women alike.

•   'Seeing is believing. We need more female role models in our industry who represent and expand what is possible'
•   'Promoting the relevant courses at the earliest possible stage is vital in encouraging more women into the finance sector'
•   'There are still many industry events taking place where there is a minority of women on panels'

Over my nearly 10 years in the property industry, it’s great to see an increase in female representation. There’s still a way to go — particularly, in my experience, when it comes to development, investment, finance brokerage and land roles. I still regularly attend events, lunches, and black-tie evenings where I am one of just a handful of women in the room — or the only woman at the table. I’m pleased to be part of the progress though, no matter how nominal, and to see female attendance on the rise. Feeling like the ‘token female’ can induce impostor syndrome, but it’s worth remembering that a drive to fill diversity quotas may get you a ‘foot in the door’, but it’s your knowledge and relationship skills that will keep you in the room.

I have been fortunate that my time thus far as a woman in property has been wholly positive, however I know some of my peers have had a very different experience. Looking to the future, I am conscious that young women entering roles that don’t involve regular networking may not be exposed to such a diverse sample of the property industry as I was. For women starting out in a male-led office, while their male colleagues can be of equal importance in helping them in their careers, I do think it’s important to see more regular media coverage of woman in leading roles to help combat the ‘glass ceiling’ effect.

My one piece of advice? Build your digital footprint (social media presence) then network, network, network. There are several young professionals and women in property/finance/construction groups that can offer a friendly launch pad into networking. Through attending these, you will likely find a wing-woman/man from a firm offering services to team up with and attend subsequent events together. There is a vast support system of kind professionals in the industry, both men and women; forging relationships with the right people is key.

Are you a woman in the financial services industry keen to get your voice heard? Contact press@medianett.co.uk — we would love to chat!