GirlGang Focuses on Building Community for CRE Women

It was a chance meeting at the 2015 ICSC conference in Las Vegas that led Gabrielle Simon Everett and Michelle Kleger to bond over the lack of female connections in commercial real estate. They decided to do something about it: co-host an event in New York for the CRE women they knew. The success of that gathering set them on the path toward establishing GirlGang, an organization which now numbers 1,700 women across the U.S.

Connect CRE put some questions to Everett and Kleger on the intentions and methods behind Girl Gang. Here’s what they told us:

Q: Why was it important for you to start an organization like Girl Gang?

A: Being in the real estate industry, a historically male-dominated field, highlighted the importance of starting an organization like GirlGang. We realized how personal and necessary it was to build a network where women could connect, support each other, collaborate on deals, and rise through the ranks together. By creating this community, we aim to break barriers and uplift one another in an environment where that support is often lacking.

Q: What is different that Girl Gang offers from other CRE associations out there?

A: What sets GirlGang apart from other industry associations is its focus on supporting women both personally and professionally. The CoFounders, who have led the organization for over 8 years, handle every aspect of its operations. Their warmth and enthusiasm are evident in everything they do, from emails to in-person events. Walking into a GirlGang event feels like instant acceptance, a refreshing contrast to the often sterile networking environments of other associations.

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self starting out as a woman in the CRE industry?

A: One piece of advice we would give our younger selves is to never hesitate to ask questions—whether it’s about something you don’t understand, seeking one-on-one time with a superior, finding mentorship, or connecting with peers. Embrace professional curiosity; it will help you build a strong foundation for your career.

Q: What should we expect in the future from Girl Gang that we should look out for?

A: Expect so much from GirlGang in the future! We’re launching a virtual community where members can connect beyond in-person events, expanding into new cities, and continuing to grow our membership benefits. Along with job opportunities and discounts to industry events, members can look forward to even more exciting perks. Stay tuned!

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