Q&A with Emma Nielson

Emma Nielson
Mike West Leavenworth Realty

Emma Nielson

Mike West Leavenworth Realty

What inspired you to start your business or pursue your current career path? How has your initial vision evolved since you started?

I pursued real estate to help people achieve their dreams of home ownership, and I also really enjoy seeing all the different types of homes and architecture in our area. 

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a woman in your industry, and how did you overcome it? How do you think these challenges have changed in your industry?

The biggest challenge I have faced in real estate didn’t have much to do with being a woman, but more so my age. I got my real estate license when I was 18. It can be hard to gain clients’ trust at such a young age. The best way to overcome that is to prove your knowledge and commitment in your career. 

Describe a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your leadership style. How would you describe your leadership style now?

During difficult transactions, you learn to navigate different obstacles that come up along the way. This has allowed me to help other agents who come across the same obstacles. 

How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life? What strategies or support systems have you found most helpful?

Keeping a balance in this industry can be a challenge as we need to be readily available to help our clients when needed. However, it is very important to take time for things outside of work, especially when it comes to family life.

What advice would you give young women aspiring to enter your field? What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting?

Take the leap and keep faith that everything will work out. As long as you stay consistent in your work, you will be successful. 

How has mentorship played a role in your career as a mentee or mentor? How do you approach mentoring others in your current position?

Having a good mentor is extremely important. I am so fortunate to have had such a patient, supportive, and encouraging mentor to help me every step of the way, as well as an office full of agents who are always willing to help. It makes a huge difference having supportive colleagues standing behind you. I would not be where I am today without them. 

What strategies have you found most effective for building and maintaining professional networks? How has networking changed with the rise of social media and digital platforms?

Communication is extremely important in this business. You are already a step ahead if you are responsive and continue to communicate with all parties throughout a transaction. Following up is your best tool!

In your experience, what key skills or qualities have contributed most to your success? How do you continue to develop these skills?

I would say that good organization and communication skills have contributed most to my success. Having an agent who is on top of everything is very beneficial as a buyer/seller. 

How do you stay innovative and adapt to changes in your industry? Share an example of how you've successfully navigated a major industry shift.

Our business is ever-changing. The best thing we can do for our clients is to stay up to date with current changes and learn how to apply and embrace those changes moving forward. 

What initiatives or changes would you like to see to promote gender equality in the business world? How do you personally contribute to advancing these initiatives?

I feel very fortunate that I have gone into a field where I feel that gender and equality are not an issue. I feel like more importantly, if you put in the hard work, good things will happen.