Principal, DSB Property Management
Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?
I wouldn’t say I had barriers. To me a barrier would stop something and I wasn’t going to be stopped. It was more like obstructions or humps in the road. Ones, that you would work your way around or over.
Yes, there were a few. Being a new kid on the block (so to speak) up against the big, branded agencies, a single middle aged female starting a new business from scratch. I had to show how and why I and DSB Property Management would be different. I am a firm believer in actions speak loader than words and each obstacle placed in front of me, made me more determined to go through it and show my worth.
How can we encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship or senior leadership roles in their careers?
Personally, I believe you must have passion for what you are doing or want to do. When you find that passion, then you can build your dream. I must admit, it can be hard and scary and you will want to give up….Just Don’t Give Up! and don’t let others dampen your dream and vision.
What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?
Create a plan on what it is your choosing to embark on. Speak to someone for insight and guidance. Join women’s groups, networking groups, get a business coach, and build your dream. With your passion, you will work through it.
No matter how hard times get, just don’t give up.
Any other notes you might wish to have mentioned?
When I started my business, I had a $5000 credit card, I printed flyers and presentation booklets and every day, I would pick an area in Hervey Bay and walk the streets doing letter box drops with the flyers. I would then door knock businesses that I felt would assist me with growing my business, banks, home loan companies etc. It’s not easy and with persistence it will pay off. DSB Property was born in May 2015 and still going strong.