IWD 2019 #balanceforbetter
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March and this year, IWD’s theme is #balanceforbetter. The idea behind the slogan is to remind that the better the gender-balance in work life - the better world itself.
Here at CBRE Finland, our gender balance looks quite good with circa 60% of our employees being female, 40% male. Within team managers the numbers are even more balanced: 50-50. We asked some of our newly promoted/ appointed colleagues – could we then say true boss ladies - Linda Anttila, Emma Kaksonen, Miia Mäkinen and Krista Ruigendijk to share their thoughts on the matter.
Based on your experiences, how do CBRE support employees’ (women and men) career paths and #balanceforbetter?
“First of all, I think the gender doesn’t play any role in employees’ career paths at CBRE, and that is a strong statement for #balanceforbetter. Based on my experience everyone is treated equally and the career development is based on employee’s skills and ambitions.” Linda
“I have been with CBRE almost 6 years, started as part-time junior analyst and have just been promoted as Associate Director with manager responsibilities. CBRE has been very supportive with my career path and I’m very thankful for that. In CBRE, your voice is always heard and CBRE takes care of its employees. We have very open, innovative and balanced work environment.” Emma
“In my opinion, CBRE is very fair employer for both women and men. A great example of this is that we really do have equal number of women and men in manager level positions. I’ve been here for 4 years now and I have witnessed that gender or gender quotas haven’t had anything to do with promotions but it’s all about who is the most capable person for the job.” Miia
What does #balanceforbetter mean to you?
“For me it’s very important to keep my work and private life in balance. Working with the Capital Markets sometimes means hard work and long hours, however, when your life is in balance (private life, sport and other activities), you feel powerful and strong. Almost a superwoman who can do whatever she wants.“ Emma
“#Balanceforbetter means to me that the right person is chosen for a position.“ Krista
As women, what could we do to better support each other in business life? Do we need to support each other in the first place?
“Yes, us women could and should definitely support each other more. Based on my experiences women tend to suffer from impostor syndrome (huijarisyndrooma) just way too often and that’s when peer-support from other ladies could do magic. Also, we should always remember that it’s not a competition against others and someone else’s success is never away from you. I feel so happy that at CBRE our ladies are very supportive towards each other and I feel privileged to get to work with talented colleagues (men and women) from whom I can learn every day.” Miia
“A concrete way could be to setup or join your own women’s networks within and outside your organizations. Examples of these are CBRE women’s network, account specific networks or networking organizations within or outside CRE world. You will not only grow your network and be able promote yourself (and your company), but you will often find support in peers struggling with similar career challenges.” Krista
“There is never too much support that us ladies can give to each other. It’s very important to share your knowledge and learn from others – it’s never away from you. Always keep your mind open and never judge others. And ladies, stick together, but don’t forget the men either - every strong woman sometimes needs a superman.“ Emma
What kind of tips would you give to a young woman starting her career?
“Treat everyone with respect. Be curious and keep your mind open. Recognize what is important in your life. Work hard but ask for help – you don’t need to do everything yourself.“ Linda
"Never give up! There will be ups and downs during your career path, but never give! Always remember to believe in yourself and the things that you do." Emma
“Believe in yourself and your capabilities – if you don’t, others won’t either. Take a chance on an amazing opportunity, if it feels right. If it doesn’t, pass it - even if it is a step up. The right thing will come along.” Krista
“Cliché or not but Be the change you want to see in the world. And a concrete tip: don’t dress for the job you have – dress for the job you want. 😊“ Miia
Thank you, ladies! And all the lovely women out there, have a lovely Women’s Day! <3
Linda Anttila, Associate Director, Capital Markets
Emma Kaksonen, Associate Director, Capital Markets
Miia Mäkinen, Head of Marketing and Communications
Krista Ruigendijk, Head of Occupier Services