Agents urged to tackle gender jaws...

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28 December 2023

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By Marc Shoffman

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The estate agency industry is being urged to do more to tackle the issue of gender jaws, it has been warned.

The gender jaws term, coined by gender balance expert Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, refers to the widening gender gap as you progress to higher levels of management.

A study by unchained.marketing comparing gender balance across various industries, has found this issue is particularly prevalent in the real estate industry.

The study reveals a significant disparity in gender representation across different levels of management in both the real estate industry and across all industries.

While the real estate sector shows a more pronounced female presence at the non-management level (71% women vs. 29% men), this balance shifts further up the corporate ladder.

Women constitute only 32% of people at board level compared with 68% representation by men. In a recent analysis of major listed estate agency brands, 75% of the board were men and only 25% women, suggesting the 'jaws' problem is greatest in the largest business, the research suggests.

In comparison, all industries combined present a less skewed yet still concerning picture. Women make up 57% at the non-management level, but their representation decreases to 40% in senior management and at the board level.

The data underscores the urgent need for effective gender balance strategies in the workplace. As the industry grapples with these challenges, the role of gender bilingualism becomes ever more crucial. Understanding and valuing gender differences and leveraging them for organisational success is a social responsibility and a strategic imperative.

Alex Tan, regional sales director for Andrews and South West regional advocate for the Women in Estate Agency group, said: “Gender Jaws are still highly prevalent in estate agencies today. The underrepresentation of women in senior positions within estate agencies persists due to systemic barriers and cultural biases.

“Traditionally, the industry has been dominated by an "old boys' network," where established connections and pre-existing relationships often favour men in climbing the career ladder.

“Moreover, societal expectations and stereotypes might deter women from actively pursuing these roles due to a lack of encouragement, self-doubt, or concerns about work-life balance.

“However, studies consistently demonstrate that companies benefit significantly from diverse leadership, and when women do ascend to senior positions, there's a marked increase in profitability and innovative thinking.

“Encouraging women to step forward, actively challenging biases, and implementing inclusive policies are crucial steps toward rectifying this imbalance and harnessing the industry's full potential.”

Simon Leadbetter, founder of unchained.marketing, added: "This new study highlights the disparities in the real estate sector and emphasises our commitment to fostering meaningful change. By bringing these insights to light, we aim to encourage industry leaders to actively participate in creating more equitable and effective workplace environments."

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- Roger Mellie
- 28 December 2023 10:15 AM
Theres not enough female bricklayers either.

- jeremy clarke
- 28 December 2023 17:55 PM
Another jobsworth with a made up "job" title that means nothing to anyone spouting more leftie rubbish.

- Proper Estate Agent
- 02 January 2024 10:06 AM
How about employ the best person for the job, rather than discriminate against white straight able males like the rest of the UK does.