Confidence – not capability – remains the biggest barrier to women progressing in the property sector according to a new internal survey conducted by LRG.
The research, carried out among participants in LRG’s EmpowerHer programme to mark International Women’s Day 2026, found that more than seven in ten respondents had held back from applying for a promotion, project or opportunity at some point in their careers because of a lack of confidence.
Every respondent said confidence presents a greater obstacle for women in the property industry than it does for men.
For some, the consequences have been significant. One participant said she chose not to apply for a promotion despite having more experience than other candidates. The role went to someone who simply put themselves forward. Another said she delayed seeking advancement while waiting for the “right moment” that never arrived.
LESS REPRESENTATION
LRG says the responses highlight a long-standing industry challenge where women have historically had fewer visible role models and less representation in senior decision-making positions.
The company launched its EmpowerHer programme in 2024, offering mentoring, roundtables and development sessions for women across the business. When participants were asked which sessions resonated most, confidence and assertiveness ranked higher than topics such as unconscious bias.
CHANGING ATTITUDES
Every respondent said their confidence had increased since joining the programme and that it had changed how they approach situations where they previously felt hesitant.
Michelle Masiglat-Cook, Lettings Director at Stirling Ackroyd, says: “I used to always wait for the right time to put myself forward, which there never is. Now I have the confidence to do it… At least I’ve put myself out there, so when an opportunity comes around, I’ll be ready.”
Donna Wright, recently promoted to Director of Customer support and engagement at LRG, adds: “It was reassuring to know the self-doubt and questioning were normal, and it was not just me.”
Similar feedback has been reported elsewhere in the group. A separate staff survey at Boyer found three quarters said EmpowerHer and Boyer’s own mentoring programme had supported their professional development.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Hannah Cooper (main picture, inset), Chief People Officer at LRG, says: “The fact that confidence and assertiveness resonated more than any other topic tells you something important about where our industry stands. Women in property aren’t lacking ability, but too many have spent their careers second-guessing whether they’re allowed to show it.
“EmpowerHer is creating a space where women can recognise that, challenge it and support each other through it. The response has shown us how much demand there is for this kind of programme, and we’re committed to building on it.”
LRG said its gender pay gap has narrowed from 43.59% in 2019 to 26.40% in 2025. Women now make up 60% of the company’s workforce and 36% of its executive board.
