The role of unconscious bias in limiting women's leadership opportunities in the South African real estate industry

Abstract

The objectives of this study are multifaceted. Firstly, it seeks to ascertain the presence and extent of unconscious gender bias impacting women’s leadership opportunities in the South African real estate industry. Additionally, it aims to determine if such bias influences women's career advancement within this sector. Employing qualitative methods, interviews with industry professionals shed light on the intricate dynamics of unconscious bias. The research seeks to correlate lived experiences with existing literature, presenting insights into the challenges women face in ascending to leadership roles. Results highlight that societal norms, organisational cultures, and individual attitudes converge, with unconscious bias serving as a notable factor influencing women’s opportunities. The study does not merely stop at highlighting the mechanisms of unconscious bias. It also proposes actionable strategies and interventions to mitigate its impact on women's advancement to leadership roles. These insights prove invaluable for organisations and policymakers in the South African real estate industry, offering a blueprint for promoting a more equitable and inclusive work environment. Overall, the study’s conclusions and recommendations stand to make a significant contribution to the ongoing dialogue on gender equality in leadership across the real estate sector and beyond, presenting pragmatic solutions rooted in thorough research.