We recently connected with Yolanda Felton and have shared our conversation below.
Yolanda, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
From the time I was a child growing up in Ohio, I’ve found myself in situations where I’m “the only” in the room. For me, having an underlying self-awareness is essential. I’d describe myself as quietly confident. I know I belong in every space I enter. My parents helped instill that in me, and I really developed that sense of self and belonging while I was an undergraduate student at Spelman College.
In addition to exuding confidence, I believe in knowing your area of expertise inside and out. It helps tremendously in both making it easier to communicate your point in a room where you may be the only person who looks like you, and making it clear to those you encounter that you’re someone they want to know, if not work with.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m the Managing Broker at Haven Real Estate Group. Haven specializes in Los Angeles real estate, with a unique social impact. I like to call us a boutique brokerage with a purpose. In addition to managing and growing Haven, I work closely with my own clients to help them achieve their real estate goals. My background is in law, which has been a tremendous asset in my real estate career.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
My leadership skills, communication skills, and tenacity have helped me navigate my career peaks and valleys. I’d advise those just starting their career to just say yes. Many of the skills I either picked up or honed along the way are the result of me saying yes to meetings, training sessions, and mentorship opportunities.
Particularly in sales, being social is a requirement. When I first transitioned from law to real estate, I wasn’t nearly as outgoing as I am now. I can honestly say that one of my favorite parts of my job is meeting and interacting with interesting people.
A word on tenacity…I don’t take no for an answer. In my mind, it just means “not right now.” The ability to keep going is essential, in any industry.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m always looking for great agents to join our team. Experienced agents are fantastic, but I also love working with newly licensed agents who are eager to learn and sell. My leadership style is collaborative, and we have fun while representing our clients. Agents who are looking to make a social impact have the opportunity to join me in my three percent commitment, and donate a portion of their commissions to local organizations helping the unhoused.
Interested? I’m always available via email (info@havengroupla.com) or DM.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.havengroupla.com/
- Instagram: @havengroupla
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/havengroupla/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolanda-felton-78699837/
Image Credits
Ilene Squires
