Will Chan
Chief Information Officer, InterRent
Catherine Hébert
Chief Talent Officer, InterRent
In the dynamic world of real estate and investing, vulnerability and candour may sometimes appear unconventional. However, InterRent REIT is embracing the power of honest conversations and creating a culture where genuine dialogues among team members thrive.
InterRent has experienced significant growth and expansion in the last few years, and our diversity and inclusion journey has grown alongside it. Led by our IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) committee, co-chaired by Chief Information Officer Will Chan and Chief Talent Officer Catherine (Cat) Hébert, InterRent is dedicated to creating an environment of continuous learning, where commitments and changes are sustainable and will stick over time.
Gathering valuable insights
In the last two years, InterRent has invested in listening to the voices of our diverse team members by launching two surveys specifically focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These surveys gathered valuable insights, suggestions, and perspectives, and have sparked changes within the organization.
“Not only did we listen to our team members, but we took action,” says Will. “We added key positions and implemented initiatives that have made a tangible difference. I remember a situation where a team member experienced a personal challenge that impacted their work. We provided the required time off, health resources, and a collaborative work modification plan, and gradually helped them get back on track.”
I believe in being part of a diverse organization that builds and develops strong teams.
Will Chan
Cat echoes the sentiment, sharing her experiences of beautiful cultural growth during her two years at InterRent. “Our awareness sessions provided a circle of trust where our team members were able to safely share their life experiences, good or bad, and felt comfortable asking tough questions and helping their peers,” she says.
Expanding mindsets and viewpoints
Cat recalls specific moments when colleagues weren’t afraid to challenge and encourage their peers to expand their mindset and viewpoints. “I may have shed a few tears at times witnessing the hurt and victories shared, and I learned so much through each conversation,” she says.
We embrace the concept of the Platinum Rule: ‘Treat others as THEY wish to be treated.’
Catherine Hébert
As InterRent continues our journey to awareness, we invite others to join in to celebrate vulnerabilities and imperfections, bridge differences, and empower team members to grow and achieve awareness — one heartfelt conversation at a time.
Visit interrentreit.com to learn more.
