Rashauna Scott is a millennial thought leader with superpowers in real estate and financial literacy. Her goal as a real estate investor is to build long-term wealth through unique investing systems. Additionally, Scott is an Illinois-licensed real estate agent, mentor, finance coach, and public speaker. She pours her talents into schools and organizations with the goal to inform, educate and share her knowledge with those who are diligent in learning more about business, financial literacy and real estate.
Scott is also the creator of “Flippin’ In Heels,” an online community for women who are both seasoned and experienced real estate investors.
Why is it important for women of color to lead or work in leadership roles and decision-making capacities?
I think it’s important for everyone, in general, to want to be a leader, however, we know that won’t always be the case. A leader is someone who exemplifies strength, determination, and much tenacity. It is particularly important for women of color to lead in this manner because they give hope to little Brown girls who have dreams of following in their footsteps. More importantly, I think it’s imperative for women of color to set goals and to reach extremely high for them. It isn’t just the word leadership that inspires a person but it’s what that leader is doing. It’s how they are boldly changing the world and sacrificing for the things they want to happen. When girls of color see a strong Black woman, it becomes easier for them to set goals because they can familiarize themselves with those who have successfully paved the way. In regard to women of color being in roles where we are decision makers; it is completely necessary as we can always bring a diversified perspective to the table. Our knowledge, culture, and experiences have equipped us with the ability to see things from all angles and to be empathetic toward certain situations. However, we can also think rational[ly] as to what makes the most sense and what is fair for the majority when it comes to making firm decisions.
If you could thank any Black woman history maker for her contributions to society, who would it be and why?
Mellody Hobson, hands down! I’ve looked up to this woman for quite some time now. She started her professional career in her early 20s and is still at that same company 20-plus years later. She’s grown from entry-level positions to the president; at Ariel Investments that is! Not only is she the president of the largest minority-owned investment firm in the country but she sits on many boards for major corporations.To see her accomplishments surely has inspired me and this goes back to the first question of why it’s important for women of color to be bold and to be leaders.
How do you feel about the hashtag #CollaborationOverCompetition? What qualities or values do you deem indispensable in your business partners or collaborators?
I absolutely love this hashtag. I for one am a huge advocate for collaborating and building alongside my sisters. I just finished hosting an online virtual summit which featured five women real estate professionals and we have tons of tips, tricks, and advice to others in the industry. We are certainly stronger when we come together as our experiences and backgrounds are all different. We can reach a much larger and more diverse audience when others have people they can relate to.
What are your thoughts on taking risks? Making mistakes?
I think this is a great question because many people think you always have to fail in order to learn a lesson. On the contrary, I think you can learn a lot by truly listening to those who have made mistakes before you. This is why I believe it’s so important to have mentors that you can lean on for advice. Yes, there are certain situations where some things you just have to go through but I think you can save a lot of time and headache by listening to those who have successfully gone before you.
What are three success habits you implement into your daily routine to maintain your success, sanity and peace of mind?
To maintain my success, I really take pride in educating myself. I’ve invested thousands of dollars into learning my craft and polishing my skills. I think it’s imperative for those who wish to experience success they understand that they must never stop learning. I have a saying on my website that says “the main K.E.Y.s to success is to Keep Educating Yourself!” This can be in the form of workshops, webinars, seminars, conferences, reading books, etc. Peace of mind — I have a problem saying no to people. I try my very best to be a woman of my word so I let my yes mean yes, my no mean no, and I often use “let me check and I’ll get back to you.” As you become busier in your daily routine you have to learn that it isn’t meant for you to be everywhere all the time and it isn’t meant for you to be everything to everybody. Again, learn the importance of saying no. Lastly, I’ve noticed that when I go to bed early I can wake up early and get a lot of work done.
Who or what motivates you and why?
This may sound strange but seeing other people win is something that motivates me. It lights a fire under my behind and I tell myself to go out there and get what’s [mine]. … What also motivates me is the inbox messages and emails I receive from people who are my age (26) or younger who are amazed when they see what I’ve accomplished so far. They always say, “Since I’m young, how can I … ” and I stop them right in their tracks and I let them know do not let being young be an excuse. That is your advantage! So it definitely motivates me to be able to encourage and inspire others.
