Meet a NAIOP Chicago Developing Leader | Megan Barker
Name: Megan Barker
Company: Cushman & Wakefield
Position: Associate, Capital Markets | Industrial Advisory Group
Age: 27
Education: University of Wisconsin – Madison
Years in Real Estate: 5 years
1. What led you to work in the Real Estate industry?
The logical response is my dad. He’s been in the industry for over 30 years and, for as long as I can remember, the two of us would talk about real estate every chance we had. But I really think my interest in real estate dates back to my early obsession with Zillow. I had $0 to my name but was determined to find my parents a lake house. I ultimately failed – I didn’t have a serious buyer and ignored any price restrictions. I’ve now switched from knowing every lake house on the market to tracking industrial deals on the market. I’ve been part of the industrial investment sales team at C&W for the past 5 years and started this year as a partner on the team!
2. Who has been the biggest influence in your career?
My dad continues to be my biggest influence both professionally and personally. He truly embodies what it looks like to work hard, love what you do, and hold respect among those he surrounds himself with. He has always been my biggest supporter and fan, responding to every launch or closing announcement my team sends out; or calling out a typo in an OM I wrote! I’ve also been fortunate to be surrounded by incredible people on my team, and within the industry, that continue to have a big impact on my career.
3. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
I’m looking forward to continuing my career in a successful industrial real estate market!
4. How long have you been involved with NAIOP and what do you view as the benefits of your NAIOP Developing Leader membership?
I have been involved with NAIOP for the past two years. NAIOP has played an integral part in expanding my network, founding friendships, and providing opportunities to get out of the office and learn/collaborate with the best in the industry.
5. What is the most important lesson you have learned during your career?
When you’re given an opportunity, take it. However small or large, there’s always something to learn. Typically, the more uncomfortable it makes you, the more you gain from it!
6. What is the best piece of professional advice you have been given?
Get away from your desk when you can. So much of what you learn is absorbed outside of the office through the people you meet, attending panels, touring markets and buildings, etc.
7. What characteristics do you consider most important in your role and in the industry?
I think some of the most successful people in the industry share a number of qualities – motivated, passionate, resourceful, and personable!
8. Outside of work, how do you enjoy spending your time?
You can usually find me spending time with family and friends, spoiling the cutest nieces, trying new restaurants around the city, (attempting to) work on my golf game, and dreaming of the day I give in and get a dog!
9. What’s the funniest story from your time working in CRE?
Probably more embarrassing than funny – I showed up to my first building tour, dressed to impress, wearing heels and was told I couldn’t join. With all male bosses, this wasn’t something anyone ever encountered or thought to mention before the tour!