Q: If you could teach women growing in the industry today just one thing, what would it be?
RH: Bring something to the table. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. And, follow through with your commitments. That’s actually three things but it’s important to show up and get the job done. Everyone is busy – so don’t make excuses.
Q: What is your biggest career failure and what positive lessons did it teach you?
RH: The biggest mistake I made is staying at a job longer than I should have. Don’t stay at a company that doesn’t align with your values. There are lots of opportunities out there.
Q: To what do you attribute your success?
RH: I focus on building good relationships. Be authentic and genuine. You can still make tough and important decisions while being respectful and kind to others. People are much more apt to help you in your career or hire you into positions if they enjoy working with you.
Q: What is the biggest challenge for women working in real estate?
RH: Commercial Real Estate is a male-dominated field. There aren’t a lot of female role models or peers in the industry. I’ve been fortunate to meet some great women in the industry whom I continue to learn from.
Q: Have you had mentors over your career? Who are they and what influence did they have?
RH: I have had both male and female mentors over my career. It may seem extremely basic but the most important lessons I learned from them are stay above the fray, take the high road and treat people fairly.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working in this industry?
RH: The people. Briggs has built a great team of brokers, architects, and contractors. It’s a fast-paced business and you need a good team to be successful.
Q: What do you do to unwind when you’re not working?
RH: I like to travel with my family, read a good book or hang out with friends. I also love a good girl’s trip!
Q: What's the greatest fear you've had to overcome to get where you are today?
RH: Fear of Failure. Being out of the workforce for a few years, I questioned whether my skills were current or if I could keep up with the fast pace of today’s job market. I found that companies will give you the resources needed to be successful at the job. Don’t underestimate yourself.
Q: Can you tell our audience one of the most memorable moments in your career?
RH: One of my most memorable moments is when Briggs Development sold the first building I worked on. It was an 80,000 square foot R&D building in San Jose. It was my first project management job with Briggs. I was working with contractors on a tight timeline. To see that project through to the end was an exciting and rewarding process.
Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you can share with our audience?
RH: It’s okay to take a break, pivot, or go in another direction altogether. Everyone’s path is different. I took a break when my kids were young. When I re-entered the workforce, I chose a different industry. For me, it was exciting and energizing to learn new things and meet new people.
Q: Which woman inspires you and why?
RH: My grandmother. I guess you could say she was my first role model. Over her career, she worked for the telephone company, hospital, and the bank. I have fond memories of visiting her at the bank during our summertime visits. She was able to manage the life balance of both career and family successfully.
Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
RH: Believe in yourself. Don’t underestimate your abilities and worth! And, take a break when you need it.
Five Things About Reggie Hidalgo
1. What is your favorite food to cook?
Any type of dessert. I have a huge sweet tooth!
2. What is one item you always pack in your suitcase?
Snacks. Ask my husband – you don’t want to travel with me when I’m hungry!
3. How do you release stress?
I like to work out to relieve stress. I’m a regular at Orange Theory Fitness Willow Glen.
4. What app can’t you live without?
Google Maps. I hate being late, so I always check directions and travel time. You never know with Bay Area traffic.
5. Is there something else you would like to accomplish?
My brother and I started a small rental portfolio. I would love to grow that business over the next 10 years.