From holistic therapist to rising star of The Mortgage Introducer Awards

Having started out as a holistic therapist and CBT practitioner, Gemma Bennett’s move into the mortgage industry was quite a career change, but it was certainly a successful one.

Bennett was named Rising Star (Broker or Distributor) at The Mortgage Introducer Awards in 2023. And now, as the nominations open again, Bennett has urged others to compete in this year’s coveted awards, with the opportunity to attend the glittering presentation ceremony in November.

“Do it!” she enthused. “It's fantastic to celebrate your journey and achievements. Even applying allows you to reflect on what's great about your experience so far.”

She continued: “It was huge confirmation that I'm on the right path! Such an honour. I was very proud to be recognised and it's helped me with my confidence going forward into this year.”

Bennett has been in the business just a few years, yet she quickly established herself and is now senior mortgage broker at The Mortgage Mum, a broking firm that prides itself on creating a space for women in a male dominated sector.

“I got into the industry in early 2021 after deciding upon a career change from therapy work,” she shared. “I love connecting with people and the best part is problem solving, finding the best fit for each individual case. The market is ever moving at the moment, and it’s uncomfortable for both clients and brokers.”

So what sense has she got from her clients about their confidence currently?

“They are generally anxious about what monthly payments will be at this time,” Bennett acknowledged. “I reassure them by giving them a full understanding of their options. Much of the fear is coming from the unknown and each case is so individual. We have to just work case by case and do our best to help people feel in control and as comfortable as they can be with their options.”

Bennett was clear about the advice she would offer other brokers, trying to negotiate their way through an unsettled market.

“I would say there’s so much you can’t control,” she considered. “Know what you can and what you can’t. Be so conscious of very clear communication also, so you’re managing expectations.” 

So, as an award winner, what has been her best business lesson so far? “To be you,” she explained, simply. “Don't try to mould - it's you people want to know, like and trust with their mortgage.”

Bennett’s triumph at The Mortgage Introducer Awards was clearly a highlight of her career in the industry so far, as she fondly remembered the feeling of being at the ceremony. “So excited, so grateful,” she recalled. “A fantastic atmosphere and such a buzz.”

Now others have the chance to be named among the most talented people within the mortgage industry, with the nominations finally open for The Mortgage Introducer Awards 2023.

The annual wards celebrate excellence in the UK mortgage industry, recognising the achievements of mortgage lenders, distributors, brokers, and individuals. With 28 categories to highlight the brightest and the best of the mortgage world, sponsored by big name brands, the awards are a career-defining opportunity to shine a light on yourself or your colleagues – and to be noticed. You can nominate anyone within your team or your organisation – you can put yourself forward too.

The 2023 awards will feature a range of categories, including Best Buy-to-Let Lender, Best Specialist Lender, Private Bank of the Year, and Mortgage Network of the Year. The awards also recognize individual achievements, with categories such as Innovator Champion of the Year and Rising Star of the Year.

Excitement will certainly be mounting as hundreds of professionals attend the biggest evening of the mortgage industry calendar, at Royal Lancaster in London, on Tuesday November 28, eager to find out who has scooped the top honours. The event is a unique opportunity for professionals in the mortgage industry to come together, network, and celebrate their successes.

To get involved and to make your mark on the awards go to:

https://www.mortgageintroducerawards.com/nominate/

But be fast, nominations close on August 11!