Guaranteed Rate’s Kate Relies On Fate

How did you get your start in the mortgage industry?

KA: My first job right out of college was as a mortgage loan officer. I went on to roles in operations, risk, credit, and I am currently in capital markets. I really enjoy developing leaders, the creativity of product, and believe housing finance is an important and meaningful way to contribute to the lives of the clients we work with.

What does being a trailblazer mean to you?

KA: A trailblazer is someone who has the courage to show up authentically as a change agent, embracing new ideas and circumstances.

Trailblazing is not only about being bold, but also about being resilient and the best version of yourself. It means overcoming fears and courageously stepping past them to achieve your goals.

Where do you see yourself, and women in general, in the industry over the next 5 years?

KA: I see myself empowering excellence in others and embodying my highest self-mastery. I believe we are in a time when women have the opportunity to grow and thrive in our work and lives like never before. I see this amplifying over the upcoming years. We are able to have our perspective added to every conversation at every level.

What is your professional superpower?

KA: Hands down, my superpower is my energy. I think of myself as the bright spark that can rally our organization around executing a vision of what could be.

When I come to the table, I want everyone to match my energy and channel it into forward momentum for whatever initiative we are taking on. I want them to know that my enthusiasm is genuine and that their contributions will be met with respect and gratitude for their efforts.

I also have a unique ability to turn obstacles into opportunities. For myself and for the people around me. I love bringing an air of excitement and fun to the table and using that to inspire others to exceed their own expectations.

Tell us something about your career in the mortgage industry that was pivotal to your achievements today.

KA: Understanding who I am, my strengths, and developing the confidence to step out into the world as my authentic self has been pivotal to my success. I have learned to ride the wave of industry and business cycles to create resilience and opportunity in my life. Lastly, I intentionally use my mindset to create future opportunities.

What advice would you give to a woman entering or trying to move up in their mortgage career?

KA: There are three pivotal actions you can take to empower yourself.

First, take the time to get to know yourself. Learn what is important to you and follow that inner compass rather than letting the environment and those in it influence who you are and where you want to go.

The only constant is change. If you are true to yourself, you can remain balanced and centered despite chaos or upheavals. Success comes from outside of your comfort zone and knowing who you are gives you the courage to push past fears and let go of limiting beliefs.

Second, find your tribe. Work and life are always more fun when you share it with others. Find a group or line of work that you feel is important and makes a difference in the world and contribute to it. Contributing to a group working together towards a common goal is satisfying and empowering.

Curate an inner circle of women who lift each other up and provide the support and encouragement needed to push each other forward. Find an accountability partner in that group who can keep you on track and give you honest feedback when you need it. Trust them to give you a reality check when required.

Third, to take inspired action. Don’t wait for opportunities to knock at your door. Volunteer to be a part of projects that you find interesting and important to you.

Look for ways to contribute to team problem solving or volunteer for stretch projects. Establishing a reputation as a team player and someone willing to step up is valuable as you move through your career. Don’t confuse this with taking on all of the team admin work.

Always keep moving in the direction of your true North with every action you take. Looking within yourself for the answers to what motivates and inspires you can only lead in the right direction and keep you from getting sidetracked.

What does success mean to you?

KA: Success means empowering others to improve their lives, our communities, and [the] larger ecosystems we serve. It means making a meaningful and lasting difference through conscious leadership as we redefine how businesses interact with employees and communities while evolving how humans contribute value to society. Success really is about showing up and participating in change while also paving the way for future leaders to flourish.

How do you recommend navigating change in an industry that is always changing and growing?

KA: My philosophy is to embrace change as the only constant. When you accept change as the natural flow within any industry, it becomes easier to lean in and see it as a challenge rather than an obstacle to success. Knowing the power of your perspective allows you to stay grounded and focused.

Actively choosing to see the potential in any set of circumstances offers you options, that dwelling on the negative takes away. Letting fear dictate your actions limits your opportunities and can drag you into a space where you feel powerless. When you see things as happening for your benefit, each moment is a new opportunity to learn something about yourself and make choices aligned with your desired outcome!

What do you like to do outside of your working life?

KA: My husband and I are property investors and business partners; we specialize in urban restoration projects. We buy dilapidated property in historic neighborhoods and bring them back to life. We also love to travel, attend the orchestra, and scuba dive together!

I really enjoy meditation, journaling gratitude practice, and positive affirmations. Additional parts of my selfcare routine also includes, getting enough sleep and exercise with a fast-paced Vinyasa Flow, Zumba class, or any other fun movement I enjoy. Walking in my favorite park and out in nature also keeps me balanced and feeling good. I also enjoy sci-fi and EDM.

What one takeaway would you like our readers to hold and create in their lives?

KA: Your mindset is your most powerful resource. The easiest way to dial into a great mindset? Get a journal and set aside five minutes a day to write positive affirmations and what you are grateful for. It is amazing what you can create from a place of gratitude and intention, and it only takes five minutes a day. What we think, speak, and write has a profound impact on our lives.