Comment: Boosting female representation and advice for young women starting out in technology
On International Women in Engineering Day 2023, Mai Hassan, Solutions Consultant at Excellent Zephyr, discusses the key barriers for women entering the tech industry, along with creating real change via the recruitment process, and gives advice to those starting out in this space.
One of the key barriers is the perception of technology at school level - that so many girls consider technology a technical subject.
More can definitely be done at grass roots level to motivate more girls into technology and improve our gender’s representation in the industry. We’ve still a long way to go, with only 26% of the tech workforce being women.
Although change is happening slowly, educators can do more to inspire young women (and men) at school by setting out the broad spectrum of topics covered in technology and the various roles and careers open to young people.
To reinforce this, tech businesses should connect more with schools and colleges to host workshops that show the fun, problem-solving aspects of the work we do in the industry. Formalising these processes would significantly grow the numbers of girls studying subjects across both technology and engineering.
In addition, tech leaders and hiring managers have a great opportunity to build the right working environment for women to thrive in. It must come right from the top, at C-suite level, and filter down through all levels of the business.
Creating real change must start with the recruitment process, and by developing policies that support women at work: such as flexible or remote working and equal pay. When women are treated equally, actively supported and have clear goals, they can truly fulfil their potential.
Advice for women starting out in tech
My advice to young women looking to enter the world of tech is to try to learn as much as possible across a broad range of topics and spend some time considering what they’d really like to do.
When making applications, it’s important to realise that candidates don’t need to have five to ten years of experience to be a valued member of the team - even a graduate has a wealth of knowledge and perspective to make a positive impact.
Above all, women should have more confidence in their capabilities and not be afraid to voice their opinions. It’s useful to look out for a mentor who can answer questions, give guidance and inspire them to succeed.
Most importantly, women in tech should look out for the key indicators of a company that will support them in policy and practice. When considering their next employer, it’s important to ask about company policies for flexible working, diversity and inclusion and career development prospects.
There are many different roles that make up a technology business, so it may take several roles to find their niche.
However, a technology business that appreciates the value of each and every team member will engender a diverse team culture that keeps workers thriving and motivated to fulfil their potential.
Since larger businesses that are doing this well, such as Amazon, Apple and Google, are even increasing their women in tech representation to over a third, and the World Economic Forum reports that in data and AI, women make up 32% of the workforce, a new era is certainly in sight.
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