Uploaded on Aug 14, 2023
Read along to discover the importance of having women in the tech industry and why their inclusion matters to businesses.
The Importance of Women in the Tech Industry Bridging the Gender Gap for Success
The Importance of
Women in the Tech
Industry: Bridging the
Gender Gap for
Success
https://goodmanlantern.com/
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Let’s face it; technology runs the modern world. It’s rapidly evolving
and provides opportunities and breakthroughs that were once
unimaginable. However, the tech industry can do better when it
comes to being equal and inclusive.
Even after an increase in global conversations about the lack of
women in the tech industry, they are disproportionally missing out
on the IT boom. While women make up 47% of all employed adults in
the US, as of 2022, they hold only 28% of computing and
mathematical roles, according to Zippia. Things need to change, and
they need to change soon.
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This article explores the vital link between women and technology. It
highlights the myriad benefits they bring and addresses the barriers
they face. Join us on this journey as we unravel why gender equality is
a catalyst for success in tech.
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Women and
Technology: As It
Stands
There are several
reasons that contribute
to the under-
representation of
women in business and
technology, such as:
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1. Implicit Bias and Stereotypes
Women in tech often encounter implicit bias and stereotypes. These
prejudices can undermine their credibility and contributions. These
biases can manifest in various forms, and are often faced by women in
all stages of their lives. These include assumptions that women are
less competent or more suited for non-technical roles. Facing such
mindsets at a young age can dissuade women from pursuing a career
in technology.
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2. Gender Pay Gap
A persistent gender pay gap is another challenge women face in the
tech industry. A report by Verdict stated that in tech, 91.1% of
companies pay their male employees more than their female staff.
This pay disparity affects women’s financial well-being. It also
perpetuates the cycle of gender inequality within the industry.
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3. Under-representation in Leadership Positions
Women in the tech industry remain significantly under-represented in
leadership positions. Despite their skills and qualifications, they often
face barriers to career advancement. These include biases in hiring
and promotion processes. The lack of female role models and mentors
further exacerbates this issue. All these factors make it extremely
difficult for women in business and technology to break through the
glass ceiling.
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Why We Need More Women in The
Tech Industry
It’s not enough to understand the various challenges women face in
business and technology. There needs to be a strong appreciation for
the need for women in the tech industry. Here are a few reasons why
supporting women in tech is so important:
Diverse perspectives and innovation: Women in business and
technology bring unique perspectives and experiences which
undoubtedly foster innovation and creativity. When you bring women
and technology together, you gain problem-solving abilities that
consider a broader range of viewpoints. Often, this can lead to
effective and user-centric solutions.
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• Increased productivity and profitability: Gender diversity
helps with productivity and financial performance.
McKinsey reported that companies in the top quartile for gender
diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-
average profitability than companies in the fourth quartile.
• Enhanced collaboration and team dynamics: Including women
in the tech industry promotes a more collaborative work
environment. Women often possess strong interpersonal skills,
empathy, and emotional intelligence. All of these are valuable for
effective teamwork, communication, and building cohesive work
cultures.
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• Expanded talent pool and skills: Encouraging more women to
enter and thrive in the tech industry certainly expands the talent
pool. Supporting women in tech allows companies to access a wider
range of skills and expertise. By tapping into the full potential of the
workforce, organisations can address skill shortages, foster
innovation, and gain a competitive edge.
• Social equality and empowerment: Achieving equality in the
context of women and technology is a matter of
social justice and empowerment. By breaking down gender barriers
and providing equal opportunities, women can chiefly pursue
fulfilling careers and gain financial independence.
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Measures for
Supporting Women
in Tech
By now, you must
appreciate the
importance and
significance of women
in business and
technology. Now, let’s
consider taking some
action about it. Here is
what you can do to
support women in
tech:
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1. Creating Inclusive Workplaces
We might not even know it, but we might have some deep-rooted bias
against women in technology. You can conduct sensitivity training and
HR interventions in your organisation to eliminate these biases. This
will help make your workplace more inclusive and improve hiring and
promotion decisions. Focus on creating work environments that value
diversity and promote gender equality. You can also push for women-
friendly HR policies such as flexible work arrangements and maternity
leaves.
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2. Advocating for Equal Pay and Benefits
Addressing gender pay gaps whenever you encounter them is a great
way to support women in business and technology. Supporting
women in tech means helping them in breaking the glass ceiling. You
can campaign for equitable benefits and opportunities for professional
development. You should also be vocal against any pay disparity or
discrimination that comes to your attention.
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3. Providing Opportunities for Skill Development and Growth
Providing educational opportunities and scholarships specifically
targeted at encouraging women in business and technology can go a
long way in addressing the issue early. Mentorship and guidance
programs through female mentors can also help the cause. Even in
your organisation, you can look into skill development programs and
networking events targeted towards women and technology.
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The
Takeaway
The time to act on gender disparity in tech is now. As we make digital
advancements, it is surely our duty to actively work on supporting
women in the tech industry. There are several things that we can do
on an individual, organisational, and societal level that can
correspondingly pave the way for an equitable future. So let’s join
hands and commit to the cause to ensure the betterment of women,
technology, and the world at large.
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THANK
YOU!
Goodman
Lantern
Phone: Email: Website:
+1 9292993999 [email protected] https://goodmanlantern.c
om om/
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