How to make your way in tech as a woman
It can be tough being a woman in a tech-related field, but remember that lots of things in life are challenging! Put your attention on what you can contribute and what makes you unique.
People always ask if it's hard to be a woman in tech because they are underrepresented in the industry. But why should we only focus on what's difficult? Where does the support start? It starts with you.
One of the most important things you can do is support yourself, support others, and find people who will support you. You have to really - deep down - believe in yourself and that you can achieve your goals. Then you have to believe in others and that they can achieve their goals and it won't negatively affect you. Finally, you have to find your own cheerleaders who will encourage and believe in you.
How can you do all this? Here are some tactical ways to support, be supported, and find support.
Be your own cheerleader
One of the best things you can do for your career is to be your own biggest fan. Not by constantly talking about your accomplishments or bragging about your results, but by believing in yourself. And once you do that, you'll find others who believe in you too.
If you are a follower of self-development, keep up with everything that will help you grow and overcome impostor syndrome. This can be books, podcasts, TED Talks, therapies - the sky is the limit. I know... it sounds "demanding" and yes, I felt the same way at first. But believe me, it will change your life.
What are you afraid of? Maybe you're afraid of failing or maybe even of success. You have to completely get rid of this failure mentality because we're constantly learning and when we learn we can encourage ourselves.
For personal development, it is advisable to set aside at least 10 minutes per day, in any form. Small steps are better than no steps. So, instead of spending 10 minutes scrolling mindlessly, use that time for personal development instead.
One thing is certain: if you do not believe in yourself, then others will not either.
Women that support women
Make no mistake: women supporting other women is a topic unto itself. One might think this goes without saying, since we should all support each other. But that's not always the case.
We are often told that there is only one spot at the top, and that it is a competition to reach this top spot. However, it is actually that we raise ourselves by bringing others up, rather than putting them down – there is room at the top for everyone!
This is because the top is not the same for you as it is for someone else. Everyone has different strengths, abilities, and goals - and we can all help each other. If we all start supporting each other, sharing our best practices, and encouraging each other, it will benefit everyone!
Find you allies
What about allies? Can we create an inclusive culture without the support of people who don't belong to our demographic group? The short answer is "No way!"
Just like any other group, we need allies—people outside of our immediate circle who will support us and help us grow in our careers and lives. We can start building and maintaining these relationships by communicating where we need help. It can be easy to hold back and not ask for others' support, but remember that often, people outside of a group don't know what they can do to support it—so you may have to step out of your comfort zone and show them.
Not knowing how to be a good ally does not mean you are doing something wrong, it simply means that you need a guide on how to be an ally. Be proactive, because only then can you expand your network.
The Takeaway
Instead of focusing on the disadvantages, think about how you can make an advantage out of them.
You are unique and bring unique ideas with you. You have so much to offer. Focus on what you have to offer, lift up the other person and take them with you on the ride.
What if we looked at our differences as strengths instead of weaknesses? In this way, we can – and will – change the world.
