Why it’s important for women to be ‘more bold’ in the tech industry

Earlier this month, five women from Verizon met to share their experiences and the lessons they’ve learned as women working in tech. Jean McManus, Abby Knowles, Jessica Thorpe, Amy Lloyd, and Natalie Williams represent both technical and nontechnical teams at Verizon, but their experiences and advice are sure to resonate with women in all types of jobs.

#BeBoldForChange was the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day. For women in the tech industry, this often boils down to standing up for gender equality in the workplace — and beyond. Even after decades of initiatives dedicated to making women equal partners with men in the corporate world, the gender gap still remains large.

The truth is everyone can only benefit from empowered women and gender equality. In fact, advancing women’s equality can actually add $12 trillion to global growth, according to a report by McKinsey Global Institute.

Complacency is dangerous. We cannot afford to sit back and wait for change to happen. At the current rate, it will take 170 years to eradicate the inequality in pay and employment opportunities for men and women. Instead, women need to take a stance, break existing perceptions, and be bold enough to share their knowledge and expertise to a room full of men.

So how exactly can a woman in tech be bold, and why does it matter?

1. Step outside your comfort zone: In the workplace, women are often perceived as being ‘less technical’ than men, fitting more into a secretarial or administrative role, but don’t let yourself fall into that category. Listen to your wants and needs, and reevaluate your career goals. If you want that technical position, go after it. If you need advice from your male supervisor, don’t be afraid to ask. “You have to be willing to let go of what’s comfortable,” said Sarah Robb O’Hagan, business leader, activist and entrepreneur, during the 2017 MAKERS Conference. Step outside your box and do whatever it takes to gain exposure and move yourself forward in your career.
2. Know your facts and speak up: A woman who is passionate about business is often perceived as emotional, while a man who is passionate about business is perceived as daring and motivating. This perception is likely to stick around, so come to meetings prepared and ready to contribute something of value. Even if there is passion or emotion in your voice, make sure that you are grounded in recommendations and solutions. Don’t talk just to talk. Research the subject matter ahead of time, and come with the facts. You won’t be overlooked.
3. Support one other: A female executive walks into a room full of men and asks herself, “Where are the other women?” While outnumbered, especially in the male-dominated tech industry, it’s important for female peers to come together to empower one another. Use this support system as a resource and tool to push through the barriers you are constantly faced with in the workplace. In addition, make an effort to bring more women into the field — find that hidden pool of talented young professionals, and make yourself accessible to them.

During Women’s History Month, we remember and honor the powerful female leaders of our past, while looking forward and paving the way for our future generations. Let’s take what we learned this past month, and apply it to our personal and business lives year-round. Through purposeful communication, we can be bold, take pragmatic action and accelerate gender equality.

Click here to learn more about diversity and inclusion at Verizon.

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