With International Women’s Day celebrated at the start of this month and its ‘Inspire Inclusion’ theme, it's crucial to acknowledge the contributions of female tech leaders who have paved the way for others in this field. As the technology industry continues to grow, so too does the number of women working in tech.
The tech industry offers many opportunities for women, with benefits that extend beyond the traditional career path. From being in high demand to the flexibility of contracting roles, there are many reasons why women can thrive in a tech career.
From Sheryl Sandberg’s influential role at Facebook to Ginni Rometty’s transformative leadership at IBM, women have proven that they not only belong in tech but can also excel and lead. The tech industry is witnessing a transformative era where female leaders are at the forefront of innovation. For women, there has never been a better time to work in tech.
Working in tech: The benefits
Demand is high
The tech industry constantly evolves, creating a high demand for skilled IT professionals. Today, there is a workforce demand for IT job roles that exceeds the supply of qualified tech workers. This demand presents an opportunity for women to enter a field where their expertise is valued and sought after. By pursuing careers in tech, women can contribute to innovative solutions and drive meaningful change across industries.
Rewarding careers
It isn’t uncommon for tech and fintech firms to top the list of ‘Best Companies to Work For’ compilations on Glassdoor. Employees in the tech section mention job satisfaction, company values, career opportunities, work/life balance, and management support as key reasons why they enjoy working in the tech industry.
Flexibility in tech roles
Technology is a portable career. From app development and automation to cloud computing, cybersecurity and ERP implementation, the range of job titles and areas under the technology umbrella continues to grow. The flexibility of tech roles enables women to balance their professional and personal lives. Whether working remotely, on a hybrid basis or choosing flexible hours, tech companies often provide options to accommodate diverse lifestyles.
IT contracting
The UK IT contract job market remains robust, offering many opportunities for skilled IT professionals. Contract Eye estimates the total number of UK IT contractors was around 100,000 in 2023.
Contracting roles in the tech industry offer opportunities for women to gain experience and fill the digital skills gap. Contract roles are ideal for women returning to work after a career break. They enable consultants to work on different projects that can help refresh skills and build knowledge. As companies seek specialised expertise for short-term projects, contracting roles can enable women to showcase their skills and expand their professional networks.
Five tips for developing your tech career
If you’re looking to develop your tech career, here are five tips:
1. Embrace Learning
The tech industry evolves rapidly, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is vital. Engage in lifelong learning through courses, workshops, and certifications to keep your skills current: It’s essential for maintaining a competitive edge.
Online platforms offer courses on everything from data science to cloud computing. Platforms including Udacity, and LinkedIn Learning have resources to help. New areas are emerging and creating further skills gaps. In 2024, there is a growing demand for tech workers in artificial intelligence (AI) for example. Research estimates AI will create 97 million jobs.
2. Network
Networking is important in the tech industry. Building professional relationships is invaluable. Platforms like GitHub have opportunities to contribute and collaborate. There are industry meetups, tech groups, webinars, forums, and conferences. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide support throughout your career. It will also give you a supportive community for continuous learning.
3. Find a Mentor
Guidance from experienced female tech professionals can be instrumental. In the tech industry, a mentor can help you better yourself and learn the right things at the right time. A mentor can help you overcome industry challenges and achieve your goals. Seek mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and insights from their experiences. A mentor can help you navigate the tech industry's challenges and inspire you to reach greater heights.
4. Promote Your Achievements
Don’t shy away from showcasing your work. Whether it’s a successful project or a new skill, make sure your contributions are visible to peers and leaders within your organisation and to those who are looking at your LinkedIn profiles and CV.
5. Advocate for Diversity
Be a voice for diversity and inclusion in your workplace. Encourage policies and practices that support different perspectives and talents, which drives creativity and innovation. A McKinsey report found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are, on average, 15% more likely to have above-average financial returns.
Women have a significant role in the tech industry with ample opportunities to thrive. If you’re looking to take the next step in your tech career, speak to NU Concept Solutions today. It’s your time to make a meaningful impact on the ever-evolving world of technology.