The tech industry has been dealing with gender biases that can make it tough for female leaders, especially those in startups, to thrive. Let’s take a look at some of the challenges you might face and work through some practical tips to overcome them.
Implicit Bias: Unearthing Subconscious Prejudices
Let’s start by digging into implicit bias. These are those sneaky unconscious attitudes and stereotypes that can hold us back. It’s time to shed light on them and kick them to the curb. Here’s what you can do:
- Get yourself and your team educated on implicit bias to raise awareness.
- Implement blind recruitment practices to minimize bias during hiring.
- Seek feedback and establish clear performance evaluation criteria for fair assessments.
- Get your team pumped up about diversity and inclusion training to foster understanding and empathy.
Stereotype Threat: Crushing Performance Anxiety
Whether we like it or not, we can sometimes feel the pressure of stereotypes? This “stereotype threat” can mess with your confidence and performance. There are a range of approaches you can take – some of these are about working on ourselves, some require us to create spaces for growth and others are more direct. Here’s what I suggest:
- Embrace a growth mindset that celebrates learning and effort. I have written previously about growth mindset. Take a step back and make sure that you are not the problem
- Emphasize to yourself, your team and the wider organization that setbacks are just stepping stones to success.
- Foster a safe space where your team feels free to take risks and share diverse perspectives.
- Celebrate the achievements of trailblazing women in tech – within and beyond your organization – to inspire others.
Workplace Dynamics: Navigating Power Structures
Office politics can be a real maze, but with the right moves, you can navigate them like a pro. I will have more to say on this important topic in upcoming articles, but for now, here’s the game plan:
- Build a solid network and find mentors, both male and female, who can guide and support you.
- Seek out leadership opportunities and projects to showcase your capabilities. Succeeding in these projects will boost your influence and visibility.
- Be a champion for diversity and push for gender equality initiatives. The diversity dividend that we reap is significant, directly impacting the bottom line, organizational performance and morale.
- Show off your expertise and champion your own ideas. Sometimes you simply have to back yourself.
Assertive Communication: Making Your Voice Heard
When it’s time to amp up your communication skills, you need to find a way to let your voice roar! Here’s how to do it:
- Hone your communication skills, making sure your ideas are clear and concise.
- Practice assertiveness by confidently expressing your thoughts and goals.
- Look for opportunities to present and speak at conferences to establish yourself as a thought leader.
- Create a supportive team environment that values open dialogue and diverse perspectives.
Leading by Example: Spreading Gender Equality
As a female leader, no matter whether you are working in tech or any other industry, you can be a true trailblazer for diversity and empowerment. Here’s how to lead the charge:
- Establish inclusive policies that support work-life balance and family-friendly initiatives.
- Promote diversity in recruitment and ensure equal opportunities for growth.
- Highlight the achievements of women in your organization and industry.
- Get involved in initiatives that fight for gender equality in the tech world.
Nina Nets It Out: Navigating bias in business can be a rollercoaster, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome these challenges and reach your career goals. By promoting inclusivity, amplifying your voice, and setting an example, you can make a lasting impact. So, go out there, break those barriers, and show the world what you’re made of.