Today is International Women’s Day: a day to “imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity.”
In the tech industry, there is a problematic and serious lack of diversity, with women making up less than 40% of the workplace; at Penrod, we’re proud to say that women make up 50% of our staff.
We asked our ladies what advice they would give to women starting a job in tech (or wanting to).
Yves Stewart, Salesforce Consultant, says: “For women starting out in tech, I would say remember that you have a voice, so don’t be afraid to use it. There’s a reason you were brought in, so share your knowledge and speak up.”
Lacey Van Syckle, Chief Delivery Officer, added to this sentiment: “Recognize that you come with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that are valuable to any organization; feel confident in sharing that knowledge. I also think it’s very powerful to find a mentor within your organization who can support you, provide guidance, and give you that extra boost of confidence when you need it. It is so important that we support each other’s growth and understand that we can all rise together!”
Alana Lombardi, Project Manager, continued: “I’ve never really had the mindset that I’m a woman working in tech, but rather a person working in tech among many other people working in tech. I think that’s helped eliminate any self-consciousness or doubt that may or would have occurred because of my gender. At the end of the day, we all wear pants.”
That said, women are continuing the fight for equality in the general workforce as well. Our women provided some advice for that, too:
“From a recruiter-in-tech standpoint, I’d also add: Don’t shy away from negotiating your salary and asking for what you believe your work is worth,” says Talent Acquisition Specialist, Cassie Bonner.
“I think most of us can probably identify with what imposter syndrome feels like. Like someone made a mistake to trust you, like you don’t deserve the recognition you’re getting, like people are going to find out you don’t really know what you’re doing… I have to remind myself a lot that ✨ no one knows what they’re doing ✨. We’re all mostly doing the best we can with what we have and figuring it out as we go. That confident-sounding guy in the meeting? He’s faking it till he makes it just like everyone else. So celebrate your wins instead of talking yourself out of them,” says Katrina Stiebs, Chief People Officer.
To all the ladies at Penrod, thank you for being you and for contributing endless skills, ideas, and energy into everything you do. Happy International Women’s Day!