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date added:2009-09-20 15:12:09 | modifed: 2009-09-20 15:12:09

How can Women Compete in Technology?

By Malaga Smith

The topic of women evolving in technical, male-dominated fields, like internet technology, telecommunications, programming, etc. is an important one. Having succeeded in several male-dominated technical industries, here are some suggestions that may help you chart your course to success:

Accept but don’t dwell on inequities. Recognize the negatives without identifying with them and stay focused on success and the job at hand.
Address uncomfortable or abusive workplace issues as they occur – don’t internalize them. Push back.
Keep focused on the job, not the negative aspects. Issues that interrupt or thwart career development are serious and require effective strategies.
Accept the challenge even though technology is difficult. Programming, software or hardware design, and networking all require a high level of focus, knowledge, and drive to master techniques and only the results count.
Trust your abilities and don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Technology can be intimidating.
Take the opportunity to compete on this level playing field. Technology is today’s great equalizer.
Choose your mentors first according to their level of expertise and success, their longevity, their willingness to be tough and honest with you and to protect you from pitfalls. These attributes are more important than gender. Mentors are essential to a successful career. They lead the way and can allow you to visualize yourself in the position you aspire to.
Insist on staying challenged. Don’t accept dumbed-down answers to your questions. When you excel at something, show it by teaching, leading, and mentoring.
Keep tabs on your own strengths and accomplishments. You are promoted according to your strengths, not your weaknesses.
Learn to ask for help both at home and work without feeling guilty or indebted. A career in technology often means working overtime and being on call 24 hours a day. Women with families to care for can’t do it all.
Analyze career possibilities frequently and stay aware of where you stand. Just being aware can make all the difference.
Keep in mind that today’s technology is relatively new territory and we are helping to set the stage for the next generation. Most careers in technology were off limits to women only just a few years ago.

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