The number of women in tech has grown steadily in recent years, but gender parity is still a long off. To date, women remain underrepresented and discriminated against despite the time and effort many tech companies have put into properly addressing calls for diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace.
As International Women’s Day comes around (March 8), we want to take the opportunity to challenge stereotypes and draw attention to bias.
To do this, we sat down with five women in Thoughtworks with different levels of experience, working in a diverse range of roles to ask them about the challenges they have faced and their insights and tips on overcoming them.
Isaree Pirom-opas is a Project Manager with years of working experience across various domains. She is passionate about maximizing business value through technology. You can find her taking care of projects on the weekdays and hitting the gym and spa on the weekends.
Mare Phermsuwan is a seasoned Business Analyst with strong analytical skills who loves to explore new territory during her free time.
Kanrayanin Poonsinburanakul is an Experience Designer and a cocktail enthusiast.
Niramol Mongkonlikitkajohn is a Quality Analyst with a passion for bug hunting and online shopping.
Chonticha Pongjit is a developer and a career switcher who likes to spend time in the kitchen.
Tackling stereotypes
What are some of the worst gender-norms and stereotypes that you've heard said about being women in tech?
Isaree: Being told to “put up with it as guys do”.
Parima: That men are better at logical thinking than women.
Kanrayanin: When I told others that I used to be a programmer, people thought that I was kidding.
Niramol: The idea that women are more meticulous than men.
What challenges have you faced? Or continue to face? And how did you handle them?
Niramol: I had to make a lot of adjustments, be it technical skills, ways of working or language when transitioning into Thoughtworks. So, I asked for advice from coworkers and family. I might not have figured out a way to change my perspective this fast if I didn’t talk with those around me.
One of the challenges that I’ve faced is the feeling of being unconfident at work. For instance, it’s hard when I’m trying to make a decision where most of my teammates tend to accept only men’s opinions. So, I tried to stop overthinking and just do my best, because I know my worth and I encourage you to believe in yourself too!
One of the challenges that I’ve faced is the feeling of being unconfident at work. For instance, it’s hard when I’m trying to make a decision where most of my teammates tend to accept only men’s opinions. So, I tried to stop overthinking and just do my best, because I know my worth and I encourage you to believe in yourself too!
The importance of equity
Why is it important for companies to embrace equity?
Chonticha: It’s important because women’s voices should be normalized in all aspects of society. Women should be given an equal chance to achieve their dreams and goals. They shouldn’t be restricted from their career choices because men dominate that industry.
The reason we have to embrace equity is that today's industry does not really have it. Embracing equity should not only be the company's marketing campaign. There are so many people who are suffering from exclusivity be it ethnicity, race, gender or religion. If you ask someone in this society whether they have experienced or heard of exclusivity in the workplace, the answer will absolutely be yes. This should not be the norm; we all should embrace equality and inclusivity. Speak out for you and for all.
The reason we have to embrace equity is that today's industry does not really have it. Embracing equity should not only be the company's marketing campaign. There are so many people who are suffering from exclusivity be it ethnicity, race, gender or religion. If you ask someone in this society whether they have experienced or heard of exclusivity in the workplace, the answer will absolutely be yes. This should not be the norm; we all should embrace equality and inclusivity. Speak out for you and for all.
Isaree: The question should be, ‘why not?’ We have long acknowledged the impact of inequity in the workplace. We have learned how society has shifted for the better and how things have improved. Nowadays, companies are also ramping up their DEI efforts. We, as individuals, should come together and take a serious look at how we can take part to create a greater impact.
Confidence and passion
Some women are reluctant to pursue careers in technology. What advice would you give them? Do you have any golden tips or survival tricks?
Isaree: Give what you love and are passionate about a chance, everything is possible! When feeling down, Jim Carrey’s speech helps to give me a quick burst of motivation. He said: “My father could have been a great comedian, but he didn’t believe that that was possible for him. And so he made a conservative choice. Instead, he got a safe job as an accountant. And when I was 12 years old, he was let go from that safe job and our family had to do whatever we could to survive. I learned many great lessons from my father, not the least of which was that you can fail at what you don’t want so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love."
The range of roles and specializations in tech are extensive. There are many jobs i.e. design, testing, sales and marketing, operations, delivery etc. that don’t require coding. If you have a passion for tech, turn it to your full time career.
What motto, quote or mantra do you have that boosts your confidence?
Chonticha: If they can do it, then I can do it too!
Parima: You don’t have to know everything, you just have to find a way to figure it out!
Niramol: If we get through this, we will be more competent.
Kanrayanin: The road may be bumpy with many twists and turns. But don’t give up. Open up your mind and try your best. One day you will reach your destination.
Isaree: Even the smartest person on earth can fail, so don’t fear trying.
Thanks to all who contributed.
Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Thoughtworks.
