Over the course of the day, speakers covered a diverse number of topics that ranged from personal development to shaping the future of tech. There was a strong focus on the issue of how to heal the gender schism within the tech industry and how to onboard others to champion diversification.

Several of the speakers, all prominent members of the Scottish tech community, shared their insights and practical tips on networking, self-development, and how to progress within the tech environment. With 28 presentations, 34 speakers and 400 plus attendees the Women in Tech series enjoyed a record turnout.

Embrace the Unknown and Stop Comparing

A key theme that threaded its way throughout the day was the essential need for women to embrace the unknown in their career and to get outside of their ‘comfort zone’. To succeed in the tech industry, an ever-evolving environment, women need to be curious, willing to learn and ready to adapt. As Lynsey Campbell, Chair of the Scotland Women in Technology Awards, said: “You’ve got to keep leaping”.

Similarly, they should not be afraid to ask questions when they are unsure. At times, acronyms or technical terms can be used to intimidate or to make others feel small within the office environment. Therefore, it is important to ask questions, be honest, proactive and unafraid to own mistakes. Annemieke Frank Co-Founder of EduHeroes explained that courage and authenticity are key traits women should embrace to nourish their own leadership journey.

In addition to this, several speakers reinforced the message that women need to stop comparing themselves to their peers. There should be an acceptance that no two experiences are the same and everyone brings something unique to the table. Furthermore, this habit of self-comparison is damaging to their self-confidence and stops them from focusing on their strengths, which they should build on and use as tools to progress.

Diverse Companies Are More Profitable

According to a 2017 McKinsey report, globally women represent 50% of the world’s working-age population but generate only 37% of GDP. The same report estimates that $12 trillion could be added to the global GDP by 2025 by closing the gender gap. Additionally, it would add 240 million workers to the world’s labour force by 2025.

Not addressing the issue of diversification is something Scotland’s economy cannot afford. Aside from the worsening digital skills shortage, there is a risk that future services and products will not be representative of society. Furthermore, it has been shown that diverse companies tend to be more productive, innovative and profitable.

Encouraging diversity should not be something companies have to do but something they want to do. Derrick McCourt, General Manager Customer Success Unit, says that by discovering a company or individual’s “why motivator” others can be brought onboard to champion change. By demonstrating the value and tangible benefits of diversification it will be easier to foster equality and create a welcoming inclusive work environment.

Several of the speakers brought up the problem of retaining women in the workplace. Worryingly the average female career in tech spans only 12.5 years, after which many opt to change career path due to the work environment.

These same issues are one of the reasons many women are put off seeking a career in tech. There is a justifiable perception that it is not gender inclusive. However, although there is no one solution to the issue by implementing the changes mentioned companies can start progressing towards a more hospitable work space. Offering flexible working and a programme to help women returning from maternity leave have been shown help the recruitment and retention rate of women working in the tech sector.

Demystifying Tech

Misperceptions about what it means to work in technology is another issue that needs to be rectified. Often when children or teens are asked what they think working in tech entails most reply being a programmer, which to them seems unappealing.

Sharon Moor MBE, CTO Travel and Transportation at IBM says it is important that role models and teachers articulate and demonstrate to the next generation that tech is a much broader field with more roles and opportunities. Unless this happens, the talent pipeline will only continue to narrow and in turn contribute to the digital skills gap and widen the gender chasm.

Several times throughout the day it was reiterated that collaboration and open dialogue from both women and men is the only way to improve gender equality. Speakers warned that without cooperation and openness the status quo could potentially regress making for a bleak future digital economy.

Next year, the Women in Tech series will host its Women of Silicon Roundabout event at ExCeL London on the 25th and 26th of June – tickets are already available to purchase online.