International Women’s Day, celebrated each year on March 8, is a global day dedicated to recognizing women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality. The day celebrates the progress that has been made toward gender equality and parity. At the same time, it also recognizes the work that still needs to be done to ensure that women have equal rights and opportunities.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is #EmbraceEquity, highlighting the importance of challenging gender bias and inequality in all areas of life. Here, we have compiled career tips and advice specifically for women in tech from some of our very own women leaders at Snowplow.
Emily Bedford, Head of Product Management
“Many people experience feelings of inadequacy, or ‘imposter syndrome’ at points in their career, particularly women in tech. Finding a role model who can provide advice can help to build your self-confidence and give you the right tools to navigate your way through. By lifting each other up and helping each other to succeed. I have worked for companies in the past where female rivalry was very prevalent; it’s a miserable environment to work in and detracts from equality & inclusion.”
Elisa Erriquez, Senior Product Manager
“My advice to women in tech is the importance of having a mentor (and a sponsor) in a heavily dominated male industry, which will help you get noticed in the wider organization and is also a way to change the culture from the inside by influencing your own mentor. Don’t underestimate your own current leadership skills or try to be ‘like men.’ You don’t need to display toxic masculinity traits to progress! Show your value and don’t be afraid to promote yourself.
Sam Welch, VP of Finance
“My recommendation for women developing their leadership style is to be true to themselves and stick to their values. It is much easier to be successful as a leader when you’re focusing on the matters at hand that move the business forwards, rather than worrying what other people think of them.”
Angelina Draper, Head of Communications
“Leadership comes in many shapes and sizes, but the first step to becoming a successful leader is to recognize (and then embrace) our unique strengths and style. Some leaders are vocal and visible, while others lead quietly from the sidelines. When we know what our style is, we can develop it and use it at work in a way that complements other leadership styles.”
Karen Lewis, Head of Customer Success Management
“Women often index highly on self-awareness and how they are perceived by others – and by virtue of that are often reluctant to showcase and take recognition for achievements. My advice to women in STEM is to identify and be your own advocate; celebrate your wins and that of your team, hoping to be recognized by others is not a strategy.
As for the next generation of female leaders, remember to embrace your uniqueness! Have confidence and instill power in your voice that will nod to emotional intelligence, empathy, inclusiveness, modesty and building human connections to make people feel valued. Never apologize for being female, and don’t pander to just please others.”
Daniela Howard, Head of Product & Partner Marketing
“My advice to women in tech is to listen to your intuition. More often than not, your instinct on projects, direction, strategy is correct so stay firm and strong. In addition, the path for women in tech leadership has been forged and it is yours to take. There is plenty of progress to still be made but don’t wait for anyone to give you anything. Ask for what you want and work hard.”
Jillian Clancy, Head of Global Sales Development
“The best way to strive for better pay equality is to do your research! Look at comparable job requirements and salaries for similar roles at a variety of companies. Understand all of the firmographic details – geography, seniority title, company funding, etc. – and always negotiate your salary. Don’t be afraid to ask what your male counterparts are making. And always make sure you’re reporting to someone who you believe is truly in your corner. They will be going to bat with you.”
Charlotte Ward, Head of Support
“Keep fighting the good fight! Build an active and varied network inside and outside of your current organization. Talk over your ideas and challenges wherever you can. It will help you make connections between thoughts that are unique to you and your accumulated experiences. That’s what will make you effective. It’s far more important than a ‘brand’.”
Kathryn Hainsworth, Head of Talent
“Never stop learning and embed yourself within the industry. Networks and peers in similar roles or industry will play amazing roles as allys as you develop throughout your career.”
