"There is a Special Place in Hell for Women Who Do Not Help Other Women." ~ Madeleine Albright

In the ever-evolving world of business, especially in the fast-paced IT sector, the importance of mutual support among women cannot be overstated. Historically, women have faced significant barriers in entering and thriving in the tech industry. However, by fostering a culture of support and collaboration, women can break through these barriers and pave the way for future generations. In this context, Madeleine Albright’s (former U.S. Secretary of State) words remind us of the importance of mutual support and solidarity among women.

Yet, there is still a long way to go before women have equal standing to men in the business world. Statistics show that only 25 out of the Fortune 500 companies have female CEOs. While the number is growing year on year, Grant Thornton found that as of March 2019, only 29% of senior management roles are held by women globally.

Women face numerous challenges in the workplace, including assumptions about family and career goals. So, what can women do to help themselves get ahead in the business world? The answer overwhelmingly seems to be: support each other.

The Power of Networking

Networking is crucial in any field, but for women in IT, it can be a game-changer. By building strong professional networks, women can share valuable insights, opportunities, and resources. Networking events, mentorship programs, and online communities provide platforms for women to connect, share experiences, and offer support. These connections can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and even lifelong friendships.

The Power of Mentorship

Women can support each other through more than just networking. Those in high-powered positions can mentor other women at their workplace or even just offer a safe space for open communication about the issues women face. This can help women realize that they are not alone in their problems and that these are systematic and collective obstacles that can be fought together.

Experienced women in IT have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be invaluable to those just starting their careers. By offering mentorship and guidance, they can help younger professionals navigate the challenges of the industry. Mentorship relationships provide a safe space for learning and growth, where mentees can gain confidence and develop the skills needed to succeed.

Advocacy and Representation

Women in business should advocate for each other, especially in environments where they are underrepresented. By supporting each other’s ideas, promoting each other’s achievements, and standing up against gender bias, women can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Representation matters, and when women see other women succeeding in IT, it inspires and motivates them to pursue their own ambitions.

Overcoming Competition

In a field as competitive as IT, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing other women as rivals. However, embracing a mindset of collaboration over competition can lead to greater success for all. By working together on projects, sharing knowledge, and celebrating each other’s successes, women can build a stronger, more supportive community.

Creating Opportunities

Women in leadership positions have the power to create opportunities for others. By hiring, promoting, and advocating for women, they can help to close the gender gap in IT. Additionally, supporting initiatives that encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in technology can have a lasting impact on the industry.

Many women in power are already implementing schemes like these in their workplaces. Hiltrud Werner has set up a mentoring system at Volkswagen for the advancement of women, and it seems to be working well. Women have reported being able to openly discuss issues in a hierarchy-free environment, and Hiltrud has noted that the number of female managers on her team has risen by 10% since she started. Similarly, Gillian Tans, CEO of Booking.com , has set up a Women in Tech initiative focusing on providing mentorship and scholarships for women pursuing STEM degrees. Gillian highlights that there aren’t enough women in tech roles, and the opportunity to rectify that could truly change the world.

Conclusion

Madeleine Albright's words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of female solidarity and mutual support. In a world where women still face numerous challenges, supporting each other is not just desirable but essential. Let's take action: mentor a colleague, join a professional network, advocate for your peers, and create opportunities for the women around you. By working together, we can overcome any obstacle and build a more equitable and inclusive society for all.