Technical Credibility Challenges

Women in software engineering sometimes have to work harder to prove their technical competencies and leadership skills due to biases and stereotypes. This continuous need to prove oneself can be exhausting and discouraging.

Women in software engineering sometimes have to work harder to prove their technical competencies and leadership skills due to biases and stereotypes. This continuous need to prove oneself can be exhausting and discouraging.

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Anna Radulovski
CEO at WomenTech Network
Wed, 07/10/2024 - 16:35

Women in software engineering often face a tough road when it comes to proving their technical skills and leadership abilities. This challenge stems from deep-rooted biases and stereotypes that unfairly question their competencies. Constantly needing to prove themselves can be draining and discouraging, making career advancement more difficult. This is something many women leaders in tech have shared with me recently.

One of the most practical and powerful tips is to advocate for yourself. This can be a game-changer in overcoming biases and moving forward in your career.

Start with Documenting Your Achievements:
Think of this as your personal highlight reel. Keep track of all your accomplishments, big and small. Did you lead a successful project? Learn a new coding language? Helped streamline a process that saved your team time? Write it all down. Keeping a detailed record not only helps you remember your achievements but also provides solid evidence of your contributions when you need to discuss them with your boss.

Here's a Tip: Make it a habit to update this list regularly. Set a reminder to jot down your achievements at the end of each week or month. This way, you won't forget any significant contributions.

Use Your Highlight Reel During Reviews:
When it’s time for performance reviews or promotion discussions, bring this list with you. Be prepared to walk through your contributions, demonstrating how you've added value to your team and organization. This makes it easier to make a strong case for a raise, a promotion, or even just more significant projects.

Practice Your Pitch:
Just like you would prepare for a job interview, practice talking about your achievements confidently. You don't want to sound like you're bragging, but you do want to be clear and assertive about the value you bring to the table. Practice with a friend, mentor, or even in front of a mirror.

Research Industry Standards:
Know what your peers in similar roles at other companies are earning. Websites like Glassdoor and Payscale can be useful for this. Having this information can help you make a more compelling case for fair compensation based on industry standards.

Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate:
Many people feel uncomfortable with negotiation, but it’s a crucial skill. Remember, negotiation isn’t just about salary. It can include flexible working hours, opportunities for professional development, or other benefits. Approach it as a discussion where both parties are looking to find a mutually beneficial agreement.

In the words of many executive leaders, advocating for yourself isn't just about pushing for what you deserve. It's about recognizing your worth and ensuring others recognize it too. By confidently showcasing your achievements and negotiating for what you deserve, you can overcome biases and advance your career in tech.

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