5 tips on navigating a career in tech as a woman of color
Unlike many Indian families, mine never forced me to study engineering or medicine because that was the status quo. Instead, I was encouraged to read, write, and choose a vocation of my choice. A choice that I have not regretted to date and has helped me forge a career in advertising, and now in tech. However, my path has been interesting and the pivots I have taken have helped me understand my strengths that are not limited by any industry. I have also had to learn how to advocate for myself and take a seat at the table as being a woman of color is not really the norm in the tech industry. Here are some observations and insights from that journey that I wish to share with other women of color.
1. You are more than just your “experience”
When I first applied to marketing jobs with my advertising background, all I got were automated rejection emails. It almost made me believe that I missed my spot on the “tech train”. But that is such a far cry from the truth. After getting my MBA degree and interning at a Fortune 500 company, I realized that it was my storytelling skills that I acquired in my agency career that helps me stand out. Remember, skills can always be learned and transferred.
2. Liberal arts are important to tech
Scott Hartley, in his book “The Fuzzy and the Techie”, speaks about the false divide between STEM and the humanities, that has led to a false assumption among many that people with liberal arts degrees do not really “belong” in tech.
I may not be an engineer, but I very well know how to empathize with customers and learn their pain points to create value propositions and sell a product, no matter how technical it is.
Tech companies have jobs that require talent from a variety of backgrounds like English literature, Journalism, Design, and Psychology. Some job positions that require non-tech degrees are Product Marketing, UI/UX design, Content Marketing, Product Management and Sales etc.
3. Be open to advice, but don’t believe every piece of advice you get
Advice is great, especially when it is tangible and actionable. I remember someone once told me that I cannot aim for a senior position because my experience from India did not “count.” I knew that would never define me. I ended up applying for that position after a few months and got the job.
Learn to discern between advice that is useful and advice that is not. A recent Harvard Business Review article explores how women are over-mentored and under-sponsored. Find mentors who not only help you steer your path but also advocate for you. Be aggressive for opportunities even if your qualifications fall short. And never believe someone who says that you are not “qualified”.
4. Find allies
We all know that diversity is not the tech industry's strongest suite, but your journey does not have to be lonely. There are many organizations that can help you grow, find your voice, and find allies in the tech industry. For me, it was the Products by Women group started by Naimeesha Murthy, an immigrant and a woman of color herself. An inclusive group of product marketers, entrepreneurs, product managers, and data scientists, this group helped me network with so many trailblazing leaders. I have prepared for interviews, asked for referrals, sought a mentor and also found job opportunities through this group. The representation I sought for so long was finally here and continues to help me be successful in my career.
5. Overcome bias
Bias still remains a huge point of contention in the tech industry, even after so many companies investing in anti-bias training each year. As a woman, I have had instances where I had to “prove” my ideas and also had my commitments questioned. It is unfortunate, but I have learned, over time, that, along with addressing these biases, one has to also learn how to actively overcome then. Treat them like unworthy distractions standing on your way to success. Some things that have helped in doing so are:
Actively interview with organizations with a diverse team and make sure that the “culture” fits with your mindset and background
Call out behavior that is not okay
Consult with mentors from your diverse network of allies
Never let anyone decide your worth
Like any important process, one needs to be patient and re-evaluate choices. I have pivoted many times based on situations and people that are beyond my control, but I have always stayed true to my goal. Remember, it is a marathon and not a sprint.
Products by Women X Parachute Media: This article was written in collaboration with Products by Women, a global mentorship and professional development community for women tech.
Header Graphics: Katey Williams
