Empowering women in tech: Bridging the digital skills shortage
The lack of female representation is leaving much work to do
As the technology industry continues to grow, the demand for top tech talent increases- except we're lacking enough trained candidates to fill the job roles. The digital skills crisis is here to stay and it's causing major issues for businesses that are trying to keep up with the pace of the industry. But what is contributing to the ever-growing digital skills gap?
Only 24% of the UK tech workforce is female with just 5% in leadership roles. The lack of female representation across all job roles and skill levels is leaving much work to do to close the digital skills gap in the UK and businesses must re-evaluate their working models to attract, and retain more female talent.
Bridging the digital skills shortage
The digital skills shortage is a complicated problem that requires addressing a wide range of factors to solve it, such as better education and training opportunities.
Many people lack the training to develop their digital skills and there is a common misconception that digital skills are only required in tech roles, when in reality they are becoming increasingly important in almost every industry and every job role. In fact, 82% of jobs in the UK list digital skills as a requirement.
A key factor in limiting the number of women in tech is a lack of relatable role models in the industry. Forty eight percent of women view a lack of mentors as the primary barrier closely followed by the lack of role models at 42%. Ultimately, the dearth of visible role models for young girls affects their interest and confidence in tech subjects, preventing them from entering careers in it.
It's important for businesses to encourage women into tech because they will play an essential role in solving the skills gap, and their involvement is critical for the continued growth and success of the industry. Without female involvement, the tech industry would miss out on the valuable contributions and diverse perspectives that they bring to the table, limiting many careers, and holding back businesses and the wider economy.
Ultimately, companies with more women in leadership roles tend to have higher profitability and better quality customer experience.
Commitment to diversity and inclusion
In order to bridge the digital skills gap, businesses must commit to improving diversity and inclusion to attract a wider talent pool and encourage more women into the industry.
Empowering women into the industry is a collective responsibility. While women can empower themselves through education and training, companies and male counterparts play a crucial role by providing equal opportunities and acting as allies, creating a more inclusive environment.
It's vital for businesses to promote inclusion through their hiring practices to create a supportive work environment where women can thrive. Encouraging women into leadership positions also plays a crucial role in creating more visibility for women to serve as mentors and role models, inspiring others and helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities in tech.
Introducing gender-neutral recruitment processes and diversity committees are steps that can be taken to create a supportive environment where women can feel valued and succeed. By encouraging collaboration and providing opportunities for functional learning, businesses can further enhance diversity while driving innovation.
Tips for women in tech
There are endless tips for women looking to enter tech, but ultimately it comes down to breaking boundaries in an industry that lacks female representation. Women believing in themselves is the strongest, most powerful tool that shouldn't be underestimated. Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common feelings among women, but every experience is a learning opportunity. Embrace mistakes as a lesson learnt and focus on moving forward and progressing, instead of dwelling on the past.
Empowerment, innovation and growth
Promoting gender diversity in the tech industry is essential for driving innovation and business success. By ensuring inclusivity, companies benefit from a range of perspectives which leads to better decision-making, adaptability, and ultimately profitability. Encouraging more women into tech not only addresses the digital skills shortage by gaining more people into the workforce, but also creates a more dynamic industry landscape.
Sheila Flavell CBE, is chief operating officer at FDM Group