As a career, IT has a great many benefits to offer employees. Unfortunately, many women, in particular, struggle in the IT field. Not only do they face barriers that most men don’t face but they also have to deal with the stigma of being a woman in IT.
That begs the question: how can a woman have a successful career working in IT? We’re going to cover that question in detail below, helping you forge the IT career you deserve.
Find a Mentor
Our first piece of advice is to find a mentor. Find a woman who’s already thriving in the IT field and consult with her on a regular basis as you progress in your career. A mentor will not only provide you with moral support but will also give you tips and advice on particular situations. They’ve already done much of the hard work. So, by consulting with them, you can make the experience easier for yourself.
Consider Different Careers
There are all sorts of careers in IT. While it’s best to pursue one and become an expert in it (for optimal earning power), that doesn’t mean you should have tunnel vision in the beginning. You should explore different IT careers so that you can choose the one that best suits your skills and interests. Otherwise, you could find yourself 10 years down the road stuck in a career that’s not truly fulfilling to you.
There are all sorts of IT careers to pursue, from web developer to software engineer to systems engineer to security analyst and more. Do your research and make an informed choice.
Always Be Networking
Networking is important in any career. In IT, however, it can be vital in facilitating advancement. The more people you know in the field, and the stronger your connections are with these people, the better chance you have at nabbing high-earning opportunities.
So, stay active on LinkedIn. Go to IT conferences. Join IT groups on social media platforms. Put yourself out there and expand your reach within the industry.
Maintain a Life Outside of Work
Tech careers can be time-consuming. It’s not uncommon for IT professionals to work 45, 50, and sometimes even 60-hour weeks. Unfortunately, this often leads to burnout.
This is why it’s vital for you to maintain a life outside of work. Make sure that you’re arranging regular meetups with your friends. Ensure that you have hobbies to partake in. Also, be sure to schedule some downtime every once in a while.
Advance Your Skills
In the IT world, technology is ever-changing. Therefore, as a tech professional, it’s vital that you perpetually advance your skills. You can’t become complacent. You need to keep up with the changes in your industry, and then adjust accordingly.
A Woman Can Have a Successful Career in IT
While the prospect may be intimidating, the fact remains: a woman can have a successful career in IT. Just put these tips into action, and, soon enough, you’ll be reaping the rewards of a fulfilling IT career.