It’s a public knowledge that the tech industry is dominated by men. Women only hold about a quarter of all jobs in the tech sector, and even fewer occupy top positions. This gender imbalance has led to allegations of workplace discrimination against women in tech. According to an online survey among full-time professionals working within the UK tech industry conducted by Studio Graphene and an independent research agency, 49% of women experienced some form of workplace discrimination, and 20% have resigned in the past because of discrimination or harassment in the workplace.
Here are the 3 Common discrimination scenarios women in tech face:
Being passed over for a promotion in favor of a less-qualified man
Studies have shown that women are less likely to be promoted than men, even when they are equally qualified. And in male-dominated industries like tech, the problem is even worse. Women in tech are often passed over for promotions in favor of less-qualified men. This is not only unfair, but it also reinforces the idea that women are not as capable as men in this field. The above-mentioned research findings are significant because they highlight extensive, underlying problems in the industry that may discourage women from pursuing careers in this field
Receiving lower pay than a male colleague doing the same job
ILOSTAT data shows that women are less likely than men to be employed in the technology sector, and when they are employed, they usually get paid less. Women have long been underpaid in the workforce relative to their male counterparts. A survey of tech employees in the U.S. found that, regardless of educational background of women, the gender gap in salaries remains wide open. The most notable salary difference was between men and women with "some college" where women reported a median salary of USD72,000 while men's was USD107,000. Even for those with advanced doctoral or professional degrees, there was still a 12% difference USD144,250 for women compared to USD161,000 for men. This disparity is even worse for women of color. The Gender Pay Gap is an insidious form of discrimination that not only shafts women out of hard-earned money, but also robs them of opportunities to advance their careers and provide for their families. Fortunately, there are ways for women to become more vocal about problems they encounter in tech such as closing the Gender Pay Gap and ensuring that all workers are treated fairly. By raising awareness of the problem and fighting for equal pay legislation, we can finally level the playing field for women in the workforce.
Being sexualized or harassed by colleagues or clients
Women in tech industries have long been subjected to workplace harassment and discrimination. In recent years, the problem has gained more public attention, with high-profile cases making headlines. However, the problem is still widespread, and many women feel they have no recourse. One of the most common issues faced by women in tech is being sexualized or harassed by colleagues or clients. This can take many forms, from comments or jokes about their appearance to unwanted touching or advances. Women often feel trapped in these situations, as speaking up could jeopardize their careers. Unfortunately, this kind of behavior is all too common in tech workplaces, and it underscores the need for better policies and procedures to protect women from workplace harassment.
No woman should have to experience the discrimination and harassment that is unfortunately very present in the tech industry. We’re on a mission to empower women in technology and we need your help. Join us as a Global Ambassador and help us create change.