Women Techmakers: 10 Tips to succeed in career

Women techmakers – ambitious and talented women – are breaking through the barriers of the tech industry.   

In this article, we'll explore the essential qualities and strategies that make women techmakers successful, from taking on challenging projects to building a strong network. 

Whether you're just starting out in tech or looking to take your career to the next level, these insights will help you thrive and make a positive impact on your careers.

Take on challenging projects

Identify areas where you want to grow, whether it's learning a new programming language or gaining more experience in a specific area of tech.

Set clear goals for the project and establish a realistic timeline for completion. This will help you stay focused and motivated, and give you a clear sense of progress as you work towards your objectives.

Break down the project into smaller, manageable tasks to make it more approachable. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed, and allow you to focus on one task at a time.

Seek out leadership opportunities

Build leadership skills by attending training programs or workshops, reading leadership books, or taking online courses.

Look for opportunities to lead projects or initiatives within your current job or volunteer for leadership positions in industry-related organisations.

Seek out opportunities to speak at industry events or conferences, sharing your insights and expertise with others.

Keep learning

Join a study group or community of learners who share your interests and can support your learning journey.

Get feedback and evaluate your progress regularly to adjust your learning plan as needed.

Collaborate with colleagues on projects to learn from their experiences and develop new skills.

Advocate for yourself and your ideas

Prepare your ideas. Before you pitch your ideas to your colleagues or managers, make sure you have a solid understanding of what you are proposing. Do your research, gather data to support your ideas, and prepare a clear and concise pitch that highlights the benefits of your proposal.

Present your ideas in a clear and concise manner during the meetings. Be open to feedback and questions, and be prepared to address any concerns or objections.

Follow up with your colleagues or manager after the meeting to see if there are any next steps or actions to take. If your ideas were well received, ask if there is an opportunity to move forward with implementation.

Role Models and Mentors

Seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your career in tech. This might be senior leaders in your organisation or industry, or other women who have similar experiences and can provide advice based on their own experiences.

Reach out and establish a relationship. Regular check-ins, asking for advice or feedback on specific challenges you are facing, or simply keeping in touch and sharing updates on your progress.

Learn from the experiences of your mentor or role model. Ask questions, listen to their insights, and try to apply their advice and guidance to your own career.

Build your brand

Define your personal brand by identifying your unique strengths, values, and passions.

Create a personal website that showcases your work, achievements, and expertise. Make sure the website is professional, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.

Establish a social media presence on platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Use these platforms to share your insights, engage with other professionals, and build your network.

Create a strong network

Join professional organisations, such as Women in Technology International (WITI), or the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), to network with other professionals and gain exposure to new opportunities.

Attend networking events specifically geared towards women in tech.

Consider participating in hackathons to collaborate with other professionals and gain exposure to new technologies.

Supportive work environment

Promote work-life balance by encouraging your collegues to take breaks, disconnect from work after hours, and prioritise their mental and physical health.

Foster a culture of collaboration by encouraging open communication, team building, and knowledge sharing.

Encourage work autonomy by empowering collegues to make decisions and take ownership of their work.

Ask for help if needed

Identify the specific area where you need help, whether it's a technical challenge, a career-related question, or a personal matter that's affecting your work.

Reach out to the person or people with a clear and concise message explaining your request for help. Be specific about the type of help you need and why you think they might be able to provide it.

Ask for their advice or insights, and listen actively to their feedback during the meeting or conversation. Be open and honest about your situation and your goals.

Be proud of your achievements

Keep track of your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. This could include completing a project ahead of schedule, solving a difficult coding challenge, or receiving positive feedback from a colleague or supervisor.

Build a portfolio of your work, including projects, code snippets, and any other accomplishments you are proud of. Use this portfolio to showcase your skills and achievements to potential employers or clients.

Recognize and appreciate the contributions of others who helped you achieve your successes. This will not only help build stronger relationships but also inspire others to celebrate their successes.