The tech industry is a rapidly changing and growing field that is greatly in need of diversity and inclusivity. Despite the tide of progress achieved since 1970 – when only four percent of female workers populated the sector – today, it stands at just twenty-seven percent. While this is seen as a step in the right direction, it’s important to note that the majority of positions are still held by male employees and fewer than one in twenty leadership roles are held by women of color. To foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce, it requires recognition from both leaders and individual contributors to actively promote it.
Organizations need to be aware of the current demographics and representation in their industry, as well as create a strong onboarding process for newcomers that includes introducing them to their coworkers and giving them the opportunity to build meaningful relationships. Senior leadership must be accountable for maintaining an inclusive culture and should participate in training, re-training, and evaluating practices. Building diversity programs or creating team events such as Slack channels for LBGTQ+ employees, ERGs for women in tech, or focusing on employee resource groups are all ways to foster workplace inclusion.
On July 11th-12th, 2020, Join top executives in San Francisco to hear how leaders are integrating and optimizing AI investments for success. Having a diverse group of executives present, attending and leading discussions on both diversity and how to utilize AI investments optimally will help to set a standard and encourage businesses to promote more inclusion in their business.
For example, Brad Smith, the President of Microsoft, has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry and a leader in the Black Lives Matter Movement. His commitment to the cause has brought awareness not only to Microsoft, but to the tech industry as a whole.
It is essential for us to come together and do what we can to make sure that representation of underserved groups are given the opportunity to succeed in the tech industry and throughout every level of business. Through diverse conversations and a dedication from each other, we can help build a more welcoming, inclusive, and equitable environment for all.
