It is easy to argue that the tech industry has a gender diversity problem. And that employers must do more to make themselves attractive to women.

As we look to a future shaped by AI however, change cannot happen soon enough.

More women need to take a risk – putting aside what they’ve heard about tech – by backing themselves to claim a seat at the table. Only then can we help shape an equitable future.

I joined the industry almost 20 years ago, when women made up just 9% of the tech workforce.

During that time, there have – of course – been attempts to pigeonhole me, with suggestions my gender made me more suitable for some roles instead of others.

At Pipeline360, I feel proud that we have created a company culture which is shaped by the needs of our whole team.

Critically, our policies to promote equal opportunities cover the entire employment process, right from a potential hire expressing interest.

An organisation might be taking positive steps to improve diversity, equity and inclusion, but if they are not making a concerted effort to be transparent about these, then the industry will continue to struggle in attracting the female talent it needs.

It might sound simple, but I have found that having open conversations about policies like flexible working early in the interview process has helped candidates understand our company culture, in turn helping us to find a much more diverse set of candidates.

This is only one part of the story, however.

So often, confidence plays a role in preventing women from applying to tech positions.

While men are traditionally more likely to back themselves for a role, I have seen many well-qualified, incredibly talented women in tech rule themselves out.

This self-doubt – often rooted in our own cultural conditioning – can prevent us from seizing opportunities, despite our ability and our passion to create change.

It may be easier said than done, but we cannot afford to let this hold us back.

We need enterprising young women to back themselves and push forward, while senior women like myself need to provide the support and mentorship that allows that to happen.

We have to embrace the challenge and raise the bar. There is no time to wait when it comes to gender diversity.

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