Why Mentorship Alone Isn’t Enough for Women in Tech

Women in tech continue to face unique challenges, from underrepresentation in leadership roles to a lack of visibility for promotions and high-impact projects. In mentorship vs sponsorship, mentorship has long been encouraged as a way to support career growth, it’s only part of the equation. However sponsorship is the missing piece that many women overlook, but it can be the key to unlocking real career advancement.

So, what’s the difference between mentorship vs sponsorship, and why do women in tech need both? Let’s break it down.

Mentorship vs Sponsorship: What’s the Difference?

It’s probably helpful at this point to distinguish between Mentorship and Sponsorship for those who don’t know the difference.

Mentorship: Guidance, Advice, and Support

A mentor is someone who provides guidance, shares experiences, and helps navigate workplace challenges. They offer advice on career development, work-life balance, and skill-building. Mentors are invaluable for:

• Offering insights on professional growth
• Providing constructive feedback
• Helping with confidence-building and navigating workplace culture
• Sharing lessons from their own experiences

However, mentorship alone has its limitations. While mentors offer guidance, they don’t always have the influence to actively advocate for you in key career moments.

Sponsorship: Advocacy, Visibility, and Career Advancement

A sponsor is someone in a position of power who actively advocates for your career progression. Unlike mentors who advise from the sidelines, sponsors use their influence to:

• Recommend you for promotions, leadership roles, and high-profile projects
• Open doors to new career opportunities
• Advocate for your salary increases and career advancement
• Help build your credibility within the organization

While a mentor helps you strategise, a sponsor helps you get a seat at the table.

Why Women in Tech Need Both

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry

Despite progress, women in tech often face biases that limit their career growth. Mentors can help women navigate these challenges, while sponsors actively challenge the status quo by advocating for their success.

Increasing Representation in Leadership

Sponsorship is critical for increasing the number of women in leadership roles. Studies show that men are more likely to have sponsors than women, which contributes to the leadership gap. Women need sponsors who will champion their growth and help them move up the career ladder.

Gaining Access to High-Impact Opportunities

Women in STEM fields often get stuck in support roles rather than high-impact, revenue-generating projects. A sponsor can ensure that talented women are given opportunities to showcase their skills and lead important initiatives.

Building a Strong Professional Network

Having a mentor can help build confidence and skills, but having a sponsor expands your professional network and exposes you to influential decision-makers who can elevate your career.

How to Find Mentors and Sponsors

If you’re a woman in tech looking to advance your career, here’s how you can build relationships with both mentors and sponsors:

Seek out mentors within your industry who can provide guidance and share their experiences. These can be leaders in your company, industry professionals, or even peer mentors.

Identify potential sponsors, leaders who recognise your talent and can advocate for your growth. Build a strong professional reputation, consistently deliver excellent work, and seek opportunities to engage with influential leaders.

Be intentional in networking. Attend women in tech conferences, join professional networks, and actively participate in discussions that highlight your expertise.

Communicate your career goals. Sponsors need to know your ambitions so they can help position you for opportunities that align with your aspirations.

Women in tech deserve not just advice, but advocacy.  While mentors provide essential guidance, sponsors help ensure that women receive the opportunities they’ve worked hard for. By actively seeking out both, women can accelerate their careers, break barriers, and take their place as leaders in the industry.

If you’re looking for more insights on career development and advancement strategies, let’s connect. Reach out to me today to discuss how to take your career to the next level.

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“I’m really desperate!”. It’s controversial I know, but that’s how some of you are coming across by your actions when trying to change careers, dealing with career rejection or career progression.

Applying for any old job in sh*t company because it means you can say you made it into tech/got that promotion. Even when the red flags were already dangling right in front of you during the recruitment/interview/promotion process, but you pushed on regardless because getting a “yes” makes you feel validated/wanted.

Say you get it and they want you, and 6-12 months in you’re performing better than anyone expected at that stage. You’re shining and making others in your team or company look good in the process. Win win for everyone right!

Then you realise the tide has turned, something isn’t right anymore and they aren’t treating you with any level of respect you deserve and showing you they don’t value what you are bringing to the table. In some instances going to serious lengths to sabotage you right in front of your eyes.

Please please please, in 2024 can we start moving differently and focusing on the right things to get you attracting the right opportunities that actually match your values and personality. And start communicating your value, values and how you want to be treated.

Not everything is for you, and most rejections are a blessing in disguise and a redirection. You can move sideways, you can prove the suckas wrong and move above, or you can put 2 fingers up to the insecure trouble maker(s) and move right on out of there to better things. The choice is yours, but don’t just put your head in the sand.

Please know there is something positive in every lesson, and know that it’s a temporary situation. And you’ll come out stronger on the other side, if you will only bet on yourself.

The only real effective way to handle these situations is to put as much effort into building up your mindset and confidence as you do your technical skills. You can put 20, 30, 50 applications in for a role and get no where if you really don’t believe in your heart that you have something valuable to offer and constantly looking at the negatives of what you don’t have.

What about what you do have? What about all the transferrable skills that you think are not interesting or relevant to a tech company? What about the initiative you pushed through your last company that changed the way things are done and had a position impact on customers or employees? We focus so much on the bad things that have happened that we forget the positive things we achieved along the way. Can you blow your own trumpet a little please!

Inner work and positive mindset activities while you’re experiencing the roller coaster of a career change, career rejection or career progression journey are so important. Without it you’re likely fighting yourself in circles and getting no where.

More power to you!

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For many women seeking to make a career change into tech, the journey may seem both exciting and daunting, but in the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry, the possibilities are vast, and the opportunities are endless.  

The key lies not just in finding a role but in discovering where you truly fit, aligning your values and personality with your chosen tech path. 

As a Tech Career Coach and Tech professional with experience in many different roles (more recently as an Application Development Manager and former Mobile Developer), I’ve witnessed the transformative power of this alignment. 

Here’s 8 things to focus on when trying to work out a suitable tech related role and where you fit in the tech industry.

1. Self-Reflection: Unveiling Your Transferable Skills

Before diving into the multitude of tech roles, start by recognizing and celebrating your transferable skills.  Coming from a different industry doesn’t necessarily mean starting from scratch.  Consider your experiences in project management, communication, problem-solving, customer service and leadership. These skills are highly transferable and sought after in the tech world.

2. Identifying Core Values: Your North Star in Tech

Tech isn’t just about code; it’s about values. Identify your core values, the principles that guide your decisions and actions. Are you passionate about innovation, collaboration, or social impact? Understanding your values will help you align with tech roles and organisations that share your vision.

3. Exploring the Tech Landscape: Beyond Coding

Tech is a vast ecosystem with roles that extend far beyond coding. Explore areas such as product management, user experience design, project management, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more. Each role requires a unique set of skills, and finding the right fit involves understanding your strengths and interests.

4. Networking: Learn from Those Who’ve Walked the Path

Connect with women who have successfully transitioned into tech roles. Attend networking events, join online communities, and seek time to have a chat with someone.  Learning from others’ experiences can provide valuable insights and guide you in making informed decisions about your tech career.

5. Skill Development: Closing the Gap

Identify the skills required for the roles that resonate with you. Leverage online courses, workshops, and bootcamps to upskill. Many resources offer flexible learning options to accommodate career changers. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.

6. Personality Fit: Balancing Passion and Proficiency

Consider your personality traits and working preferences. Are you detail-oriented and enjoy problem-solving? A role in quality assurance or data analysis might be a great fit. If you thrive on creativity and human-centric design, exploring user experience or product management could align with your strengths. If you are a people person, a role as a scrum master may be right up your alley.

7. Test and Iterate: Embrace the Learning Journey

Making a career change is a dynamic process. Don’t be afraid to test the waters. Engage in projects, internships, or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience. As you navigate your journey, be open to iterating your path based on your evolving interests and insights.

8. Invest in yourself: Get the Right Support to Achieve Your Goal Quicker Than You Would Do On Your Own

If you are really not sure what role is for you and how to achieve your tech career goals or struggling to create a realistic plan to keep yourself focused, find a reliable career coach to support you on your journey.  Ideal a career coach with experience in the tech industry who can share those lived experiences and willing to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly, and guide you in the right direction. Rather than it being another cost to folk out, you look at the results and value they are providing and see this as an investment in yourself and your future career and lifestyle.

The tech industry is not a one-size-fits-all landscape. It’s a diverse ecosystem that thrives on the unique contributions of its professionals. Your journey into tech is a story waiting to be crafted—one that reflects your values, utilises your transferable skills, and aligns with your passions.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that the tech industry should be enriched by diversity and welcomes those who bring a fresh perspective. Your unique background and experiences are assets, and by working out where you truly fit in tech, you’re not just changing your career—you’re contributing to the vibrant tapestry of innovation. 

If you need the support of a good career coach feel free to reach out and book a discovery call via this link Only a few slots left now up to the end of the year, so book in as soon as possible to ensure this time next year your career potential looks a lot different than 2023.

Here’s to discovering your unique place in the world of tech! 

#TechCareerChange #WomenInTech #CareerTransformation

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Another discovery call out of the way earlier this week.

With a potential coaching client who needed to work where they are at now, what skills they already have that are value in the tech space and how they can fit into the tech space,

Why they are holding themselves back from getting a job in the tech space they really desire, instead of excepting more of the same.

As well as exploring how my coaching services can help them achieve their career goals within a realistic timeframe.

One bit of advice I gave was around the willingness to put themselves out there. Sometimes I wonder why we like to make things we really want harder for ourselves when we have everything we need within us to make the change we desire to see. If only you’re willing to be a bit vulnerable.

Tech Career Change Success

Are you putting yourself out there?

Have you actually told anyone that you are interested in changing to a career in tech?

How many of you are procrastinating on being more visible and sabotaging your chances of attracting the tech related job you really desire?

How many of you would be willing to highlight your successes and some of your failures, while learning something new, if the odds were slightly more your favour of attracting the opportunities you want?

In the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, where opportunities abound and innovation thrives, many women find themselves drawn to the possibility of making a career change. Whether you’re coming from a different industry or seeking to transition within tech, the power of putting yourself out there cannot be overstated.

One transformative way to do this is by consciously building a personal brand to raise your profile, documenting your journey along the way.

Here are 6 reasons why you should consider building your personal brand and why putting yourself out there is a worthwhile investment of your time and energy for tech career change success

Embracing the Visibility Challenge

The tech sector, like any other field, often poses unique challenges for women looking to carve out their niche. However, by proactively creating and curating your personal brand, you can stand out amidst the noise. This is not about conforming but about showcasing your authentic self and unique value proposition.

Breaking Through Stereotypes

In a male-dominated industry, it’s essential to break through stereotypes and let your skills and personality shine. A well-crafted personal brand can challenge preconceived notions and emphasise your capabilities, experiences, and vision for the future. Don’t be afraid to showcase your journey, highlighting the diverse skills and perspectives you bring to the tech table.  If you are willing to document your success and some of your failure, miraculously you start attracting more positive opportunities your way.

Attracting Opportunities, Not Just Chasing Them

Building a personal brand is not just about showcasing your skills; it’s about attracting opportunities to you. By establishing yourself as an authority in your chosen niche or showcasing your journey into tech, you become a magnet for the right connections, collaborations, and job opportunities. It’s about becoming a sought-after professional rather than just another candidate.

The Authenticity Advantage

Authenticity is the secret sauce in personal branding. It’s about being genuine and transparent about your journey, including the challenges and triumphs. Women making a career change into tech should embrace their unique narrative, turning their experiences into powerful stories that resonate with others. Authenticity builds trust, and in the tech world, trust can open doors.

Crafting a Digital Presence

In the digital age, your online presence is your virtual handshake. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, comment on industry trends, and engage with the tech community. A consistent and thoughtful online presence not only amplifies your personal brand but also positions you as a thought leader in your domain.

Building a Supportive Network

Your personal brand extends beyond what you say about yourself; it’s also influenced by what others say about you. Cultivate a supportive network within the tech community. Actively seek out mentors, allies, and collaborators who can amplify your message and provide guidance as you navigate your career change.

At the end of the day, in the journey of making a career change into tech, building a personal brand is not just a recommendation; it’s a strategic move to empower your transition. It’s about embracing visibility, breaking stereotypes, and attracting opportunities that align with your goals. Remember, your unique journey is an asset, and by putting yourself out there, you’re not just navigating change—you’re driving it.  Plus you’ll inspire a few others along the way who may have been sitting in fear to take the first step in making a well needed change to their career.

Are you ready to unleash the power of your personal brand and embark on a transformative journey in tech? If you have a Linkedin profile (similar) that has been gathering dust and looks like it’s been neglected for year, the time is now to show it some love.  Linkedin is a gold mind for opportunities, but people love to be hiding.

If you’ve been lurking in the background year after year and not even introduced yourself and what you do, I challenge you to create a post introducing yourself to the world, what you do now, what you desire to do in the tech world (you don’t even need to know how you will achieve that at this stage), and why it means so much to you to make that dream a reality.

Embrace the challenge, showcase your authenticity, put in the work, and watch as opportunities in the tech world start to come knocking on your digital door.

Hope this encourages even at least one person out there to take action before another year passes by with you telling the same old story about how you hate your job and wanting a change. You don’t have control over a lot of things, but you do have control over how you present yourself to the world. Why not let it be on your terms and let it go some way towards attracting the opportunities you deserve.

More power to you x

You can find out more about The Confidence Coaching Programme here https://dionnecondor-farrell.com/career-coaching-programme-for-women-into-tech/

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The Challenges We Face

1. The Gender Gap:

The tech industry has long been plagued by a gender gap. As a woman, entering a room dominated by male colleagues can be both intimidating and isolating. It’s essential to acknowledge this reality while striving to bridge the divide.

2. Stereotypes and Bias:

Stereotypes persist. The notion that certain roles are more suited for men can cast shadows on our capabilities. Overcoming these biases requires not only personal resilience but a collective effort to challenge and change outdated perceptions.

Embracing Our Unique Strengths

1. Collaboration and Communication:

Women often excel in collaboration and communication, vital skills in tech teams. Embrace these strengths, recognising that diversity in communication styles fosters innovation.

2. Problem-Solving Prowess:

Tech is about problem-solving, and women are excellent problem solvers. Whether it’s debugging code or tackling complex projects, our unique perspectives contribute to creative solutions.

Practical Tips for Success

1. Find Your Tribe:

Seek out communities of women in tech. Whether online or in-person, having a supportive network provides encouragement and valuable insights.

2. Support Matters:

Connect with a coach who has navigated the challenges you face. Their guidance can be instrumental in shaping your journey and providing a roadmap for success.

3. Continuous Learning:

The tech landscape evolves rapidly. Stay ahead by embracing a mindset of continuous learning. Online courses, workshops, and industry events are excellent avenues for growth.

Celebrating Our Wins

1. Acknowledge Your Achievements:

In a demanding field like tech, it’s crucial to pause and acknowledge your achievements.  Celebrate your successes, no matter how small.

2. Be Your Own Advocate:

Don’t shy away from advocating for yourself. If you’ve achieved a milestone, share it. Your accomplishments contribute to the broader narrative of women thriving in tech.

The Future We’re Building

As women in tech, we’re not just navigating the current state of the industry; we’re actively shaping its future. By persistently breaking barriers, celebrating our unique strengths, and fostering a supportive community, we contribute to a tech industry that reflects the diversity and creativity of the world it serves.

Embrace the Journey

Navigating the tech industry as a woman is an ongoing journey—one that requires resilience, courage, and a commitment to authenticity. By supporting each other, advocating for change, and celebrating our victories, we’re not just navigating; we’re steering the course for a more inclusive and innovative future.

So, to all the women navigating the tech seas, keep sailing. Your journey matters, and your presence is transforming the industry for the better.

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I’ve always believed in the transformative power of words. They have the potential to inspire, ignite change, and drive individuals and organisations to new heights. This belief is the driving force behind my passion for public speaking, particularly when it comes to delivering talks for corporate companies and women audiences.
I believe one of the best decisions I made was investing time and some of my salary in developing my public speaking skills.

1. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

As an IT professional, I’ve witnessed the underrepresentation of women in the tech industry.  It’s a challenge that can’t be overlooked. To address this issue, I’ve made it my mission to promote diversity and inclusion in tech. Speaking to corporate audiences provides a platform to discuss the importance of creating workplaces that are open, diverse, and inclusive, not just for the talent they attract, but also for the ones they need to retain.  It’s a chance to shed light on the talents and potential that often go untapped, just because of gender. Through my talks, I aim to inspire organisations to embrace change and create opportunities for all.

2. Fostering Empowerment and Confidence

Empowerment is a word that holds immense significance. For women in tech, confidence is often the key to unlocking their full potential, and the thing that is lacking.  The path to success in the tech industry is not always straightforward, and it’s marked by moments of self-doubt. When I speak to women audiences, I strive to instil confidence and self-belief. I share stories of individuals who have overcome barriers, who have dared to defy norms, and who have emerged as leaders in the tech world. My talks are a source of motivation and encouragement, a reminder that every woman has the capacity to excel in tech, irrespective of the challenges they may face.

3. Sparking Meaningful Conversations

Public speaking is not a one-way street. It’s an opportunity for me to connect, engage, and converse with audiences. When I deliver talks, especially for corporate companies, it’s not just about delivering a monologue; it’s about sparking conversations. I encourage questions, discussions, and the sharing of experiences. These dialogues lead to deeper insights and create an atmosphere of learning and growth.

4. The Ripple Effect

The impact of a single talk can be far-reaching. It’s the ripple effect of empowerment. As individuals leave my talks with newfound inspiration and insights, they take these lessons back to their workplaces and communities. The impact multiplies. In the corporate world, it can lead to more inclusive policies and increased support for women employees. In women’s networks, it can foster mentorship, sponsorship and mutual support. This, to me, is the true essence of my work.

5. Nurturing Leadership

Leadership isn’t defined by gender; it’s defined by the qualities and actions that drive change. When I speak, I aim to nurture hidden leadership qualities in all my listeners, many of which probably don’t realise themselves as a leader.   Whether I’m speaking to a corporate audience or a group of women in tech, I emphasise the significance of leadership. It’s not just about climbing the career ladder; it’s about leading by example, fostering teamwork, and inspiring others to be leaders in their own right.

My passion for delivering talks to corporate companies and women audiences is rooted in a deep desire to drive change, foster empowerment, and create opportunities. It’s a way to contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and confident tech industry. Through words and stories, I aspire to create a future where every woman has the opportunity to shine in tech, and where every corporate organisation values and harnesses the full potential of its workforce, and through sharing lived experience of the good and bad of the mission to improve diversity and inclusion in tech and highlighting the benefits it has on business, they will have the willingness to adapt their organisational culture to support and nurture more women in the tech space.

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As a tech career coach with 20 years of experience in the tech industry, I’ve seen first-hand how challenging it can be for women to make the transition into a career in tech. But I really believe that with the right mindset and skills, anyone can succeed in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

I have a lot of people reaching out to me from non-technical backgrounds who are interested in tech career, but feel like they lack the necessary skills and knowledge to break into tech. But you shouldn’t let that hold you back!

Here are some of the top skills that I believe women need to succeed in a career in tech no matter what tech related role you plan to pursue:

Problem-solving: 

Tech is all about solving complex problems and finding creative solutions. As a woman in tech, you’ll need to be able to think critically and analytically, and to approach challenges with a clear and focused mind.

Adaptability: 

The tech industry is constantly changing, and you’ll need to be able to adapt to new technologies, processes, and ways of working. This means being open-minded and flexible, and willing to learn and grow as the industry evolves.

Communication: 

As a woman in tech, you’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people, from stakeholders, technical teams to non-technical colleagues and clients. This means being able to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise way, and to listen actively and empathetically to others’ perspectives.

Creativity: 

The best tech solutions often come from thinking outside the box and approaching problems in new and innovative ways. As a woman in tech, you’ll need to be able to tap into your creative side and bring fresh ideas to the table.

Resilience: 

The tech industry can be demanding and fast-paced, and you’ll need to be able to handle the pressure, keep your cool and stay focused on your goals. This means being resilient and persistent, and learning how to bounce back from setbacks and failures.

Collaboration: 

Collaboration is an essential skill in any industry, but it’s particularly crucial in tech. Women tend to excel at collaboration because they tend to be more relationship-oriented and empathetic. They have a natural ability to build trust and create a supportive environment, which leads to more productive teams and better outcomes.

Leadership: 

Leadership is essential for success in any industry, and it’s particularly critical in tech. Women tend to excel at leadership because they are more likely to be collaborative, empathetic, and relationship-oriented. They also tend to be more inclusive and able to build diverse and productive teams.

Continuous Learning: 

The tech industry is constantly evolving, and women need to be committed to continuous learning to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends. Women tend to excel at continuous learning because they are more likely to be curious and eager to learn. They also tend to be more comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, which is essential when learning new skills and technologies.

If you’re feeling frustrated and lacking in confidence in your non-technical career, remember that these skills are all things that you can develop and strengthen over time. With the right support and guidance, you can make a successful transition into a tech related role and build a fulfilling and rewarding career in this exciting field.

Happy to have a chat if you’re trying to work out the best way to achieve your tech career goals.

If you’re a woman (or you know of one) who feels frustrated in your current job, and need support to build inner confidence to make a career change into tech, book a complimentary discovery call here to find out how I can help you on your journey to a fulfilling career in tech.

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I’ve just learned this week that April is Stress Awareness Month. I’m looking at this from a women in tech angle, considering I’m all for encouraging more women to consider a career in tech and to take action on progressing their tech careers, I felt it was an important one to highlight.

Stress Awareness Month provides an opportunity for individuals and organisations to raise awareness about the impact of stress on our daily lives.  As a woman in the tech industry,  you’re no stranger to stress. With deadlines looming and projects piling up, it can be easy to forget about taking care of yourself, but it’s important to remember that your health and wellbeing are just as important as your career success.  You may face unique stressors that can affect your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Tech careers often require long hours, tight deadlines, and high-pressure environments that can lead to burnout and other health problems if not handled properly right from the start.

The Impact of Stress on Women in Tech

Studies have shown that women in tech are more likely to experience burnout than men. This is due to a number of factors, including workplace discrimination and the pressure to prove oneself in a male-dominated industry. Additionally, the nature of tech work can be inherently stressful, with long hours and high-stakes projects.

It’s important to recognise the signs of stress and take steps to manage it before it becomes overwhelming.  There are various signs of stress that women in tech may experience, including:

Physical Stress Symptoms of Stress: 

Headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, and stomach problems are common physical symptoms of stress. Women in tech may experience these symptoms due to long hours of sitting in front of a computer, tight deadlines, or a demanding workload. It can also mess with your cycle too if left unmanaged for too long.

Emotional Symptoms of Stress: 

Stress can also manifest itself emotionally, causing irritability, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm. Women in tech may feel stressed due to the pressure to perform well in a male-dominated industry, juggle multiple responsibilities, or meet high expectations.

Women in Tech & Burnout: 

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Women in tech may be more susceptible to burnout due to the high-pressure environment and long hours often associated with the industry.  I’ve certainly experienced burnout at least 3 times in the past during my career, and it wasn’t a pretty sight. When I noticed some of my hair starting to fall out I realised something had to change.

Women in Tech & Sleep Issues: 

Stress can cause sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Women in tech may experience sleep issues due to work-related stress or anxiety.

Women in Tech & Social Withdrawal: 

Women in tech may withdraw from social activities or relationships due to stress, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Women in Tech & Loss of Motivation: 

Stress can lead to a loss of motivation, making it difficult for women in tech to stay focused and productive.

One of the first steps to managing stress is to identify the causes.  

Are you dealing with a heavy workload? 

Ridiculously tight project deadlines?  

A demanding boss? 

A difficult team member?  

 The good news is that there are steps you can take to manage your stress and protect your health, and once you know the source of your stress, you can develop coping strategies that are tailored to your situation. 

Here’s 5 tips to help you manage stress as a woman in tech:

Take breaks: 

It may seem counterintuitive, but taking short breaks throughout the day can actually improve your productivity and help you manage stress. Take a few minutes to stretch, walk around, or simply close your eyes and breathe deeply.

Practice mindfulness: 

Mindfulness is a practice that involves being present in the moment and focusing your attention on the present. I work towards this by using guided meditation. This can help you reduce stress and anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

Build a support network: 

It’s important to have a support system of friends, family, and colleagues who can offer emotional support when you need it. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help or advice when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Set boundaries: 

It’s easy to get caught up in work and forget to take care of yourself.  Lord knows that’s used to be a regular habit of mine and I felt the consequences.  Set boundaries around your work hours and make time for hobbies, exercise, and other activities that bring you joy.

Seek professional help: 

If you’re experiencing chronic stress or anxiety, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or other mental health professional. There is no shame in talking to a therapist.  They can help you develop strategies to manage your stress and improve your overall well-being.  I personally believe getting time with a therapist is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.  

Remember, stress is a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you.  By taking steps to manage your stress, you can improve your overall health and well-being and thrive in your tech career. Your success in your career is dependent on your ability to take care of yourself. So, take the time to prioritise your own needs and you’ll be able to tackle the challenges of the tech industry.

Have you experienced stress during your tech career? What techniques for managing stress have worked for you? Let me know in the comments below.

If you’re a woman (or you know of one) who feels frustrated in your current job, and need support to build inner confidence to make a career change into tech, book a complimentary discovery call here to find out how I can help you on your journey to a fulfilling career in tech.

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Yesterday I posted about the fear of failure as a barrier that women experience when wanting a career in tech, and included some strategies on how to overcome it.  However, I realised I provided solutions to overcome it without fully addressing the common reasons women may be afraid of failing in their new tech career.

Are you a woman who’s been dreaming of making a career change into tech but find yourself stuck in fear of failure?  You’re not alone. Many women who want to transition into tech careers may feel overwhelmed by a few different things that lead to paralysis of taking action.

We’ll explore some of the common reasons why women suffer from fear of failure:

The Pressure to Succeed

As women, we often put a lot of pressure on ourselves to succeed, which can lead to fear of failure.  When it comes to transitioning into tech careers, this pressure can be amplified. Many women may feel like they have to prove themselves in a male-dominated industry, which can add an extra layer of stress and anxiety.

To overcome this fear, it’s important to remember that everyone experiences failure at some point in their career. Failure is not the end of the road but an opportunity to learn and grow. Focus on your strengths and what you can bring to the table. Be confident in yourself and your abilities.

The Unknown

Transitioning into a new career can be daunting, especially if it’s in an unfamiliar field.  The fear of the unknown can hold you back from taking risks and pursuing new opportunities.  Lord knows, the amount of opportunities I have lost in the past due to the fear of the unknown, deciding it was best to stick to the status quo, that comfort zone. Ever heard the quote: “Comfort zones are where dreams go to die”?  That certainly rings true to me.

To overcome this fear, it’s important to do your research.  Learn as much as you can about the tech industry and the roles you’re interested in.  Attend events, network with professionals in the field, and take courses to gain new skills and knowledge. By gaining a better understanding of the industry, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to make the transition.

Self-Doubt

Self-doubt can be a major obstacle for women who want to transition into tech careers. You may feel like you don’t have the right skills or experience to succeed in the field.  Sometimes you wind yourself up so much about it that self sabotage creeps in and halts what little progress you were able to make towards the career change.  However, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be an expert to start. Everyone has to start somewhere.

To overcome self-doubt, focus on your strengths and the skills you already have that can transfer to the tech industry. Take courses, attend workshops, and gain hands-on experience to build your skills and confidence.  Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you and your potential.

Negativity from the Naysayers

When women express an interest in pursuing a career in tech, they may encounter negative reactions from people around them, such as friends or coworkers, and family members (also known as the naysayers).   Family members can actually be the worst for this one, and usually has the most impact if you let it set in.  Naysayers are individuals who express doubt, scepticism, or negativity towards someone’s career goals, and they can have a detrimental effect on a person’s self-confidence and motivation.  These naysayers may try to discourage them from pursuing their goals, citing reasons such as lack of experience, the competitive job market, or even their gender.

This negativity can make women doubt their abilities and question whether they are truly capable of succeeding in the tech industry.  It can also create feelings of isolation and loneliness, as they may feel like they don’t have the support they need to pursue their goals.  However, it’s important for women to remember that the opinions of naysayers don’t define their worth or potential.  To overcome this, they should focus on surrounding themselves with positive and supportive people, seeking out mentors, coaches and role models in the industry, and focusing on their strengths and passions, women can overcome the negativity and pursue a successful career in tech.

What reasons have you experienced that have caused your fear of failure when it comes to making a change to your dream career in tech? Let me know in the comments below.

If you’re a woman (or you know of one) who feels frustrated in your current job, and need support to build inner confidence to make a career change into tech, book a complimentary discovery call here to find out how I can help you on your journey to a fulfilling career in tech.

The post Fear of Failure: A Barrier To Women Pursuing A Career in Tech… Here’s What it Looks Like first appeared on .

For many women, the prospect of transitioning into a career in tech can be both exciting and daunting.  The tech industry is rapidly growing and has a high demand for skilled professionals. However, making the transition can be challenging, and one of the most significant barriers is the fear of failure.

Fear of failure is a common experience, but it can be especially pronounced for women who are leaving a stable job or have limited experience in the tech industry. It can hold them back from taking risks and pursuing new opportunities, preventing them from realising their full potential.

The truth is that failure is a natural part of the learning process, and it is often through failure that you grow and learn the most. However, the fear of failure can make it difficult for women to take the risks necessary to succeed in a new career.

Here are 5 strategies to help overcome fear of failure for success in a career in tech:

Reframe Your Thinking:

Instead of seeing failure as a negative experience, try to reframe it as a learning opportunity. Every time you fail, you gain valuable experience and knowledge that can help you succeed in the future.

Set Realistic Goals:

Setting realistic goals can help you manage your expectations and reduce the fear of failure. Start with small, achievable goals and build up from there.

Seek Support:

Building a support system of mentors, coaches, and peers can help you navigate the challenges of a career change and provide you with the encouragement and guidance you need to overcome your fears.

Embrace a Growth Mindset:

Adopting a growth mindset means recognising that your abilities and skills can be developed over time with effort and practice. This mindset can help you see failure as an opportunity for growth and learning.

Take Action:

Finally, the best way to overcome the fear of failure is to take action. Break down your career transition into small, manageable steps, and take consistent action towards your goals.  Reminding myself of the well known quote by Susan Jeffers “Feel the fear and do it anyway” has really helped to spur me on when fear shows its ugly head around something new I want to do or achieve.  We have to get out of our own way.

Remember, the fear of failure is normal, but it doesn’t have to hold you back from pursuing a career in tech. By adopting a growth mindset, setting realistic goals, seeking support, and taking action and doing this consistently, you can overcome this barrier and achieve success in your new career.  Don’t let fear stand in the way of your dreams.

If you’re a woman (or you know of one) who feels frustrated in your current job, and need support to build inner confidence to make a career change into tech, book a complimentary discovery call here to find out how I can help you on your journey to a fulfilling career in tech.

Photo Credit: Magnet[dot]me on Unsplash

The post Fear of Failure: Overcoming The Barrier To A Career in Tech first appeared on .