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What holds women back in most workplaces?
#women-in-stem
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13 answers
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Catherine’s Answer
I think it is us ourselves holding us back in the workplace.
I feel there is a lot of support for women at work. I haven't experienced any direct discrimination against women. Although i'm not where i want to be in my career, i feel a good part of it was determined by me.
I really wanted to have a very successful career when i was in school. I had dreams. But things and priorities change. I moved from China to the U.S. after college. I kind of forgot about my dream. I got married. Got busy with the babies. They are so cute. Although i continued to work, although i didn't spend as much time with my kids as i wanted to, I didn't spend as much effort and focus as needed to grow my career. I was happy with my job and daily life.
I wish i had remembered my career dream earlier and really focused on it.
So i think we can do it if we really want it, focus on it, work it. Look for mentors and sponsors to help you get there. Not just once in a while, but consistent and don't get discouraged.
Some level of sacrifice is needed. it is not enough to be smart. You have to work smart and work hard. Go above and beyond. You have to have a will to achieve it. Balance what you have and what you want in your life.
I feel there is a lot of support for women at work. I haven't experienced any direct discrimination against women. Although i'm not where i want to be in my career, i feel a good part of it was determined by me.
I really wanted to have a very successful career when i was in school. I had dreams. But things and priorities change. I moved from China to the U.S. after college. I kind of forgot about my dream. I got married. Got busy with the babies. They are so cute. Although i continued to work, although i didn't spend as much time with my kids as i wanted to, I didn't spend as much effort and focus as needed to grow my career. I was happy with my job and daily life.
I wish i had remembered my career dream earlier and really focused on it.
So i think we can do it if we really want it, focus on it, work it. Look for mentors and sponsors to help you get there. Not just once in a while, but consistent and don't get discouraged.
Some level of sacrifice is needed. it is not enough to be smart. You have to work smart and work hard. Go above and beyond. You have to have a will to achieve it. Balance what you have and what you want in your life.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Jessica,
Great Question!
I would say there is not one thing that holds us back, it's within ourselves to succeed.
An interesting data point that always resonates with me is that "research shows that in order to apply for a job women feel they need to meet 100% of the criteria while men usually apply after meeting about 60%."
Don't let fear stop you from trying or trying again. I have been turned down for jobs, but I always follow up to ask what I can do differently to be ready for the next opportunity . It's an easy way to get free advice (lol) and you never get what you don't try to achieve!
This is true also with asking questions. I often stop people when they start a question with 'this may be a stupid question.' There are no stupid questions and then I thank them for being the brave one to ask because there may be others that need to see that initiative before they feel comfortable asking questions.
Thanks and best of luck!
Great Question!
I would say there is not one thing that holds us back, it's within ourselves to succeed.
An interesting data point that always resonates with me is that "research shows that in order to apply for a job women feel they need to meet 100% of the criteria while men usually apply after meeting about 60%."
Don't let fear stop you from trying or trying again. I have been turned down for jobs, but I always follow up to ask what I can do differently to be ready for the next opportunity . It's an easy way to get free advice (lol) and you never get what you don't try to achieve!
This is true also with asking questions. I often stop people when they start a question with 'this may be a stupid question.' There are no stupid questions and then I thank them for being the brave one to ask because there may be others that need to see that initiative before they feel comfortable asking questions.
Thanks and best of luck!
Updated
Sindhu’s Answer
Jessica, I'm not sure all of this applies in the clinical career you seek, but this is based on what I've seen/experienced. There are so many articles and books that will give you more comprehensive answers.
I don't think it is holding women back so much as the structures in the workplace are often setup to support men, so you may run into challenges if your natural tendencies don't align with workplace expectations. In my experience, these are the typical challenges I see women struggle with, including myself. That's not to say these cannot be overcome, but being conscious of them helps address them.
1) Collaborative - while being a collaborative team member is seen as a positive in many junior roles, as you get more seasoned in your field, being collaborative and not directly assertive can be seen as not a natural "leader." This limits promotion or stretch opportunities for women. Each of us needs to find our own assertive style to address this. That does not mean mimic men's behavior but find your own way to voice your opinion and be perceived as assertive.
2) Emotional - any emotional reaction to feedback or workplace situations, especially crying and even getting angry, is perceived by others in the workplace as a weakness. If this happens to you once, it takes a while to change your colleague's perception of you as emotional. I personally think it is unfair as men who express their frustrations by getting angry are not perceived as emotional.
3) Networking - myself and many women I've worked with tend to build deep and narrow networks. In many lines of work, having a broad network opens doors to new opportunities and promotions. Building and maintaining a broad network and talking about your achievements to a wider audience (don't be modest if that is your tendency) is a skill that helps with this one.
4) Organization - women in general are seen as good at organizing things so they are asked to organize social hours/events in the workplace. These opportunities are not valued when it comes to your performance discussion. I encourage my managers to spread this responsibility across the team fairly.
I don't think it is holding women back so much as the structures in the workplace are often setup to support men, so you may run into challenges if your natural tendencies don't align with workplace expectations. In my experience, these are the typical challenges I see women struggle with, including myself. That's not to say these cannot be overcome, but being conscious of them helps address them.
1) Collaborative - while being a collaborative team member is seen as a positive in many junior roles, as you get more seasoned in your field, being collaborative and not directly assertive can be seen as not a natural "leader." This limits promotion or stretch opportunities for women. Each of us needs to find our own assertive style to address this. That does not mean mimic men's behavior but find your own way to voice your opinion and be perceived as assertive.
2) Emotional - any emotional reaction to feedback or workplace situations, especially crying and even getting angry, is perceived by others in the workplace as a weakness. If this happens to you once, it takes a while to change your colleague's perception of you as emotional. I personally think it is unfair as men who express their frustrations by getting angry are not perceived as emotional.
3) Networking - myself and many women I've worked with tend to build deep and narrow networks. In many lines of work, having a broad network opens doors to new opportunities and promotions. Building and maintaining a broad network and talking about your achievements to a wider audience (don't be modest if that is your tendency) is a skill that helps with this one.
4) Organization - women in general are seen as good at organizing things so they are asked to organize social hours/events in the workplace. These opportunities are not valued when it comes to your performance discussion. I encourage my managers to spread this responsibility across the team fairly.
Updated
Rowan’s Answer
Nothing will hold you back if you don't let it- and anything will hold you back if you do. Companies/ business environments have come a long way when it comes to women in the workplace. We haven't shattered the glass ceiling but there are noticable cracks all over that puppy. There is still a ways to go but that is going to be the responsibility of our generation to create an inclusive culture. Be the type of co-worker that you would want to work with. What you put out to people is what they will return.
Be strong and know your worth. Be an ally and willing to forgive when people make mistakes. When I started my job I was one of five girls on a 100 person sales floor. It has been my experience that most people are decent and want a positive work environment. Let your actions/skill/results speak for you and you will do just fine.
Be strong and know your worth. Be an ally and willing to forgive when people make mistakes. When I started my job I was one of five girls on a 100 person sales floor. It has been my experience that most people are decent and want a positive work environment. Let your actions/skill/results speak for you and you will do just fine.
Updated
Liana’s Answer
I find that women have the power to set the tone of who they want to be in the workplace. Many women shy away from being their own authentic self in the workplace for fear of being treated differently. Everyone has a voice in the workplace regardless of gender, but it's important that we all find our voice and use it, staying true to our individual values and bringing our self to the workplace each day. Finding a company that embraces this as a part of their corporate values and mission is key.
Updated
Pratiksha’s Answer
Nothing really holds a woman back in today's workplace if you are motivated to achieve your goals. You have to be strong, open to learning new things and work smart!
Updated
Madison’s Answer
Societal norms, sexism whether implicit bias or explicit, financial/pay differences, overall lack of representation, intimidation, lack of mentors. However all of that to say YOU can change these things. Each one of us women who pursues a career in stem is helping pave a path for those who come after us and that’s what matters most! Your small strides are not small they are meaningful and you can be successful!
Updated
Jolyne’s Answer
After a long career in finance managing many women, one of the best pieces of advice I can give women is to build a strong network at your firm and outside of your firm as early as possible in your career. Join networks at work and volunteer and join non-profit boards like your college alumni board if you have the time. The biggest challenge for women is that most put their heads down, work very hard and hope and expect to be promoted and paid well. However, the networking and ability for others to see your skills and talents in a different setting are critical to job advancement and success.
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
In my experience, what has held me back in the past had *nothing* to do with being female. The primary driver of me being successful (or held back) was having the support of my manager (male or female) and having a wide network of support to back you up as well!
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hi Jessica,
There is nothing that holds women back in the workforce unless you let it! It starts with attitude and treating other respectfully, but also knowing this may not be returned to you. It is fostered with understanding of others and their differences and realizing we are all more alike than we are different. It is perfected with trying new things, always working hard and learning from your mistakes. When you have all of these factors in place you are untouchable. You cannot be held back and you are someone highly desirable for a team! Or, you attract clients based on your own merits if you work alone.
So, please do not enter the workforce thinking you are anything but unstoppable! Learn and teach freely. Be fair, open, and honest with yourself and others and you will go places.
There is nothing that holds women back in the workforce unless you let it! It starts with attitude and treating other respectfully, but also knowing this may not be returned to you. It is fostered with understanding of others and their differences and realizing we are all more alike than we are different. It is perfected with trying new things, always working hard and learning from your mistakes. When you have all of these factors in place you are untouchable. You cannot be held back and you are someone highly desirable for a team! Or, you attract clients based on your own merits if you work alone.
So, please do not enter the workforce thinking you are anything but unstoppable! Learn and teach freely. Be fair, open, and honest with yourself and others and you will go places.
Updated
Caryn’s Answer
The only thing that can hold a woman back in the workplace is herself for not dreaming big enough. As corny as it sounds if you make a plan and execute you can do whatever you want to do regardless of your gender. Now that does not mean that you won't have to make decisions that could impact your career along the way. I truly believe if you put the work effort in you will be rewarded. It is also important to surround yourself with a diverse group of women and men that all want to challenge the status quo!
Updated
Bhoopali’s Answer
Hello there!
I wholeheartedly believe we need to progress past the traditional male/female perspective in the workplace, but unfortunately, it's still a reality. From my observations, there are several factors that often hinder women in their professional growth:
1) A lack of self-confidence in their own skills and experiences.
2) The burden of household obligations pulling them away from work.
3) Overthinking about others' opinions of them.
4) Hesitating to seize opportunities due to personal circumstances.
5) The absence of clear career objectives or plans.
6) Experiencing gender bias in the workplace.
Remember, acknowledging these challenges is the first step towards overcoming them!
I wholeheartedly believe we need to progress past the traditional male/female perspective in the workplace, but unfortunately, it's still a reality. From my observations, there are several factors that often hinder women in their professional growth:
1) A lack of self-confidence in their own skills and experiences.
2) The burden of household obligations pulling them away from work.
3) Overthinking about others' opinions of them.
4) Hesitating to seize opportunities due to personal circumstances.
5) The absence of clear career objectives or plans.
6) Experiencing gender bias in the workplace.
Remember, acknowledging these challenges is the first step towards overcoming them!
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
This is a great question and shows that you understand that there is an issue with women, men, and people of all genders being treated fairly. There is a real problem, but it's not just in STEM. It's really a problem everywhere, and when you look at STEM, it's like putting a microscope on our big problems.
There are great research reports on women's experiences in STEM, and sometimes it can feel discouraging because of these problems. For example, NCWIT has great information: https://www.ncwit.org/.
I would say, though, as a woman in STEM, it's important for us to show up and be here because we need a say in the future of our world, just like anyone else! I think I've had a good time because I have found colleagues and mentors who are in my "safety circle". They are like work friends who I can talk with, vent to, and get recommendations from. It's important to not only network, but build a few, important connections, particularly about work. You can do that by simply asking LOTS of questions and advice (like you're doing right now)!
There are also organizations that can help you build these relationships like: ChickTech, Black Girls Code, Girls Who Code, etc.
Find an organization that might help you meet other women who are interested in STEM!
There are great research reports on women's experiences in STEM, and sometimes it can feel discouraging because of these problems. For example, NCWIT has great information: https://www.ncwit.org/.
I would say, though, as a woman in STEM, it's important for us to show up and be here because we need a say in the future of our world, just like anyone else! I think I've had a good time because I have found colleagues and mentors who are in my "safety circle". They are like work friends who I can talk with, vent to, and get recommendations from. It's important to not only network, but build a few, important connections, particularly about work. You can do that by simply asking LOTS of questions and advice (like you're doing right now)!
There are also organizations that can help you build these relationships like: ChickTech, Black Girls Code, Girls Who Code, etc.
Jennifer recommends the following next steps: