Career Change
Isil Arican
Entering to HIT world

gender bias

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Advancing to a leadership position

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QUESTION:

Dear Whitty Women,

I've been working in the healthcare IT field for several years now, and I feel like I've hit a roadblock in my career. I want to advance to a leadership position, but I'm not sure how to make that happen. What steps can I take to position myself for a promotion and show my potential as a leader in the field?

ANSWER:

Dear Reader,

You are not alone! 

Many women working in the healthcare IT field finds themselves at a crossroads in their careers, aspiring to assume leadership positions but uncertain about the steps necessary to achieve this goal. Advancing to a leadership role in healthcare IT is a challenging yet highly rewarding endeavor and there are various strategies to help you in positioning yourself for a promotion and proving your potential as a leader in the field. 

  • Self-Assessment and Goal Setting: Before embarking on your leadership journey, it is helpful to conduct a thorough self-assessment. Reflect on your skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. Establish clear and achievable career goals that align with your aspirations and define the leadership role you are targeting and the associated responsibilities. 

  • Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest developments in healthcare IT is important. Consider pursuing relevant certifications or advanced degrees, and actively engage in workshops, conferences, and online courses to enhance your knowledge and skills. 

  • Build a Strong Network: Effective networking can lead to valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities. Do not hesitate to seek mentors experienced in leadership roles willing to guide you. Attending industry conferences, becoming a member of professional organizations, and connecting with colleagues and mentors can help you build a strong professional network. 

  • Showcase Leadership Qualities: To prove your potential as a leader, begin by exemplifying leadership qualities in your current role. Be proactive, take on additional responsibilities, and lead by example. Show initiative, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Display a positive attitude and inspire your colleagues. 

  • Develop Soft Skills: In leadership positions, soft skills are often as important as technical skills. Hone your communication, interpersonal, and emotional intelligence skills. Effective communication, teamwork, and empathy are vital for building strong working relationships. 

  • Take on Challenging Projects: Volunteer for high-impact, cross-functional projects that allow you to showcase your leadership potential. Successfully managing complex projects will prove your ability to handle the responsibilities of a leadership role. 

  • Seek Feedback: Regularly request feedback from peers, supervisors, and mentors. Constructive feedback will help you identify areas for improvement and enable you to track your progress toward your leadership goals. 

  • Advocate for Yourself: Do not be afraid to speak up and express your interest in leadership roles. When opportunities arise, actively pursue them. Articulate your vision and the value you bring to decision-makers within your organization. 

We wish you the best of luck in your journey towards career advancement! 

 

Combatting impostor syndrome

QUESTION:

Dear Whitty Women,

What are some tips for combatting imposter syndrome in the workplace? 

ANSWER:

Dear Reader,

Impostor syndrome is common among successful women, especially in male-dominated fields or leadership roles. According to a survey, half of executive women experience self-doubt because they never expected to achieve their level of success. To combat impostor syndrome, here are some tips: 

  • Acknowledge your feelings and know that you're not alone. Imposter syndrome affects many high achievers, and it doesn't define your abilities. 

  • Challenge negative thoughts by seeking evidence and reminding yourself of past successes. 

  • Focus on your accomplishments, big and small, to boost your belief in your abilities. 

  • Set realistic goals that are achievable and avoid setting yourself up for failure. 

  • Seek feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends to gain valuable perspectives and validation. 

  • Practice self-compassion and forgive yourself for mistakes. Treat yourself kindly as you grow. 

  • Talk to someone you trust, like a coach, or a friend, to share your feelings and develop coping strategies. 

  • Embrace the learning process and prioritize personal growth over perfectionism. 

  • Celebrate small victories to build confidence and motivation. 

  • Surround yourself with supportive individuals who believe in your abilities. 

  • Emphasize the effort and dedication you've put into your accomplishments. 

  • Keep a record of positive feedback and compliments to remind yourself of your impact. 

  • Step out of your comfort zone, take risks, and embrace opportunities for growth. 

Here are some additional articles that provide further insights and advice on how to combat impostor syndrome: 

  1. “Why imposter syndrome hits women and women of color harder?” by BBC Equality Matters 

  2. “Why do women in tech feel like they’re faking it?” by Women Tech Network 

 

Entering a male dominated field

QUESTION:

Dear Whitty Women,

What advice do you have for young women as new professionals in a primarily male-dominated field such as IT?

ANSWER:

Dear Reader,

Embarking on a new career in a field that has historically been male-dominated can be challenging and intimidating. Here are some suggestions for individuals, including young women and non-binary professionals, as they enter such an industry:

  • Be confident in your abilities: Believe in yourself and your skills. Do not allow self-doubt to undermine your confidence. Remember that your gender does not define your competence or potential. Embrace your unique perspective and contributions to the field.

  • Seek out mentorship and networking opportunities: Connect with other women professionals in IT who have paved the way before you. They can provide guidance, support, and insights into navigating a male-dominated industry.

  • Continuous learning: IT is a rapidly evolving field, so staying updated with the latest trends, technologies, and skills is crucial. Invest in your professional development by taking courses, attending workshops, and pursuing certifications. This will help you remain competitive and enhance your expertise.

  • Find allies: Build relationships with both male and female colleagues who can become your allies. They can support you in overcoming challenges, provide mentorship, advocate for your accomplishments and can speak up when they see gender bias.

  • Advocate for yourself: Don't hesitate to promote your own achievements and skills. Your accomplishments deserve recognition.

  • Overcome imposter syndrome: It is common to feel like you do not belong or doubt your abilities in a male-dominated environment. Recognize that these feelings are not unique to you and many professionals experience them. Stay focused, seek feedback, and remind yourself of your worth. Do not hesitate to promote your own achievements and skills.

  • Embrace diversity and inclusion: IT benefits from diverse perspectives and experiences. Advocate for an inclusive work environment where everyone's ideas are valued and respected. Encourage diversity initiatives and participate in activities that promote equality in the industry.

  • Support other women: One of the best ways to succeed in a male dominated industry is to support other women. We can succeed by working together.

Here are some additional articles that provide further insights and advice for women in male-dominated fields: