How to overcome challenges for women in tech: An interview with Baiba Grugule

The tech industry has become a powerful catalyst for change, revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact. However, it’s no secret that women in tech face numerous challenges on their journey to success. In an interview with the Marketing Director at Infogram and Prezi, Baiba Grugule sheds light on the women in tech challenges. Also, she provides valuable insights into overcoming these obstacles. From unconscious bias to a lack of representation, explore the challenges faced by women in tech and uncover strategies to empower and support women in their careers.

Journey to tech and empowerment

“My journey to the role I have now in a tech company was more than just a career decision. It was a conscious choice to be part of an industry that’s at the forefront of shaping our future. Technology has transformed the way we communicate, learn, work, and entertain. It’s an ever-evolving field full of challenges and opportunities, and the thrill of being part of this change was irresistible,” Baiba explains. Furthermore, Baiba saw an opportunity to utilize her marketing skills to bridge the gap between tech concepts and the people who use tech products.

In addition to her role at Infogram and Prezi, Baiba actively participates in the Riga TechGirls TechMentor program. She shares, “Joining the Riga TechGirls TechMentor program was a natural progression of my personal and professional commitment to promote diversity in the tech sector. I strongly believe that everyone, regardless of their gender, should have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the technological advancements we are making.”

The TechMentor program serves as a platform to encourage women to step into tech roles, inspire them through successful stories, and provide them with the necessary skills and confidence. By advocating for diversity and inclusivity, Riga TechGirls create an environment that fosters innovation. Furthermore, the organization addresses the needs of a diverse user base.

Primary challenges for women in tech

Reflecting on the challenges women face in the tech industry, Baiba highlights, “Unconscious bias, stereotypes that question a woman’s technical ability, the lack of female representation and mentors, balancing demanding tech roles with personal responsibilities – all of these obstacles create a difficult and sometimes unwelcoming environment for women.”

• Unconscious bias: Biases can lead to unfair judgments and hinder opportunities for women in tech. These biases may manifest in the form of doubting a woman’s technical skills or assuming that certain roles are better suited for men. As a result, women may face additional scrutiny, skepticism, or even disbelief in their abilities, undermining their confidence and hindering their professional growth.

• Stereotypes surrounding women’s technical ability: These stereotypes perpetuate the notion that women are not as skilled or competent in technical fields, reinforcing biased assumptions and limiting opportunities for women to showcase their talents and contribute fully to the industry. 

• The lack of female representation and mentors: When women don’t see others like themselves in influential positions, it can be difficult to envision a career path and feel a sense of belonging. The absence of role models and mentors who have navigated similar challenges can limit the guidance, support, and professional development opportunities available to women.

• Balancing demanding tech roles with personal responsibilities: The fast-paced and often demanding nature of tech careers can make it challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially when societal expectations and caregiving responsibilities disproportionately affect women. The need for flexible work arrangements, supportive policies, and inclusive company cultures that recognize and accommodate personal responsibilities are vital in ensuring that women can fully engage and succeed in their tech careers while maintaining a healthy work-life integration.

“These challenges have far-reaching implications for the industry,” Baiba explains, “They limit diversity and inclusion, which are critical for fostering innovation, enhancing problem-solving, and ensuring products and services cater to a diverse user base.”

Overcoming obstacles

Drawing from her professional experience, Baiba shares advice for women in tech: “Throughout my career, I’ve had my fair share of hurdles. Instances of unconscious bias and occasional doubts about my technical competence were some of the roadblocks. What helped me overcome these challenges was a strong belief in my abilities and the value I bring to the table. I sought out mentors who provided guidance and support, built a network with other women in tech which provided a sense of community and shared experiences, and made a commitment to lifelong learning and skill development to stay relevant in the fast-paced tech world.” 

Seeking out mentors, building a network with other women, and committing to lifelong learning are key factors that can empower any woman’s career in tech.

Strategies for success

To succeed in the tech industry, Baiba shares six crucial strategies that can help women overcome key challenges in the tech industry.

Confidence and self-advocacy

Women should confidently articulate their ideas, showcase their accomplishments, and speak up for themselves in professional settings. Believing in their abilities and expressing their worth can help overcome biases and stereotypes.

Building a support network

Seeking mentors and creating a robust professional network is essential. Connecting with individuals who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities can help women navigate challenges and open doors to new possibilities.

Developing a diverse skill set

While technical skills are important, developing soft skills such as communication, leadership, and negotiation can set women apart. Strong communication abilities can help overcome barriers and assert their ideas effectively, while leadership skills can position them for growth and advancement.

Continuous learning and growth

Embracing a growth mindset and continuously updating skills and knowledge are crucial. Staying up-to-date with industry trends, pursuing relevant certifications, and seeking out learning opportunities can help women remain competitive in their careers.

Advocacy and community involvement

Women should actively participate in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in their field. By advocating for themselves and others, they can contribute to creating a more equitable and supportive work environment.

Persistence and resilience

Career success often requires perseverance in the face of obstacles. Women should never give up on their dreams and goals. By staying focused, adaptable, and resilient, they can navigate setbacks and continue to make progress.

The future of women in tech

Looking ahead, Baiba envisions a changing narrative for women in tech. “While the current conversation focuses on improving female representation, I foresee a future where the conversation will revolve around how women are leading tech innovations, closing the gender pay gap, and breaking the glass ceiling,” Baiba states. She acknowledges that new challenges may arise with evolving tech landscapes but believes that the resilience and creativity women bring to the table will equip them to navigate these hurdles successfully. “We are heading towards a future where ‘women in tech’ won’t be a special category, but an integral part of the industry,” Baiba predicts.

Ultimately, with continued determination and collective efforts, women in tech are poised to make significant strides. They are transforming the industry and creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

For a more in-depth exploration of the workshops, meetups, and other events arranged by Riga TechGirls, you can visit their website or track their activities on various social media platforms. If you’re interested in hearing about the firsthand experiences of our team members who served as mentors in the TechMentor program last year, you can watch this informative video: