I’ve read many articles that observe “the tech industry” being dominated by men.
I’ve seen statistics showing that women may outnumber men in choosing a Graphic Design career.
I sometimes try to draw conclusions from my own experiences in this regard, and although I certainly hope my employers in the past were hiring me based on my demonstrated knowledge and experience, and on my potential to do great work for their company, I’ll never really know.
Once upon a time I was hired to be the Assistant Art Director of a model railroad manufacturing company in Nevada. The Art Director’s nickname for me was “Beautiful” (which I found obnoxious but decided to tolerate). Would he have hired a man with similar qualifications?
Later I worked for a couple, Mary and Sarah, who owned a newspaper. Were they feeling sympathetic towards an ambitious young woman like myself, and consequently willing to give me a chance at running their graphics department, although I had no experience in the journalism industry?
A few years down the road, I was part of the production team for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle enthusiast magazine, building ads and page layouts. The telecommuting owner, the editor, and half of the freelance writers were men. All of production, HR, and IT were women. Was I hired because I’d fit in with those who worked onsite?
Not too long ago I applied for a job with the design team of a well-known tech company in Cupertino. Being notified that they were impressed with my work, I was then granted an in-person interview: with eight men, most of them in their 20s. Did the fact that I’m female, or that I’m older, affect their decision not to hire me?
It’s been suggested that if I went by a gender-neutral nickname such as “Andy”, I might have better luck landing some job interviews. Another person recommended putting my picture on the resume, since potential employers could find my image appealing. But I’ll stick with my standard nomenclature, and save the room on my resume for detailing my skills and experience.
It’s human nature to gravitate towards those we find attractive, or who are similar to ourselves. Realizing this bias when it occurs is an important step towards dealing fairly with all individuals. I think we should attempt to make opportunities available for any who have the skills and potential to achieve, disregarding (often unintentional) personal preferences, or conversely, diversity for its own sake.
I do realize that in 2014, in the United States, I live in a world where opportunity is far more equal than ever before, and the resources to pursue my dreams are readily available. But we’re still working towards a truly even playing field of merit-based opportunity and reward.
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