Women Claiming Their Space in Tech

Ready for a Change? Tech Could Be Your Next Career Adventure

Welcome to another thrilling episode of the Jobs for Women podcast with your host, Zoe Haydn Jones. Our special guest this time is Em Ledger, a Senior Product Manager at the BBC, who shares her remarkable journey into the world of technology.

Em’s unique path began with a Film and Media Production degree, which introduced her to technical aspects such as editing, lighting, and cinematography. An unexpected encounter with the tech world happened during her time in retail when Em discovered her knack for cataloging and process management as e-commerce began to bloom.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Em’s passion for technology and entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a business in Women’s Street and SKATEWEAR. During this three-year experience, Em delved deep into the world of digital marketing, website development, and e-commerce. Despite the challenges of running a small business, especially in 2010-2011, this period helped Em recognize her affinity towards the technical elements of her work.

Em bravely decided to close her business, and made a pivotal career switch. It was a turning point when she embraced her passion for tech and pursued her first job in the industry. Em discusses the lack of understanding about tech careers and her mission to demystify the tech world, which can often seem intimidating and inaccessible to outsiders.

Despite her hurdles, including dyscalculia and ADHD, Em believes anyone can find their place in the tech industry. She emphasizes that tech is ever-evolving, with new roles emerging regularly. This dynamic nature of tech opens doors for people of various skill sets, and recruiters often value personality type and potential over rigid prerequisites.

Job Descriptions

Em shares her thoughts on the often-daunting job descriptions set by some companies. The panel discussion serves as a call to action for companies to focus less on strict criteria and more on fostering diversity, equality, and inclusion.

This inspiring episode is a testament to Em’s resilience and dedication. Her journey from film production to e-commerce, entrepreneurship, and, finally, to a senior tech role, serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone considering a tech career. Tune in to hear Em’s empowering story and insights into finding your unique path in the tech industry.

Ready for a Change? Tech Could Be Your Next Career Adventure!

Em Ledger and Zoe Haydn Jones discuss the evolution of career pathways and job requirements in the tech industry. Em emphasises that tech is a constantly evolving field that often looks for a personality type rather than specific qualifications. She argues against the notion that entry to the tech industry requires a certain degree or social connections and asserts that there are roles within tech for everyone, including those from non-traditional backgrounds.

Zoe mentions the strict criteria and job descriptions that deter many applicants, particularly women, who tend to apply only when they meet 90-100% of the job requirements, while men are more likely to apply if they meet 60% of the criteria. They both agree that companies need to reconsider their job requirements to attract a wider pool of talent, highlighting how some companies, like Kellogg’s, have started to eliminate degree requirements for many roles.

Em also discusses the shift in power dynamics in the job market. Modern applicants are more assertive, questioning whether a company’s culture fits their needs and values. She suggests that companies should be open to two-way conversations with candidates and focus on creating an environment that gives employees a sense of purpose and belonging.

Zoe and Em discuss career transitions, particularly into the tech industry. Em shares that online courses can be a good starting point for anyone interested in product management, even for those without formal technology training. She encourages joining relevant communities, and attending free events, talks, and local meetups. The speakers highlight the value of continuous learning, networking, and understanding the strategic aspects of technology, rather than just coding.

They address the importance of mentorship, as well as the vast opportunities that exist in tech. They also lament the limited visibility of these opportunities, particularly for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, and emphasize the importance of outreach to bridge this gap. Em encourages immersing oneself in the community, participating in speaking opportunities, and engaging with recruiters.

Zoe and Em also touch on the topic of job interviews, criticizing practices that put candidates under unnecessary stress, such as impromptu math challenges. They highlight the need for understanding and accommodations for neurodiverse individuals and advocate for openness about one’s needs during recruitment. They argue that a more comfortable interview process would enable candidates to present their best selves.

Here are some top tips on moving into tech

Consider Personality and Potential Over Specific Qualifications: In the tech industry, personality type and potential are often valued over rigid qualifications. Embrace this by showcasing your unique strengths and potential during applications and interviews.
Be Undeterred by Strict Job Descriptions: Don’t let strict job descriptions discourage you. Companies are starting to rethink their criteria to attract a wider talent pool. Apply even if you don’t meet all the requirements – your unique skills and perspective might be just what they’re looking for.
Take Advantage of Online Learning: If you’re interested in product management or any other tech field, start with online courses. They can provide foundational knowledge and show your commitment to learning and developing in the field.
Join Relevant Tech Communities: Get involved in tech communities, attend free events, talks, and local meetups. These platforms can provide valuable insights into the industry and networking opportunities with potential mentors or employers.
Prioritize Continuous Learning and Networking: Keep learning and expanding your network. Understand the strategic aspects of technology, not just the coding part. Show your curiosity and willingness to learn during job applications and interviews.
Seek Out Opportunities and Make Them Visible: The tech industry has many opportunities, but they can sometimes be hard to find, especially for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. Look out for opportunities and make sure to spread the word within your network.
Invest Time in Mentorship: Find a mentor and learn from their experiences. Participating in speaking opportunities and engaging with recruiters can also provide invaluable learning experiences.
Be Open About Your Needs During Recruitment: If you are a neurodiverse individual or have specific needs, be open about them during recruitment. A more comfortable interview process will enable you to present your best self.
Take Inspiration From Success Stories: Em Ledger, a Senior Product Manager at the BBC, overcame many hurdles including dyscalculia and ADHD, to forge a successful career in tech. Draw inspiration from such stories to see that anyone can find their place in the tech industry.