The 8th of March is International Women’s Day! It is an opportunity to report about the situation of women in the world, reflect on the progress made, highlight the gender inequalities, injustices, and also celebrate the courageous actions that have been taken to defend women’s rights.
Today, many topics on the rights of women at work, as well as gender diversity in business, are emerging. We asked women in our workplace, what they think about the diversity of genders in the workplace.
Geeta Madan works in the Business Analysis department. She is the Head of Business Analysis at q-leap since 2016.
Why gender diversity of profiles is important for an IT company?
“Gender diversity is important for a work culture in organizations. Diversification in my department in Business Analysis; having diverse teams encourages a more co-operative environment which leads to more productivity, giving your business a competitive edge. Having both genders gives different perspectives to look at problems and ultimately helps in benefiting from different viewpoints. As a last thought, having gender diversity generates empathy among people which is a very important skill a BA must possess.”
Can you give some tips to share with women for their career?
“The tips I would like to give women are to stay curious and ask questions. Speak up. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind. Be open to criticism, you will stay grounded and learn more. No task is too small to do, gain experience and learn as much as you can. Be your authentic self. Refuse to feel guilty. Finally, when you are on top of the ladder, lead with your heart, not your fears.”
Grâce Kongo works in the Testing department. Arrived at q-leap in 2014, she works as Senior Test Analyst at q-leap.
Why gender diversity of profiles is important for an IT company?
“Different functions are involved in the development of a software-related project, so there is a diversity of views and ways of working. For the development of mobile or web application, women and men are led to use it and this makes it possible to propose products adapted to the types of profiles/genders whatever the ages and the generations. Mixed gender in IT creates harmony in teams and boosts team performance.”
Can you give some tips to share with women for their career?
“I advise young women not to be afraid to take the path of IT and not to give in to the stereotypes that say IT is more reserved for men where in today’s world, women are able to work in the same areas as men. I advise young students not to limit their horizons, considering the positions are not dedicated to a single gender. The most important thing is to communicate while at work, whatever the context, regardless of the obstacles.”
Isabelle From works in the Sales & Training department. She is Training Services Manager at q-leap since 2018.
Why gender diversity of profiles is important for an IT company?
“The diversity of genders is important for the status of women. In general, the IT industry is composed of male profiles and therefore the fact that q-leap engages women in IT and Corporate positions proves that women have their place in the IT industry. It also shows the open-mindedness of q-leap about this topic.”
Can you give some tips to share with women for their career?
“First, we need to be aware that we are not inferior to men concerning our abilities. Moreover, it is not always easy for men to accept being led by women. Before progressing in society, we must probably prove more than a man, our abilities and our skills.”
Margaux Geliot works in the Marketing & Communication department. New joiner, she is Marketing & Communication Assistant at q-leap since 2018.
Why gender diversity of profiles is important for an IT company?
“Gender diversity is important in a company and especially in the field of marketing and communication because it helps create harmony within the organization. Products, creations, events etc. need to have both, a feminine and masculine viewpoint for the generation of ideas, because we have different ideas, visions, and approaches. In addition, the diversity of genders brings about a better atmosphere within teams.”
Can you give some tips to share with women for their career?
“I think that my advice is to always keep up the team spirit in order to share and represent the values of the company. Above all, one should listen to their co-workers, in order to keep a good working environment. A second tip is to always do the job you want, do not think that a job is not suited for women. If you give it your best, it is always possible to succeed in the field you want. Never hesitate to defend the rights of women. Go for it! Finally, be ambitious, set professional goals for yourself and do everything in your power to achieve them. You will be proud of yourself!”