Advancing More Inclusive Tech Careers: How People Develop Their Potential and Thrive

Underrepresentation is widespread in the software industry, resulting in problems for society, companies, and individuals. People in the technology industry who belong to underrepresented groups are using six capabilities to develop and harness their potential: perseverance, learning, work experience, communication, curiosity, and empathy. However, individual effort cannot be expected to compensate for systemic barriers, and organizations need to improve efforts to create environments where people of various backgrounds can thrive. Three ways in which organizations and individuals interested in improving representation can act are by supporting networking, cultivating inclusive leadership, and promoting the development of self-efficacy.