Elbows out! Shaping the future requires full participation

By Neeta Shenoy, Vice President, Corporate Marketing, Synaptics

There is a historical reason for this, of course. It used to be that young women were discouraged from pursuing careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). That has changed dramatically in the past few decades, and women occupy leadership positions across the industry. However, as technology becomes pervasive and intricately woven into the fabric of our existence, it is essential to double down on the efforts to encourage more women to pursue STEM-based careers.

This will ensure we have a deep talent pool and a broad perspective to accelerate and shape the next stage of an industry that is shedding stereotypes, forcing us to examine the very meaning of what it is to be human, and demanding the full participation of all to ensure the brightest possible future.

Take a chance on new talent

Naturally, a deep talent pool is critical. Companies should want to take advantage of all available talent and be purposeful about doing so. That includes being mindful when hiring for specific positions as they open, of course, but there are other ways to make room for bright young minds with fresh perspectives.

For example, at Synaptics, we regularly hire promising young talent into starter roles to help them get their ‘foot in the door.’ In these positions, they gain valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn more about the company, the industry, and what working in a professional environment entails. With guidance and hands-on coaching, many have been promoted and continue to play an essential role at Synaptics. Fortunately, we're not the only ones who do this, though more companies could emulate the practice. It's hard to argue with win-wins.

Encouraging young people with the aptitude for STEM clearly works in schools. Sometimes, we must remind ourselves that this must continue in the workplace.

The importance of mentorship

Mentoring is a particularly effective form of encouragement. If you assume the role of a mentor, you contribute to your organisation's success by helping your colleagues be more successful. You also contribute to your own success given the many benefits mentorship brings with it.

If I were to share a top tip, I would say that wherever you are in your career, seek out a mentor. We all have areas of improvement and growth. Be willing to take constructive feedback. Build on your advantages and learn how to turn areas ripe for improvement into strengths.

Encouragement doesn't have to be delivered through a formal programme or business relationship. Allyship is essential. A word or gesture of support is always meaningful.

Own your place at the table

I have worked in this industry for more than 15 years. When I started, I was among the few – if any – women in any meeting. The other women and I would sit in chairs on the periphery of the meeting room, leaving chairs at the table for the men. But it finally occurred to me that I was hired for my expertise and had valuable contributions to make, and to make them, I needed a seat at the table – literally and figuratively – so that's where I sat. I want women early in their careers to understand this: having been hired is your right to be there. You have been hired to contribute, so do it. Sit at the table. Do not be a wallflower – elbows out!

Working for a company should not be approached as a zero-sum project. You are not competing to be one of the few women. You are not competing with the men. You are competing to contribute.

Take control of the narrative

The language used to describe men and women is a common theme when discussing the challenges women face in any industry - men are assertive, but assertive women are labelled pushy. The language is changing but hasn't changed as much as it needs to. Redefining the vocabulary used and taking ownership of it is vital as a woman, so if being elbows out means being pushy, own it.

Utilise your strengths. So, if you are seen as nurturing because of your gender, use this to listen and evaluate, to add weight to what you say, and to bring a different perspective. Leaning into and embracing our differences makes us stronger as a team. This is not about men versus women but about creating an environment where everyone’s voice can be heard and has equal weight.

Finally, always articulate why you are ready for a position, not from a standpoint of entitlement, but rooted in your accomplishments and potential. Don’t be afraid to be your own champion – elbows out: the future depends upon it.