IWD 2025: Breaking barriers: Advice for women starting their careers in tech

When I first stepped into the world of cybersecurity, I quickly realised I was entering a male-dominated space. Throughout my studies in Germany and Denmark, I was often the only woman in the classroom. Even now, in my role as an SOC Analyst, I still find myself in rooms where I am the only woman at the table. But if there's one thing my journey has taught me, it's that women have unique strengths that make us not just capable, but exceptional in technical fields.

For women starting their careers in technology, here are some key lessons I've learned along the way.

• Embrace your unique perspective

One of the most striking observations I've made in my career is the difference in how men and women approach problem-solving. I first noticed this while programming robots with my ex-husband. We have the same education, yet our logic and approach to solving challenges were completely different.

I see the same contrast in cybersecurity. When faced with a problem, my male colleagues often jump straight into coding. My approach is more structured - I take time to analyse what we need to achieve, understand the available data, and methodically plan my steps before taking action. This systematic approach has been invaluable, especially in forensic analysis, where accuracy and retracing steps are critical.

A former professor of mine once said, "The best forensic analysts are women. It's the combination of mathematical ability and female intuition." That stuck with me because it reinforced what I had experienced firsthand: we don't need to work like men to be successful in tech. Our different ways of thinking bring balance and innovation to teams.

• Imposter syndrome is real - but don't let it hold you back

When I first entered the field, I often felt I had to prove myself in ways my male colleagues didn't. Many of them had been gaming and coding since childhood, while I had to build those skills later. At times, this made me question if I truly belonged. But the reality is, many women experience imposter syndrome - not because we lack ability, but because we've been conditioned to believe we need to meet unrealistic standards before we're "qualified."

The truth is, no one starts out knowing everything. You learn by doing. If you find yourself hesitating to apply for a job, take a promotion, or speak up in a meeting, ask yourself: Would a man in my position doubt himself the same way? The answer is often no. Push past that self-doubt and take up space.

• Find allies and mentors

Having someone believe in you can make all the difference. Throughout my career, I've seen how important it is to have mentors - people who recognise your abilities and encourage you to go further. When I was studying, I noticed that when my male classmates struggled with complex problems, they would often come to me for help. It was a quiet validation of my skills, even when I wasn't sure of them myself.

Seek out mentors and allies, both male and female. Join networks, attend industry events, and connect with others who can offer guidance. And as you grow in your career, pay it forward - be the mentor that helps another woman break into the field.

• Advocate for yourself - because no one else will do it for you

One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing career growth with family responsibilities. When my ex-husband and I had our first child in Germany, I had to take time off while he continued advancing in his career. By the time I re-entered the workforce, he had already moved up to senior roles. The same thing happened again in Denmark, despite the country's better conditions for working mothers.

This experience taught me an important lesson: if you don't advocate for yourself, no one else will. Women often wait to be recognised for their work, while men are more likely to ask for promotions, raises, and opportunities. Don't wait for permission to advance - make your ambitions known.

• Challenge the stereotypes - especially in your own mind

There are so many stereotypes about women in technology, and the most damaging ones are the ones we internalise. When my daughters tell me that maths is "too hard," I ask them, "Why do you think that?" Their response? "Because everyone says so."

It's not that maths or technology is inherently harder for women - it's that these fields have been shaped by male-dominated perspectives for so long. But that is changing, and we are part of that change. The more women enter tech, the more we redefine what success looks like.

• Just go for it

If you're passionate about technology, don't let fear or self-doubt hold you back. You don't need to have it all figured out before you start. The best way to learn is by doing. Surround yourself with people who support you, believe in your abilities, and challenge you to grow.

It's not always easy to fit in, but if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: when someone tells you, "You can do it," you start to believe it yourself. And when you believe in yourself, nothing can hold you back.