Challenges Faced by Women in STEM

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The STEM fields have historically been male-dominated and, despite the fact that women now account for at least 29% of the science and engineering workforce according to Yale Scientific, they still face a number of challenges on a daily basis. As a woman, you have immeasurable value to offer in STEM fields, so it’s vital for you to overcome the obstacles faced in the workplace and continue to drive change. Read on for some thoughts from RNA Search Inc.

Stereotypes

Although being a woman in STEM presents an array of challenges in itself, Forbes notes that people of color are often faced with additional discrimination and stereotyping too. While the HR department in your organization should be providing support in this regard, there will undoubtedly still be noticeable bias from time to time. Women and other minorities should make a concerted effort to back each other up within their teams or departments. Vouch for each other when necessary, and be vocal about the achievements of your female colleagues so that your cumulative worth is noticed. 

Confidence

It can be difficult to remain confident in your capabilities if you are surrounded by colleagues who undermine you on a regular basis. It’s important to remember that you were hired for a good reason, and take definitive steps to boost your confidence throughout the day. Celebrate every success and achievement and adopt a “why not me?” mindset. Your newfound self-assurance will be evident to those around you, and as a result, you will naturally be taken more seriously by your colleagues and superiors.

Recruitment

Finding ideal employment can be difficult considering that there is still a massive pay disparity between men and women in STEM. To add to this, the difference in wages is even bigger for women of color. To ensure that you are being treated fairly, don’t shy away from having open and honest conversations about compensation at your existing workplace and when interviewing for new roles.

Finding a mentor who helps you along your career path and advises you on how to structure your resume can open doors to better opportunities. There are also a number of free online certifications you can complete that will make recruiters and prospective employers take your applications more seriously. Advocate for your pay throughout the hiring process to ensure that you are not short-changed when you receive your contract.

Opportunities Including Medical Coding

If you’re confident in your abilities but feel that your true value isn’t appreciated by the existing organizations in your field, consider starting your own business so you are no longer hindered by their limitations. A formation service can help you get a corporation started in your state. Creating a business plan will help you structure the ideas you have, so you can decide whether it would be a worthwhile endeavor. Researching marketing tactics, funding options, and day-to-day operations may open your eyes to opportunities that you were not aware of and lead to a lucrative career.

If you’re looking for a field with more flexibility and great opportunities for growth, consider working towards becoming a medical coder. You can choose a medical coding course that’s taught online, which offers the convenience of taking coursework wherever you have an internet connection, and at an affordable cost. Working as a medical coder is both personally and professionally rewarding and could be a welcome change of pace from office politics.

While it may feel like women face setbacks in society more often than they overcome injustice, it’s important to make the best of a bad situation while continuing to advocate for change. Start with self-belief and be sure to relentlessly support the women around you while you collectively make waves in your chosen field, such as medical coding.