According to research from Booking.com, digital e-commerce and technology leader, less than half (48%) of women currently working in tech in the UK feel that the tech industry today is prioritising gender diversity. Slightly more British women currently in the field (52%) feel that their company is prioritising diversity efforts. While initiatives to close the gender gap and encourage more women into tech are having some success, tech companies and the industry need to demonstrate greater commitment to nurturing female talent if they are to maintain a skilled workforce.
When asked what benefits increased gender diversity can bring to the tech industry, 89% of British women surveyed said it would help diversify the sector, bringing fresh perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. They also cited greater flexibility in HR benefits (91%) and an improved work environment that would benefit all employees (90%). Beyond these cultural benefits, women feel their increased representation in the UK tech workforce will contribute to improved company and brand reputation (88%), as well as trust in tech companies in general (84%).
In addition to retaining talent, tech companies need to better support skilled women seeking to re-enter the sector. Currently, six in ten female re-entrants to tech in the UK — or those who have taken a break and returned to the industry (60%) — view taking a career break as detrimental to their individual progression. Almost two-thirds (65%) believe the industry needs to actively do more to support their re-entry to the field.
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