Why You Should Take The WITI/IDC Survey

It's easy to understand how collecting data is beneficial for groups like WITI, which aim to change the makeup of employees across entire industries. Taking the Women in Tech Survey is just one way for participants to directly influence the events WITI hosts and the content they provide. Something I did not expect from the survey, however, was the amount of self-reflection it offered. I was happy to contribute to the shaping of WITI's content, but I was also grateful for the time to consider my position.

- In many ways, the survey is straightforward. It takes around 20 minutes and asks the expected questions. What was your previous job like? What was your role? What about your current job? Soon after, though, it begins to ask questions focused more on the participant's personal values. It was this middle part that forced me to think carefully about my answers.

- These questions helped me decisively figure out what I was searching for in a job. One asked me to identify what was most important to me as �"measures of a successful career.” That was easy. There were maybe 12 options, and I quickly selected most of them. Just as quickly, though, I realized I was limited to selecting only a few. I had to consider which measures were truly the most important to me. I had the same reaction to a question regarding what element of my career I would improve. The survey also provides individuals in senior management roles with possible changes they can make to their companies.

- Another set of questions that stuck out to me concerned workplace diversity. Instead of asking about specific policies being followed by the company, the survey asks participants how the environment of the workplace feels. Companies may be legally following hiring guidelines or workplace requirements, but aren't promoting a culture that is welcoming of many different genders, races, political views, or religions. This survey asks the participant to reflect on the type of environment their company fosters -- outside of the bare minimum.

Many of the questions had me compare my own values to the values of the companies I have worked for. This exercise helped me construct a path for my career. It gave me time to think about where I had been, where I currently am, and where I want to go. Societies that value work and productivity as much as the US does often shy away from self-reflection. The attitude is �"go, go, go,” without leaving time to be present in the moment.

Making the time to take the Women in Tech Survey resolves two issues at once. You can productively influence WITI's content, but, let's be honest, you can also use it as a great excuse to take a breather, consider your current position, and set goals for the future.

- The survey can be taken by clicking here. It can also be found in the June newsletters. Make sure to leave the tab open to save your progress.

Opinions expressed by the author are not necessarily those of WITI.