Each quarter, this podcast releases our research data on the makeup of IT leadership, broken down by race and sex. By surveying public websites, we’re looking to track the change over time.
This quarter, we surveyed 300 companies and four thousand three hundred eighty-two humans across those organizations. 48% vendors, 48% technology providers. This quarter, we found that 89.9% are White, and 3.19% are Black. The breakdown is also 78.1% male. This is nearly identical to last quarter, although roughly point four percent more Black. The data remains similar between vendors and tech providers, although our tech provider percentage is now approximately 2% higher than the combined number. Only when we look at publically traded or Fortune 100 companies do the numbers improve for women, still at roughly 25%. The racial divide remains within 2 percent.
Also of note – this data has been relatively consistent since we began the report in September 2020.
Imposter syndrome, characterized by self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy, disproportionately affects high-achieving women. Around 25 to 30 percent of high achievers may suffer from imposter syndrome, with women of color being more affected. A study by KPMG found that 75% of executive women have experienced imposter syndrome, and 74% believe their male counterparts do not experience self-doubt as much. Overcoming imposter syndrome can be achieved by seeking mentorship, surrounding oneself with a supportive network, reflecting on accomplishments, celebrating successes, and embracing a positive mantra.
Why do we care?
As more women enter these roles, cybersecurity protocols may need to adapt to new targeted attacks, such as gender-based phishing schemes. MSPs could offer specialized security services for a diverse workforce. Have you considered alternate versions?
MSPs could develop or offer tools that allow companies to track diversity metrics, thus actively improving those numbers quickly. And really going out with a big idea, MSPs could provide diversity and inclusion consulting as part of their service portfolio. Helping companies improve their internal statistics could be beneficial socially, mitigate risk, and improve decision-making.
My main takeaway is that doing the same thing we’re doing now isn’t getting results.