BeZero Carbon – Maggie Ou, Account Executive

We interviewed Maggie Ou, Account Executive at BeZero Carbon on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.

1. What does your job role involve?

Working with clients and prospective clients to help them understand BeZero’s software platform and API product and sell our solutions.

2. What made you choose a career in technology?

Getting to work with technology that can solve interesting real world problems in new ways. I also like how cross functional working in technology can be, there is the opportunity to approach problems working with people from many different skillsets and backgrounds.

3. Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?

I studied business and economics at university but took a few courses about IT during business school.

4. Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?

I started my career working at various SaaS start ups and then working in enterprise technology at Cisco. I always worked in business development and sales roles where I gained technical knowledge on the job and through working with internal teams, customers, partners and other stakeholders.

5. Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?

It can vary depending on the industry/market that the technology is in. There are fewer females in highly technical roles and in leadership positions then men in the tech sector. Research shows that diverse teams perform better so building inclusive teams should be the aim of any organisation. I think it’s also important to recognise and understand intersectionality as organisations strive to become more diverse.

6. Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?

I think the technology sector is not as diverse as it should be, it is great to be able to challenge this stereotype.

7. What would entice women to study technology related courses?

More female mentorship and diversity of students during courses, and diversity on the teams and at the companies that they would want to join in the workforce.

8. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?

There are many factors that can be a barrier, for example the language used in job descriptions, some industries may have fewer entry level roles, lack of diverse teams and leadership, and lack of pay transparency.

9. How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?

Creating diverse and inclusive workplaces, programs that encourage learning technical skills, creating more community for women in tech. Also showcasing the different career paths within tech (both technical roles and non technical) and more pay transparency.

10. What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?

Build strong relationships with their mentors and be vocal about where they want to go with their career and the kinds of opportunities they’re looking for. Apply for opportunities even if the qualifications seem high, always negotiate, and advocate for themselves, and keep a good record their achievements and feedback.