Workplace Culture that Hinders and Assists the Career Development of Women in Information Technology

Abstract

This study examines both the positive and negative roles that workplace culture plays in the career development of women in information technology (IT). The literature has described the IT workplace culture as having certain characteristics that are unique to the industry and unique to White male culture. The IT culture has been described as largely White, male dominated, anti-social, individualistic, and competitive. Although many of these workplace culture characteristics were supported by this study, it was the collaborative and teamwork oriented aspect of their workplace environment and working together on projects and building close relationships with colleagues that benefited the study participants the most in their career development. If organizations want to attract and retain talented women into their IT workforce, they must have an understanding of both the positive and negative workplace culture characteristics that affect women’s career development in IT.