You can’t be what you can’t see. Over 40 per cent of India’s girls attend STEM courses, but only 14 per cent are employed in STEM careers. This leaky pipeline results in their education and workplace potential going unused, and eventually wasted. Part of the problem is the lack of representation, and this becomes a vicious cycle. One way to change the narrative is to ensure there are enough role models for women who want to pursue careers in science-related fields. Going one step further, role models-turned-mentors can hugely encourage women to stay in the STEM workplace.
According to the American Society for Microbiology, ‘Mentoring has been shown to play a key role in skills development, career advancement, success and socioemotional support. Studies show a direct correlation between effective mentorship programs and improvements in participation and representation of women in STEM fields. Additionally, women who receive mentorship and actively engage with supportive communities are significantly more likely to thrive in their careers. According to Cigna, around 70 per cent of women attribute their career success to having a mentor or network of support, and 81 per cent agree that to succeed as a woman one must receive support from and give support to other women in the workplace. The latter statistic highlights the fact that mentorship does not only benefit the mentee, but also the mentor.”
Here’s how mentorship programmes can benefit women in science careers:
Alleviates Imposter Syndrome: When one woman mentors another, it helps increase the latter’s self-worth. Riddhima Jacob, HR at a pharmaceutical company says, ‘Most women experience imposter syndrome, or the feeling of not being good enough. They believe they don’t belong in the workplace, and suffer from a sense of inadequacy. This is primarily because of underrepresentation and feeling ‘less than’ their male counterparts. Workplaces are still rife with gender stereotypes that women are not meant for STEM, and other microaggressions further heighten this feeling. With the right kind of mentorship, women can overcome self-doubt and the fear of failure. They are willing to bask in the success of their accomplishments, and accept more challenging roles confidently.’
Provides Career Guidance: Female mentors can help you identify and understand industry trends, offering observations and opportunities for skill development. A study from Harvard Business Review revealed that female employees with mentors are five times as likely to be promoted as those without. Mentors can help younger women navigate workplace challenges efficiently, ensuring that they’re prepared to take on obstacles and deal with them. They can help set clear goals and responsibilities so that you feel accountable to work towards it. They also provide invaluable feedback. With the right mentor, you can channel your skills productively and reduce burnout.
Enables Institutional Support: With the right kind of mentorship, women and organisations are often in sync with one other. This benefits both women employees and their workplaces. Companies are likely to have more committed women in the workforce. They’re also able to retain talent. Mentors can work hand-in-hand with both organisations and women to provide training, career development opportunities, skill-building workshops, and flexible work arrangements. They can also contribute to policymaking and promote an inclusive workplace culture with diversity, equity and inclusion. Another way that mentors can help is advocating for equal pay across genders and equal opportunity for women to thrive.
Offers Reciprocal Benefits: Mentorship doesn’t just impact the mentee, but also the mentor. Says Riddhima, ‘Firstly, mentors feel a sense of purpose and satisfaction when they are able to contribute to the success of other women in STEM career. Secondly, mentors also demonstrate leadership abilities, making employers and other key decision-makers sit up and take notice. It improves their ability to communicate and articulate thoughts clearly, and also boosts self-confidence. Mentors can also learn new skills from younger women, who bring fresh ideas and perspective to the workplace.’
Empowers Community-Building: Mentorship relies on the human connection. Forming a professional network is one of the most vital outcomes and benefits of a STEM mentorship programme. It gives both the mentor and mentee opportunities to interact with each other’s extended network. In a space where women are so underrepresented, it allows them to expand their circle of influence. When you’re looking to network with other women, do not just restrict yourself to seeking out mentors. You can also connect with a set of peers or a peer group, who can help foster a sense of community.
There is sometimes a bit of fear that comes along with the idea of a ‘mentor’. Keep in mind that a mentor is not a boss that you are formally reporting to. A mentor is someone who’s been there, walked the talk, and can unlock a world of possibilities with their experience.