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gilyssa
gilyssa

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What’s it like working with men in programming?

From one woman to another

I’ve been working in programming for 5 years, and since college, I’ve mostly been surrounded by men: 4 years of studying and most of my professional career. This experience has brought incredible lessons but also a fair share of challenges.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

👩‍💻 Don’t take things personally.
Communication in tech (still male-dominated) can be more direct or objective. It wasn’t always easy at first, but understanding that it’s not personal made everything lighter.

🎯 Be clear and straightforward.
I’ve learned that clarity and assertiveness are key. Being direct about what I think, need, or explain avoids misunderstandings and builds respect.

🤝 Value the exchange of ideas.
Working with different perspectives taught me to be flexible and to stand my ground when necessary. No one is always right, and collaboration is far more powerful than ego.

🌱 Break stereotypes.
Although the industry is evolving, subtle biases still exist. I chose to see this as an opportunity to show that women belong wherever they want — including leading complex projects.

Today, I feel confident in my space, and I can see how this journey has shaped my resilience and self-assurance. To other women in tech or thinking about joining: don’t give up. Being a woman in technology is challenging but also transformative. 🚀

How about you? How have you tackled challenges in the tech world? Let’s share experiences in the comments!

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