Six Ideas For Latina Inclusion In The IT Channel

Latinas make up less than 2 percent of the U.S. tech workforce, and roughly 1 percent of engineers in the U.S., however inclusion initiatives often fail to address their specific challenges and barriers. Natalia Herrera, global head of marketing and alliances for channels at Logitech, tells CRN the best ways to fix that problem.

The tech industry, while known for its innovation, still faces challenges regarding diversity and inclusion, particularly for Latinas. Despite organizations claiming to value diversity, Latinas continue to be underrepresented in tech and leadership roles.

In an interview with CRN, Natalia Herrera, global head of marketing and alliances for channels at Logitech, shares her insights on how inclusive leaders and organizations can help Latinas thrive in the IT channel. Below are six actionable ideas for Latinas striving to make their mark in the tech industry.

1. Break Through Biases And Stereotypes

Latinas often face both racial and gender biases, which can limit their career advancement. According to Herrera, biases and stereotypes about Latinas’ abilities and perceived lack of cultural fit remain a significant barrier:

"Latinas specifically have not only a racial bias sometimes, but also a gender bias. That can affect hiring, promotion opportunities, and investment."

Recognizing and challenging these biases is the first step toward change. Latinas in IT can work to educate themselves and others about these biases while pushing for organizations to adopt more equitable hiring practices.

2. Seek And Build Role Models And Mentorship

One of the critical gaps for Latinas is the lack of visible role models in tech leadership. Herrera emphasizes the importance of seeing people like yourself in positions of power:

"In the recruiting process, there needs to be specific role models, diverse role models that can lend a pin onto a diverse group of people."

Latinas can actively seek mentors and sponsors within their organizations and beyond. By doing so, they can create pathways not just for themselves, but for the next generation of Latina leaders in the channel.

3. Expand Your Network

Latinas often face a limited network in the tech industry. Herrera noted that although progress has been made for women in general, there is still work to be done specifically for Latinas:

"We see a lot more progress on the women's side, but Latinas specifically, there's still smaller groups that support that scenario."

Building a professional network is key to career growth. Latinas can leverage Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and industry-specific organizations to connect with others who share their background and career aspirations. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, mentorship, and support systems that are critical for advancement.

4. Advocate For Tailored Inclusion Programs

One-size-fits-all diversity initiatives may not address the unique challenges Latinas face in the workplace. Herrera believes that inclusion programs must be tailored to meet the needs of different groups:

"While we're trying to be inclusive of all the groups, each group has different disadvantages... there needs to be a very specific approach to addressing the barriers for their advancement."

Latinas should advocate for programs that address the specific obstacles they face in the tech industry, such as targeted mentorship, sponsorship, and recruitment efforts designed to provide them with the support they need to excel.

5. Push For Early Recruitment Initiatives

Early exposure to STEM fields is critical for Latinas. Herrera highlights the need for educational institutions and companies to create targeted outreach programs:

"We need to see a lot earlier exposure and engagement to STEM programs for Latinas specifically."

Latinas can encourage companies to build recruitment pipelines that start early, reaching out to schools and universities that serve underrepresented communities. Being proactive in these efforts ensures that young Latinas see tech as a viable career path.

6. Leverage Cultural Diversity In Business Strategy

Latinas can use their unique cultural insights to drive business strategy. Herrera emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse markets, especially when working in global roles:

"You don't get that from sitting behind your desk. You actually have to go to the markets and kind of understand that from working with distributors or specific channels of that country or region."

Latinas working in the IT channel can advocate for immersive experiences that allow companies to leverage cultural diversity in their go-to-market strategies. This creates meaningful and targeted campaigns that resonate with diverse customers, providing companies with a competitive edge.

The Bottom Line

Latinas have much to offer the tech industry, but success requires both inclusive leadership efforts and organizational support. By challenging biases, building networks, advocating for targeted inclusion, and leveraging their unique perspectives, Latinas can pave the way for future generations. As Natalia Herrera points out, the power lies in pushing for change while also embracing the diversity that defines the IT channel.

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