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Why Allyship is Essential in the Tech Industry
I've spent my career working with tech companies and clients, so have often been the only woman in the room — a stark reminder of the industry's gender imbalance. That said, I’ve been lucky enough to work with many men who have been incredibly supportive - mentoring, advocating, and creating opportunities that helped me grow in my career. These experiences have shown me that diversity alone isn’t enough; true inclusion requires intentional actions and support from allies who can help amplify voices, challenge biases, and foster equity. Allyship is a critical driver for progress and innovation in tech, and it benefits everyone involved.
Why Diversity and Inclusion Matter in Tech
Studies consistently show that diverse teams perform better. McKinsey & Company's 2020 report reveals that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability. Additionally, Boston Consulting Group found that companies with diverse management teams generate 19% more revenue from innovation. These statistics highlight how diversity drives creativity and problem-solving—skills essential in a fast-evolving industry like tech.
However, achieving diversity isn't just about hiring more women or individuals from underrepresented groups. Inclusion is the key that unlocks diversity's potential, ensuring everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
The Role of Allyship in Driving Change
Allyship is the practice of using one's privilege or position to support and advocate for others. Allies play a crucial role in creating equitable environments by amplifying underrepresented voices and challenging biases. But allyship isn't about taking over someone else's narrative, but creating space for their experiences and ideas to shine. For example, male allies can advocate for pay equity, support flexible working policies, or mentor women and individuals from minority groups entering the tech sector.
Diversity Doesn’t Mean Exclusion
One common misconception about diversity initiatives is that they exclude men or majority groups. Creating an inclusive culture doesn't mean prioritising one group at the expense of another—it's about building an environment where everyone can succeed. A Harvard Business Review study found that men who actively support gender diversity initiatives experience greater career satisfaction and stronger relationships with their colleagues. This demonstrates how allyship creates positive outcomes for everyone involved.
Building Effective Allyship in Tech
Being an ally doesn't require grand gestures—it's about consistent actions that make a difference. Listening, learning, advocating, mentoring and challenging biases. Great allies take a proactive approach to inclusion, understanding that small actions can lead to big changes over time.
Organisations also play a vital role in fostering allyship. Here's how tech companies can lead the way:
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Provide Training: Offer workshops on unconscious bias and allyship to help employees understand their role in fostering inclusion. These sessions should be ongoing and evolve with the organisation's needs.
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Encourage Open Dialogue: Create safe spaces for honest conversations about diversity and inclusion. This includes regular forums, employee resource groups, and channels for feedback.
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Recognise Allies: Celebrate those who actively support inclusion initiatives, reinforcing positive behaviour and encouraging others to follow suit.
Leadership is particularly important—when leaders model allyship, it sets the tone for the entire organisation and demonstrates a genuine commitment to change.
A Call to Action: Be the Ally You Want to See
Allyship is an ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive world. Whether you're a developer, a manager, or just starting in tech, you have the power to make a difference. Start small: listen, advocate, and take action. By fostering allyship, we move closer to a future where the tech industry reflects the diverse world it serves. And that's a win for everyone.
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McKinsey’s Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters (2020).
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Boston Consulting Group: How Diverse Leadership Teams Boost Innovation (2018).
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Harvard Business Review: Men and Women Need to Work Together to Achieve Equality (2019)
techUK’s TechTogether campaign, taking place throughout March, is a collection of activities highlighting the UK’s technology sector pursuit to shape a more equitable future. In 2025 we are exploring: Inclusive AI, investing in diverse founders and entrepreneurs, the power of allyship and mentorship, and empowering young people.
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Zoe Billingham
Zoe Billingham is Head of Brand at Mercator Digital. With over 15 years of brand and marketing experience within the tech sector, Zoe has previously worked with clients such as: Cisco, Vodafone, Fujitsu and BT.