Preparing to Celebrate Women in Tech at GHC ’17

Mohak Shroff
10 min readintermediate
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Overview

The article discusses the significance of the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing (GHC) and highlights personal experiences and insights from Mohak Shroff, a Senior Vice President of Engineering at LinkedIn. It emphasizes the importance of networking, sharing stories, and overcoming barriers faced by women in technology.

What You'll Learn

1

How to effectively network at large tech conferences like GHC

2

Why it's important to plan your session attendance in advance

3

How to create a memorable elevator pitch for networking

Key Questions Answered

What are some tips for maximizing the experience at GHC?
Attendees should pick their sessions early to ensure they attend the most relevant talks, meet as many new people as possible to expand their network, and prepare a concise elevator pitch to make a lasting impression. These strategies can enhance the overall experience and opportunities at the conference.
What challenges do women in tech face when seeking job opportunities?
Women like Abby Garcia face challenges in securing interviews due to non-traditional educational backgrounds and lack of experience in major tech companies. Despite their passion and self-taught skills, they often find themselves at a disadvantage in the job market.

Key Actionable Insights

1
Plan your GHC schedule ahead of time to prioritize sessions that align with your career goals.
With thousands of attendees, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. By selecting sessions in advance, you can ensure you gain the most valuable insights and networking opportunities.
2
Engage with fellow attendees to broaden your professional network.
GHC is a unique opportunity to meet inspiring women in tech. Making connections can lead to mentorship opportunities and potential job offers.
3
Craft a clear and engaging elevator pitch to introduce yourself effectively.
A well-prepared pitch can help you stand out during networking events, making it easier to connect with others and leave a lasting impression.

Common Pitfalls

1
Failing to network beyond your immediate colleagues can limit your opportunities.
Many attendees stick with familiar faces, missing out on the chance to meet new people who could provide valuable insights or job leads.

Related Concepts

Networking Strategies
Women In Technology
Career Development In Tech