Intersectional networking, recruiting (notes)

Day: 1
Session Time/Number:   5, 3-4
Session Space: D

Convener: Erica
Notetaker: Margo

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Specific resources to share from session:  (links, books, organizations, articles etc.)
TEALs: http://www.microsoft.com/about/corporatecitizenship/en-us/youthspark/computerscience/teals/

Just one of the guys: http://www.amazon.com/Just-One-Guys-Transgender-Persistence/dp/0226738078

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Discussion Notes:
Goals:
Why is the pipeline leaky?
– work environment discomfort
– not seeing representation
– lack of flexibility of work environment
– family issues
– burnout

How do we fix it?
How do family issues impact?
– After work networking events–really hard to make once you have one
– Added stress of not having readily available daycare and family leave
– Mommy gap

Actionable recruitment strategies
– bring diverse schools of children together to build projects
– mentor college-aged latino engineers: general business skills, resumes
– minority organizations (e.g., society of latino engineers, NAACP, urban league)
– TEALs program
– if white: seek organizations out, offer services
– When asked for recommendations:
– do a first pass at a list of people, then do another pass for diversity and inclusion
– Signal boost diverse groups in technology
– Signal boost opportunities for others

Feminism with regard to minoritized groups
– How do we get opportunities out to minoritized groups
– give to minority scholarship programs
– give passes to conferences
– talk about opportunities in diverse groups
– look at expanding computer literacy programs to how to code

Retention
– Flexibility
– Inclusive environments
– Hold people accountable for being respectful
– Have explicit expectations
– Top down culture change
– Have effective HR conversations with visible follow-through
– Encourage men to challenge other men’s bad behavior
– Allow anonymous reviews of leadership
– Equal pay
– Push for visibility of pay gaps
– Have the confidence to ask for raises

Have perspective:
– Be ready for ups and downs

How do you avoid the straw the breaks the camel’s back?
– Have a supportive network