Beyond Coders: 5 Reasons Why Tech Companies Need a Diverse Team to Thrive

Tech companies have long been seen as the domain of coders and engineers, but the reality is that building a successful tech company requires a much more diverse set of skills and perspectives. Below I've listed five reasons why you need more than just a bunch of coders to build a successful tech company:

1. Diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making

Research has consistently shown that diverse teams make better decisions and are more innovative than homogenous teams. In a study of over 1,700 companies, McKinsey found that teams with more diverse leadership were 35% more likely to financially outperform their industry peers.

2. Customers are diverse

Companies that serve a diverse group of customers benefit from having diverse teams that can accurately understand and meet the needs of those customers. For example, a tech company developing products for women would likely benefit from the insights and perspectives of women on the development team.

3. The addition of Non-technical leadership is crucial

Tech companies need leaders who understand and appreciate the importance of technology, but who are not threatened by or dismissive of it. These leaders should be able to collaborate effectively with technical teams and bring a range of non-technical skills to the table, such as strategy, communication, and operations. A diverse leadership team that includes both technical and non-technical leaders can help a company navigate the challenges and opportunities of the tech industry.

4. Strong company culture is key to retention

A positive company culture is important for retaining top talent, and diverse teams are more likely to foster a positive and inclusive culture. In a survey of 1,000 professionals, 85% of respondents said that diversity and inclusion are important to them when evaluating job offers.

5. Ethics and social responsibility matter

As creators of products and services that can significantly impact society, it is important for tech companies to carefully consider the ethical and social implications of their actions. A diverse team with a variety of perspectives and experiences can provide valuable insights and help address these crucial issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, building a successful tech company requires more than just a bunch of coders. By embracing diversity in all its forms, tech companies can improve decision-making, better serve their customers, tap into a larger talent pool, create a positive company culture, and consider the ethical and social implications of their work.