The AI Gender Gap: Are We Leaving Women Behind?

A recent study in The Economist (see comments) revealed a concerning trend: women are 16-20% less likely to use AI tools than men, even in the same jobs. As an AI advisor and fractional CMO, I’ve seen AI level the playing field, but we can’t ignore this widening gap.

Some key takeaways:

• This gender gap persists across industries: only 1 in 3 female teachers use AI at work, compared to 1 in 2 male teachers. For software developers, about 2 in 3 men use AI, but less than half of women do.

• High-achieving women are less likely to use AI. The researchers suggest this might be due to self-imposed restrictions, with one describing it as a “good girl thing” – the idea that “I have to go through this pain, I have to do it on my own and I shouldn’t cheat and take short-cuts.”

• Interestingly, companies value women with AI skills more, offering them 8% higher salaries, a premium not extended to men.

This matters because AI is democratizing tech with just natural language, no coding required. Companies value employees who can guide AIs responsibly. For AI to benefit all of humanity, we need diverse voices influencing it.

To Sandy Carter, Allie K. Miller, Tahnee Perry, Lara Shackelford, Jessica Hreha, Erin Mills, Cathy McPhillips, Jillyn Johnson, Katie Robbert, Rachel Woods, Debi Davis, Lauren Morgenstein Schiavone, Nicole Leffer, Celeste Yamile 🤖, Helen Baptist, Jill Axline, Wendy White, Kimber Spradlin, Susan Westwater, Carol-Lyn Jardine, Baylee Jost, Megan Ratcliff, Maryrose Lyons, and more, you’re not just using the tech responsibly, you’re blazing trails.

My call to action for women in tech (and beyond):

• Embrace AI literacy. It’s critical for making informed decisions in our careers, businesses, and society.

• Lean in. In this AI era, we’re all learners. No room for impostor syndrome and judgment as no one is an expert. Your voice and perspective are invaluable.

• Take up space. Participate in AI discussions, contribute to projects, and share your unique insights.

• Seek out training and mentorship. Don’t let a perceived lack of expertise hold you back. Many organizations like the Marketing AI Institute, AI Marketing Forum, The AI Exchange, and Institute Of Ai Studies, offer resources to help you get started. Also listen to AI podcasts like Leveraging AI, FutureCraft Marketing, and The Artificial Intelligence Show

• Challenge the “good girl” mindset. Using AI tools responsibly isn’t cheating. You guide AI with your unique expertise, knowledge, and data to get the most out of it, making your work faster, better, and innovative

Remember that the rising tide lifts all boats. By learning and sharing together, we can close this gap. The field of AI is young, making this the perfect time for women to make their mark.

What steps are you taking to embrace AI? How can we better support women in gaining AI literacy?

#AILiteracy #WomenInTech #AI #GenderEquality #TechInclusion GrowthPath Partners