Economists are calling it “The Great Resignation.” Workers across industries are quitting their jobs at unprecedented rates—and women in tech are leading the charge. Understanding why reveals both the failures of the past and the opportunity ahead.
What Is the Great Resignation?
Texas A&M professor Anthony Klotz coined the term in May 2021 to describe a mass voluntary exodus from the workforce. The numbers are staggering: since April 2021, approximately 4 million Americans have quit their jobs every month.
This isn’t typical turnover. It’s a fundamental reassessment of work—what it means, what it’s worth, and whether specific jobs deserve employees’ commitment.
Why Women Are Leading
Within the Great Resignation, women—especially women in tech—are disproportionately represented. Several factors explain why:
1. The Pandemic Revealed the Truth
COVID-19 stripped away illusions about work-life balance. Women discovered that their employers’ flexibility was conditional, their advancement paths were fragile, and their contributions were undervalued. Once seen, these truths couldn’t be unseen.
2. Caregiving Reached a Breaking Point
For 18 months, working mothers have shouldered impossible burdens: full-time jobs plus childcare plus remote learning. Many are simply exhausted. Quitting isn’t abandoning ambition—it’s survival.
3. Options Exist
The tech industry is hiring aggressively. Women who were stuck in unsatisfying roles now have alternatives. Why stay somewhere that doesn’t value you when competitors are offering better deals?
4. Values Have Clarified
The pandemic forced reflection. Many women realized their jobs weren’t aligned with their values. Life is short; why spend it in toxic workplaces?
The Opportunity for Employers
The Great Resignation creates winners and losers. Companies losing women are feeding talent pools that competitors can access.
For employers genuinely committed to diversity, this is a moment of opportunity:
- Exceptional talent is available – Women leaving other companies are entering the market
- Values differentiation matters – Companies that treat women well stand out
- Flexibility is table stakes – Employers offering remote options win
- Culture is visible – Glassdoor reviews and word-of-mouth spread quickly
What Women Want
Research consistently identifies what women seek from employers:
- Flexibility – Real flexibility, not just permission to work odd hours
- Fair compensation – Equal pay for equal work, transparent salary bands
- Advancement paths – Clear routes to leadership, not glass ceilings
- Inclusive culture – Environments free from harassment and “bro culture”
- Meaningful work – Contribution that matters, not just a paycheck
Companies that deliver these elements retain talent. Those that don’t watch it leave.
WomenHack’s Role
WomenHack connects women exploring new opportunities with employers who might deserve them. Our events—both virtual and in-person as conditions allow—facilitate conversations that help both sides find good matches.
We also vet participating employers. Not every company belongs at a WomenHack event. We partner with organizations that demonstrate genuine commitment to diversity through actions, not just words.
The Message for Employers
The Great Resignation is a reckoning. Companies that have relied on inertia to retain talent are discovering that inertia has limits.
If you’re losing women, ask why. If you want to attract women, examine what you’re offering. The talent is available. The question is whether your company deserves it.
Partner with WomenHack to connect with women seeking employers worthy of their commitment.