How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired as a Woman

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The odds aren’t stacked in your favor if you’re trying to get hired as a woman in today’s workforce. On average, men get hired over women 77% of the time when it comes to the same exact jobs at the same companies. If you’re a woman trying to get hired, there are some unique strategies you can use to increase your chances of being chosen over male candidates, which will ensure you won’t be passed over during your job search process. If you’re ready to learn how to increase your chances of getting hired as a woman, keep reading!

Do not be afraid to apply

The biggest mistake women make when applying for jobs is not being afraid to apply. While your friends might think it’s crazy, don’t be afraid to apply for jobs you might not be qualified for. Jobs are often posted without qualifications, which means that employers are looking more at applicants’ past work experience and overall fit with their organization. If you can communicate why you’re excited about working at a company, there is nothing stopping you from applying. Even if they aren’t hiring yet, an employer will remember a candidate who really wants their job down the road. This tactic doesn't always work—but when it does, it's well worth it!

Act Confident

When you walk into an interview, act confident. Whether you believe in yourself or not doesn’t matter — if you appear confident in your ability and what you bring to the table, that will go much further than any story about how someone helped save your life. Besides, confidence is attractive and hiring managers tend to like candidates who exude confidence. You don’t have to pretend like you know everything there is about whatever industry your interviewing for, but show some self-assurance and an interest in learning more. There are no take-backs in an interview — even if it doesn’t work out with that employer, keep that confident attitude moving forward with other interviews or contacts. You never know who might notice something special about your attitude!

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Be honest with your experience

If you don’t have experience in a certain field, admit it. Employers aren’t looking for someone who claims to know everything there is to know about an industry—they want someone who will admit when they don’t know something and are ready to learn. The best candidate for any job won’t be arrogant about their skill set but honest about their strengths and weaknesses. It may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people overstate their abilities when looking for work. If you are forced into asking yourself if you really believe your skills/experience/accomplishments match what is required in a position, take time out from writing your resume and think it through before continuing.

Work on your communication skills

Communication skills are key to increasing your chances of getting hired. Employers want employees who can communicate clearly and get along with co-workers. To prove you have these skills, write an email asking for information about a job position or salary. You could also ask friends or family members for references if you think you'll need them later on in your job search process.

Network everywhere you go

Networking is an essential part of getting hired. Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards at industry conferences, but about going to networking events and establishing yourself in your local community. The latter can be done through volunteering for causes you care about or even by forming relationships with people you already know—people who could help you get a job (or at least get your foot in the door). Many hiring managers seek out candidates who are involved with their communities, so think of networking as making new friends as well as bolstering your network. The more circles you’re involved in, particularly if they revolve around groups that share your interests and career goals, then it will be easier for others to vouch for you when jobs open up.

Take risks and ask questions

Be willing to take risks by making mistakes and asking questions, instead of sitting back and hoping for things to fall into place. Employers want someone who will make an impact in their company, so put yourself out there. This is especially important if you’re trying to get hired as a woman. In terms of salary negotiations, ask for more than you expect—you never know what they will offer in return (the job). It’s always better if they come up with your number than if you give them one. Even if they don’t agree, it gives you an idea where they are coming from salary-wise.