On IWD, women are being encouraged to get the careers they want and deserve

International Women’s Day (IWD) is acknowledged annually on 8 March and serves as a focal point in the women’s rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

 

In 2023, the IWD theme is ‘Embrace Equity’, a theme that encourages the global community to get talking and thinking about why equal opportunities aren’t enough, and to consider that “people start from different places”, and that true belonging and inclusion require equitable action. 

 

The IWD campaign has released a number of resources, tip sheets, articles, case studies and stories to inspire women all around the world to embrace equity. One such resource is a series of nine tips for women to get the career they want and deserve in 2023 and beyond. 

 

1. Be prepared 

 

‘Being prepared’ means planning the job application process strategically, way before applying for jobs. 

 

“Avoid the common mistake of going into the hunt blindly, sending your resume out to tens, if not hundreds, of postings and getting overwhelmed,” the IWD team recommended. 

 

“Fully consider the career path you want to go down, and pinpoint where, who, and what you want to apply for. Adopting a mixture of both proactive (finding job postings yourself) and reactive (applying to jobs advertised) job hunts can stand you in good stead.”

 

2. Ensure your documents are in top shape

 

Ensure cover letters, resume, and any internal job application questions are succinct and relevant to the role. Proof-reading for any potential grammar and spelling mistakes is a must. 

 

3. Don’t be deterred if you don’t fit the brief fully

 

Women will sometimes be deterred from applying for roles because they do not fit every single aspect of the job description. In these instances the advice is “feel the fear and apply anyway”.

 

According to a Linkedin Gender Insights Report, female professionals only apply to jobs if they are 100 per cent qualified, as opposed to men who will apply if they fit the criteria by 60 per cent. 

 

“So be determined, promote your worth, and showcase how you have the drive and determination to tick all the boxes once on the job,” IWD campaigners say.

 

4. Research, research, research 

 

While it’s key to research well ahead of the job interview, it’s also important ahead of the application process. Researching the organisation extensively, and the potential line manager, and making a follow-up call post application can certainly show initiative and interest. 

 

Once the interview is secured, preparation is essential, and prospective employees should go into the interview with knowledge of the job role, organisation, and immediate staff members they could be working with, which not only shows enthusiasm for the role but can help calm nerves and build up confidence.

 

5. Be your biggest fan, but don’t make it about you

 

By being asked to attend a job interview, the potential interviewer will already be willing to employ the applicant ‘on paper.’ Therefore, the interview stage is about deciding which candidates might best fit the organisation. 

 

“So sell yourself, and your attributes, and be the best version of you,” the IWD campaigners advise. 

 

“Ensure, however, that you not only focus on why you’d be great for the job, but also what you can achieve for the organisation. This is where differentiating your strengths, achievements, and skills can truly come into play.” 

 

6. Thrive on questions

 

While many fear the “do you have any questions?” part of the interview, this should be a time that candidates use to their advantage. 

 

“It’s your chance to determine whether the employer is right for you, and also to delve deeper into the organisation, what their expectations are of you, and any further questions you may feel are relevant. Don’t sing off the same hymn sheet as everyone else, ask the questions you really want to know,” campaigners advise. 

 

7. Follow up with a communication

 

At the conclusion of the interview, candidates should take time to follow up with the interviewer and potential line manager post the job interview meeting, which reinforces and showcases determination, enthusiasm for the role, and a drive to succeed. 

 

“Thanking your interviewer for the chance to showcase your skills is a great way to start building a good relationship, and the further contact can certainly help make you more memorable among other candidates.”

 

8. Know your worth

 

Once a job offer has been made, candidates are in a position to negotiate.

 

“If you haven’t already specified a salary, now is the time to drill down and ensure you are paid what you are worth,” campaigners said. 

 

“Research salaries for comparable roles to assess and determine what you think you’re worth. Pitched with an unsatisfactory offer? Don’t be afraid to challenge it, but be fair, and ensure you’re armed with research as to why.”

 

9. Be a lifelong learner

 

Learning doesn’t stop when qualifications are gained. 

 

“Whatever stage of your career you’re in, there’s always a chance to learn new skills, adapt to new career avenues, and embrace unexpected journeys,” the campaigners said. 

 

“Showing willingness and enthusiasm for any learning or skill development will stand you in good stead when promotions or new job opportunities arise.”

 

For more ideas about how to celebrate IWD, please see here.