I have been selected to be part of a very large project that has a lot of public scrutiny.

Anonymous

October 8,2021 at 3:59PM UTC

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I have been selected to be part of a very large project that has a lot of public scrutiny. It seems like one of the reasons I’ve been selected is because I am female. I am in a male dominated industry, working in government. Should I let this get to me or just be confident that my 20 years of experience is what has gotten me here.

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Käte DavisOctober 8,2021 at 4:50PM UTC
Walk right past that Imposter Syndrome rearing it's ugly head and know that you earned that seat at the table.
Barb HansenOctober 8,2021 at 4:55PM UTC
Firstly, Congratulations!
Secondly, so what if one of the reasons you've been selected for this position is because you're a woman?
I'm sure that the bulk of the reasons that you've been selected is your experience, so lean into that.
You're part of a very large project, and you have an opportunity to do the work that your great at.
You are now a role-model for other women who now can see themselves in roles like yours!
The benefits of this opportunity far outweigh any "diversity-hire" issues.
Deborah PavekOctober 8,2021 at 5:52PM UTC
Congratulations!
Honestly, who cares if one of the reasons they chose you is because you are female? Take advantage of the opportunity, show off your 20 years of experience and expertise.
It's a large project with lots of public scrutiny make the most of it, use your powers for good and show the rest of those gov't wonks how it's done.
I've worked in a male dominated industry for 20+ years I know how daunting it can feel to be the only woman at the table. You are at the table, now make your mark and be as great as you know you are, and they probably know it too or they wouldn't have put you on a high-profile project.
Congrats again, all the best. Knock 'em dead, I know you will.
Melissa HalfonOctober 8,2021 at 6:00PM UTC
Congrats! It should not get to you because above all else, you have 20 years of experience and are a boss.
Even if your being female was a factor in your selection, think about how many people have been selected from for jobs because they were NOT women since the beginning of time. It's about time we see some selection that favors being a women.
Enjoy the opportunity!
AnonymousOctober 8,2021 at 6:22PM UTC
So what if youre the “diversity hire” — it might get you in the door for this special project. But your hard work will keep you there driving all kinds of results. You got this. :)
Krista Haugner Sieg, MBAOctober 8,2021 at 8:51PM UTC
You've got this! You have a seat at the table and it is a great time to use your voice. Leverage your 20 years of experience and don't stop learning. With a growth mindset you can re-affirm every day that having you there is the right decision!
AnonymousOctober 8,2021 at 9:26PM UTC
I would take it regarding of the reason it was offered. Don't let anything diminish the honor of being chosen.
AnonymousOctober 9,2021 at 12:48PM UTC
Don’t look for things that are not there….be confident in your experience.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistOctober 10,2021 at 4:12AM UTC
Why would you take getting a seat at the table in a negative way?