Is it possible I'm underselling myself?

Anonymous

September 19,2022 at 1:27PM UTC

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Is it possible I'm underselling myself?

I was laid off from my director-level job with a small, national nonprofit about a month ago. Twice during my job search, I applied for Executive Director roles on a whim. And twice, my application has resulted in requests for at least first interviews with two different organizations(one organization decided not to move forward but said in their follow-up email, "some organization is going to be very lucky to bring you on board," and I'm still in process with the other one).

Is it possible that I have been underselling/undervaluing myself by focusing on new positions at the same level instead of seeking higher ones?

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Kathryn MontbriandSeptember 19,2022 at 1:33PM UTC
It is certainly possible! When I'm considering roles I like to remind myself that women typically don't apply to a role unless they meet 100% of qualification whereas men will apply once they meet 60% of the ask.
Think about what kinds of problems you were solving at the director level and how those might translate into being an awesome Executive Director. Chances are you have a variety of skills that are interesting to the hiring committees and you might just need to spend some time polishing the stories you tell about what you bring to the table. Cheers!
Shelly EdwardsSeptember 19,2022 at 1:45PM UTC
There is not enough information to determine if you are or are not underselling yourself. It's possible, yes, but it's also possible that you are overselling yourself to which the positions feel you might be more than they are looking for. If you worked for a national non-profit and are now applying for smaller non-profits, they may think that you are overqualified. If you were in a smaller non-profit and this is on a bigger scale, they may think that you are not ready to scale up. It's hard to determine. You just need to play to your strengths and be clear on the type of role you are looking to be in for your next position. I'd review the job description from the job postings and highlight what makes you a benefit for that position. Be honest about your skills and experiences and the right position will come along.
AnonymousSeptember 19,2022 at 2:19PM UTC
Nonprofits are generally very generous with titles because the compensation is lower than private corporations. I would cover the range from president to director.
Becca CarnahanSeptember 19,2022 at 3:58PM UTC
You're asking yourself a really important question here! Often we do undervalue our skills and experience and don't take a step back to recognize it.
I like to think about it this way, no one was born an Executive Director of an organization. They didn't pop out and start leading! They took on other roles throughout their careers that built experience and sharpened their skills.
With that in mind, a lateral move in terms of title may be a good fit depending on the criteria you have set for yourself in your next chapter of your career. But you also could consider a role that is a level higher given the skills and experience you've built if that is well aligned with your criteria.
Big takeaway here, what are some of the key things you're looking for in your next role? It's more than okay to get excited about what YOU want and that clarity will help you further refine your story and align your job search.
Good luck!
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterSeptember 19,2022 at 4:19PM UTC
Look at the requirements - I tell my clients to apply if they have at least 75-80% of what the organization is asking for.
The caveat is this: when you don't have everything they are looking for, where in the ad are the missing qualifications, and how is it worded? Typically, companies put the most important qualifications first. Also - is it a requirement, or a preferred qualification you are missing?
When in doubt - apply.