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Fairygodboss Women in Technology

The official Fairygodboss Group for women working in STEM like software engineering, data science and more!

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Group Post

Anonymous
04/13/22 at 4:49PM UTC (Edited)
in
Fairygodboss Women in Technology

Writing job reqs.

Studies have come out that women are less likely to apply for a job if they don't feel 100% qualified. Is there a better way to set up a job req that reduces that? I've focused on moving things to "preferred" that aren't absolutely necessary for the job, or could be learned on the job, but is there anything else that would help? I'd love to get more women in aerospace!

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Joanne Rosen
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1.66k
Resume Writer Extraordinaire!
05/06/22 at 3:09PM UTC
I talked my way into a job once by saying, I know you think you want xyz, but this is why you want me with abc qualifications. Make sure your resume is customized for the position. Use the summary to show what you DO match, and then write and amazing cover letter pitching why your skills would be better! Cheers Joanne https://www.analyticadvantagecc.com
Anonymous
04/28/22 at 7:15PM UTC
I appreciate seeing things like: Must haves - with a list of a few skills Preferred but not mandatory - list of items or when skill requirements are listed as "Bachelors degree or the equivalent work experience"
Georgene Huang
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5.35k
CEO & Co-founder of Fairygodboss
04/13/22 at 7:47PM UTC
We have a phrase we add to job descriptions at Fairygodboss that our VP of Product came up with and I think a number of applicants have appreciated and said made them interested in applying: "The requirements above are our best efforts at describing who would be successful in this position. We’re probably wrong about some things. If you’re interested in what we’re doing and think you’d be a good fit, please apply even if you don’t meet all the requirements above."
Dawn Jardine
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20
04/13/22 at 6:39PM UTC
"nice to have" works well, and even a disclaimer saying, "don't feel you're the right fit? Apply anyway and start the conversation."
Nancy Cincotta
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414
04/13/22 at 7:09PM UTC
Yes, I've seen the actual stats the OP write at the beginning of her post as a way of inviting a variety of people to apply written in the actual job ad. Great way to expand a hiring manager's pool of diverse talent!
Kristin
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117
04/13/22 at 6:08PM UTC
Maybe be explicit in the posting - something to the effect of "if you feel like you can meet 50% or more of these preferred qualifications, please apply." Or something to the effect of "If you feel like your skillset and experience might make you a great fit for this role, even if they don't exactly match our list, we'd love to hear why."
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About this group

A community of women who are focused on helping other women advance in technology. We encourage collaboration, open discussions on pressing issues in STEM and women in tech. Join our group to grow your network with other women in technology in a supportive, collaborative environment!

Group rules

Women in Technology Guidelines & Rules The purpose and focus of this site is to provide a forum that opens channels of communication for the support, development and retention of women throughout her career in science, technology, engineering, math, manufacturing and design. Stay On Topic and Be Respectful We encourage and welcome your comments and feedback, provided that you share your viewpoint in a way that is respectful to our community, Be open and original — ...Read more
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