Honestly, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. And what’s the worst that could happen, they’ll turn you down? The current position that I’m in, I literally um’d and ah’d about whether or not I should apply. I did have the qualifications, but I didn’t really have much experience in that specific area, and I knew they’d require someone who was somewhat of an SME (subject matter expert). In other words, I was wayyyy out of my depth, and received some discouraging words from some of my colleagues too. I remember reading a research paper a few years ago that stated that even if a woman believed she had most of the skills or experience, she’d focus on what she lacked, and not apply for jobs she was interested in. So, even though I didn’t tick 100% of the boxes, I faced my self-doubt, focused on my strengths, and applied. I was queried about my experience, and although I didn’t have specific experience in that area, I shifted the conversation and stated other relevant and transferable experience I had, and listed a work history that indicated that I was a fast learner, and I was passionate. Anddd I got the job! We are so put-off by this idea that we must tick off 100% of the requirements, that we self-sabotage before even receiving an answer. In reality, you may tick off only 60% and could still be the best candidate. But you wouldn’t know, cause you didn’t apply! So, just bite the bullet. Make that shot, and apply! (Art by @mbaartist )