Knowing one’s worth can be an underlying struggle in any professional’s career. In particular, women can feel they lack the seniority, expertise or contacts to apply for a promotion or pay rise. Others might feel qualified for a new role, but seem to be consistently overlooked by management.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the national gender pay gap is currently at 18.8% with men coming out on top. The source of the discrepancy is complex, but gaining confidence and recognition in the workplace can be an important step for women hoping to maximise their pay potential.
Louise Harvey-Wills, Executive General Manager, People at NAB, says even in egalitarian workplaces women can do more to leverage their skills.
“You can be working somewhere with the best policies, programs and practices that give both men and women the same career opportunities, but if you don’t believe in yourself and take advantage of the career opportunities then you may be compromising your personal value.”
Those career opportunities might not be immediately obvious. With women often feeling as though they need to be overqualified for a position, Harvey-Wills says they should be proactive and try to push their own boundaries.
“To get noticed we should all take chances and step out of our comfort zones to make this happen. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you.”
That same proactive solution can apply to women who feel undervalued in the workplace. Harvey-Wills advises women to communicate directly with their senior managers, raising constructive solutions, not just complaints.
Don’t just wing it
Taking control over one’s career requires not just confidence, but also time and research.
“One tip I have for women to improve and gain more confidence around financial matters and their careers is to ensure they invest the adequate time in themselves,” says Harvey-Wills. “Talk to people who have the knowledge and skills that you’re after.”
She also recommends women thoroughly research both global and local trends in their industries and other markets.
“And leverage your networks to test your thinking and your reasoning to give you the confidence you need.”
The importance of role models, sponsors and mentors – one’s personal board of directors – should not be underestimated, notes Harvey-Wills.
“Your sponsors are integral in your career progression and development, so use them.”
The professional networks gained in the course of a woman’s career can help expand her skills and consolidate her expertise.
For those looking to gain new skills or change the direction of their career, education can also be a valuable source of confidence. Study, says Harvey-Wills, can give professionals new ways of utilising their existing skills, and challenge their thinking.
However, she advises women think carefully about what they hope to gain from study before embarking on a new course.
“When determining if study is right for you, be clear on what you want to achieve from it and how it relates to your career aspirations,” she says.
“Technical skills and experience are important and can often be achieved learning on the job or from a secondment opportunity.”
Success lies in your attitude
Ultimately, Harvey-Wills says, having the right attitude can be one of the biggest assets in a woman’s career.
“You need to have the confidence and self-belief to back yourself, whatever your age or experience. If you believe you can do something and present it confidently, then you minimise the chance of underselling your true skills and the value you can bring,” she explains.
“Be authentic to your values. If you are true to yourself, your ambitions and your priorities, it can only strengthen your earning potential.”
For more information on NAB’s Start Counting program visit: www.startcounting.com.au.
Written by: Jessie Richardson