In a recent article titled, “New Study: Job Seekers Overconfident in Their Ability,” J.T. O’Donnell referenced the third annual Job Preparedness Indicator (JPI) study, recently completed by the Career Advisory Board. This survey identifies the gaps between the skills job seekers say they possess, and the skills employers are seeking to fill their positions. It revealed that 72 percent of job seekers possess the confidence to present their experience and skills to an interviewer and 56 percent admit they are confident they know what employers are seeking. On the flip side, only 15 percent of hiring managers state that most job seekers possess the skills their companies are in search of.



Based on this discrepancy, it is clearly evident that job seekers are overestimating their skill levels. To take it one step further, I think it would be interesting to know the gender break-down of those surveyed, as many studies have revealed that women tend to lack self-belief and confidence in the workplace compared to their male counterparts. George Washington University law professor Charles Craver, in an essay titled “The Impact of Gender on Bargaining Interactions,” confirms this point stating, “Males tend to convey more confidence than women in performance-oriented settings. Even when minimally prepared, men believe they can ‘wing it’ and get through successfully. On the other hand, no matter how thoroughly prepared women are, they tend to feel unprepared.”



Speaking from personal experience, I can definitely relate to the statement made by Professor Craver. While I do not intentionally think that men in the workplace are stronger candidates, I find myself playing the humble card in order to avoid being perceived as arrogant. I graciously accept compliments by attributing my success to luck, or the help of a co-worker, instead of simply owning my success. However, recently, I have been challenged to reconsider this response as it may convey that I lack the confidence needed to get the job done. Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, made this statement in one of her TED talks: “No one gets the promotion if they don’t think they deserve the success.” I 100% agree with this statement. Overall, I think it is about finding the healthy balance between overconfidence and self-doubt. Remember, when you underestimate your potential you won’t achieve as much as you are capable of.