Many of my clients—women in tech, emerging leaders, recent grads, mid-career changers—are navigating a market that feels tougher than years past.
While the landscape is challenging, it’s also improving, and there are very real opportunities for those who know how to position themselves well.
Last night, I attended Unlocking Talent: How Women Can Power BC’s Future, and the insights were too valuable not to share.
The keynote speaker, BC’s Minister of Citizens Services, highlighted the reality many women already know:
📉 The gender gap persists
Women earn just 85 cents for every dollar their male counterparts earn. And women remain significantly underrepresented in technical and leadership roles.
But the province is taking action by investing in:
✅ Girls in STEM programs
✅ Expanded tech education and internship spaces
✅ A Women in Tech scholarship program
Her message was clear: women are essential to economic growth and community resilience.
But there’s another barrier we don’t talk about enough: underestimating your own abilities.
Research shows that women consistently undervalue their skills, hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet 100% of the criteria, and struggle with confidence in both leadership and entrepreneurship.
That’s the part I see every day in my coaching practice.
💡 Key Takeaways from the Panel of Recruiters
Even though the market is competitive, a panel of recruiters shared practical, actionable ways to stand out right now:
1️⃣ Use impact statements on your résumé. Don’t list tasks. Show results. Use metrics, data, scope, and outcomes.
2️⃣ Show “proof of life”. Companies want to see your energy. Follow up with a short Loom video or voice note to bring your personality to life.
3️⃣ Do your due diligence. Research the company. Talk to employees. Understand the culture, leadership, and current challenges.
4️⃣ Fill gaps with purpose. Volunteer work, side projects, and even maternity leave can demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and resilience. Articulate your skills in a portable way.
5️⃣ Remember: tech skills = 50%. Soft skills = 50%. Emotional intelligence, communication, and confidence are not “nice-to-haves.” They are differentiators.
This is exactly where my work comes in.
My mission is to bring soft skills to tech through 1 on 1 coaching, group coaching, and workshops that help women rise, lead, and own their value.
✨ Ready to grow your confidence and leadership presence?
There are still a few tickets left for my upcoming workshop:
🎤 Own Your Voice for Authentic Leadership
🗓️ Saturday, November 29 from 12pm to 4:45pm
📍 Downtown Vancouver
Join us for an afternoon of confidence-building, connection, and actionable tools to lead boldly.
➡️ Register here: https://lnkd.in/g_rRCMX8
Lots of love,
-Anna
