Five ways women can overcome that nerve-wracking job search

Looking for a new job can often be a daunting process, especially for women who face unique challenges along the way. LinkedIn research shows that networking or communicating with a contact is one of the most difficult parts of the job search for 23% of women in India, compared to 19.5% of men.

Even after getting interest, women find the interview process difficult, with a rate of 29% in India, compared to 24% for men. Receiving rejection also affects your confidence, with a rate of 59% for Indian women, compared to 53% for men.

However, the right mindset and a change in strategies can lead you to the most interesting career opportunities. Here are five tips from Nirajita Banerjee, career expert and senior editor at LinkedIn India, designed to improve competitiveness and confidence at every step of the job search process.

1. Make your profile stand outA strong LinkedIn profile creates a strong first impression and could make all the difference. Be sure to note your key strengths, skills (we recommend adding at least 5 to your profile!), and achievements in the Experience section to show recruiters a complete view of what you bring to the table. You can also activate the #OpenToWork feature, which indicates the types of roles you are interested in.
2. Highlight your skillsRecruiters are increasingly actively adopting a skills-based hiring approach, so it's wise to highlight your skills throughout the job search process. Don't be afraid to highlight the knowledge you've acquired and your transferable skills, even if your current job doesn't reflect it.
3. Show your social skillsWomen bring unique social skills that are highly valued. Showcase your soft skills, such as your emotional intelligence, creativity, communication, and interpersonal skills. Team well-being and collaboration are increasingly valued more than ever.
4. Prepare for the interviewInterviews can be difficult, especially if you are returning from a career break or maternity break. Practicing interview techniques can help overcome any barriers you may face. You can use LinkedIn's interview prep feature to practice and get feedback. Making these small efforts can help you look and feel more confident during the interview.
5. Leverage your network and net worthYour network is priceless when it comes to growing your career, as professionals are 4x more likely to be hired through your network. Follow companies to learn more about job opportunities as well as company culture. Seek the opinions, experiences and insights of potential employers so you can align your skills with what they are looking for.