At Indigenous Employment Australia (IEA), we’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible strength, resilience, and brilliance of women across all industries. From corporate boardrooms to classrooms, community organizations to creative industries—women continue to shape, lead, and uplift our workplaces and communities. Yet, too many still hold themselves back, trapped in a cycle of ‘undering’—a quiet but powerful force that keeps them from fully stepping into their potential.
We see it all too often:
- Underestimating your abilities – Thinking you’re “not ready” for that next step.
- Undervaluing your contributions – Believing your work is just part of the job, not worthy of recognition.
- Understating your expertise – Dismissing success as “just luck” instead of owning your skills.
- Underplaying your impact – Avoiding credit for the change and progress you create.
This mindset isn’t just about confidence—it’s about deep-seated social conditioning that tells women to stay humble, be grateful, and not ask for too much. But here’s the truth: you are already enough, exactly as you are. Your contributions matter. Your work is valuable. And it’s time to claim the success you deserve.
A Strategic Plan to Stop ‘Undering’ Yourself
Changing the narrative isn’t about overnight transformation—it’s about small, intentional steps that build confidence, reinforce your value, and create new opportunities. Here’s how you can start owning your worth and shaping your career on your terms.
1. Identify and Challenge Your Own ‘Undering’ Habits
Self-doubt often operates in the background, influencing the words you use, the opportunities you pursue, and how you show up in professional spaces. Start by noticing how you talk about yourself:
- Do you preface ideas with “This might be silly, but…”?
- Do you downplay your achievements with “It wasn’t a big deal”?
- Do you hesitate before applying for roles, thinking you’re not qualified enough?
Recognizing these patterns is the first step. The next? Rewrite the narrative. Replace self-doubt with fact-based confidence. Instead of “I was lucky to get that opportunity,” try “I worked hard, developed my skills, and earned that opportunity.”
2. Build a Career Portfolio That Reflects Your Value
A career portfolio isn’t just for creatives—it’s a strategic tool for professionals in every field. Instead of waiting for validation from others, start tracking your own success:
- Keep a ‘wins journal’—every time you achieve something meaningful, write it down.
- Save emails and feedback that acknowledge your contributions.
- Quantify your impact: How did your work improve a process? Increase engagement? Drive results?
- Regularly update your resume and LinkedIn to reflect your skills, projects, and growth.
This portfolio becomes proof of your capabilities—not just for future employers, but as a reminder to yourself of what you bring to the table.
3. Develop a Visibility Strategy—Because Talent Alone Isn’t Enough
Many women believe that hard work alone will get them noticed. But in reality, visibility is just as important as competence. If you’re doing great work but no one knows about it, you’re missing out on opportunities.
- Own your expertise publicly – Speak up in meetings, share insights on LinkedIn, present at industry events.
- Create a network of champions – Connect with mentors, allies, and sponsors who will advocate for you.
- Ask for what you deserve – Negotiate salaries, promotions, and leadership roles with confidence. Your contributions warrant recognition.
Being seen and heard isn’t about arrogance—it’s about ensuring that your work and impact don’t go unnoticed.
4. Reframe Fear as a Sign You’re Growing
Feeling nervous about a new opportunity? That’s a good sign. Growth happens in discomfort. Instead of avoiding fear, reframe it as proof that you’re expanding your potential.
- Apply for the job even if you don’t tick every box.
- Say yes to leadership opportunities, even if you feel unsure.
- Step into spaces where your voice and perspective are needed—because they are.
5. Build a Circle That Elevates You
The people around you influence how you see yourself. Surround yourself with those who uplift, encourage, and challenge you to dream bigger.
- Seek out mentors and sponsors who have walked the path before you.
- Engage with networks that support women’s career growth.
- Limit time with those who reinforce self-doubt.
Growth happens in community. Find yours.
It’s Time to Own Your Power
Your voice, skills, and contributions deserve to be recognized—not just by others, but by you. Stepping into your worth isn’t about arrogance; it’s about honoring your potential and paving the way for others to do the same.
We’re committed to supporting women in the workplace, fostering confidence, and breaking down barriers to success. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, career advice, or job opportunities, we’re here to help.
Your career is yours to shape—so own it.
