Throw your hat into the ring

To throw your hat into the ring is to apply for a position, or take part in an election; the idea is to say that you would like to compete with others to obtain a title, post, or job. For instance, sometimes a new job in a company is advertised externally and also internally, and this gives employees a chance to throw their hats into the ring.




A few examples:

You: What do you think about the new sales director opening? Do you think I should throw my hat into the ring?

Your boss: Absolutely! I think it would be a great move for you at this point.

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After a lot of consideration, Rebecca decided not to throw her hat into the ring for Mayor; she felt that it would impact her personal life too much.

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Me: Are you glad you threw your hat into the ring for sales director?

You: Well, I'm not sure yet! The process is more complicated than I expected... But I hope the outcome will be great.

Me: Whatever happens, I'm proud of you!

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As you can observe, we usually put for to connect the action with the post or position.