Don't Let Unrealistic Requirements Dissuade Your From Applying
It seems like every job posting out there today, for even the lowliest of entry level positions, comes with a laundry list of requirements, where one or two rightly exclude your from applying.
Whether it is a required number of years of experience or a college degree, chances are you have looked at a job posting and opted to simply close it out in frustration because you don't meet the long list of qualifications.
Don't shoot yourself in the foot. If you come across a job that you feel you will be perfect for, apply for it, even if you don't meet every requirement listed.
The truth is, most of the requirements are simply desires of the hiring manager and not a must to be considered for employment. Obviously, there will be some jobs, even entry level that require experience or degrees, such as in the medical field, counselling services, accounting, etc...however; jobs in customer service, sales, and other true entry level positions have extensive training programs and will train the right candidates for the job.
So, why do so many jobs even have these unrealistic requirements for such entry-level positions? The simple answer is to prevent you from applying. If applicants read the desired qualifications and opt out of the application process, it is less resumes/applications that the hiring manager/HR/recruiter has to field.
Ideally, if after reading a job description you feel that you can satisfy 80% of the desired skills/qualification, go ahead and apply for that job! You will never get an interview for positions to which you never apply, and that is seriously cutting your chances of finding employment drastically.
When I was unemployed, I was looking for jobs as a software implementation specialist or an IT Business Analyst. I came across a job posting for a position that matched my abilities, but they said that it required 5 years in the leasing and rents industry...of which I had zero. I shrugged and applied regardless of the fact that I lacked the desired experience.
I got an interview which led to a job. The experience in leasing and rents never came up in the process, and I sold them on my ability to do the job based on my experience in implementation and analysis.
The takeaway from all of this...if you feel like you can do the job and benefit the employer, then apply. Again, don't apply for positions for which you are wholly unqualified, but if you can tick off 80% of the requirements, don't necessarily allow experience and education requirements dissuade you from applying for entry level positions.
You are so right, I have seen that many times. I was discouraged at first, but then rolled the dice and got some interviews. Stay encouraged.
I think it depends if they state it is a qualification, not preferred but a qualification and are very specific about what they want. This is where many people who do apply end up hearing nothing ever. Because they did not meet the needed qualifications. However, my background is with the financial end so that has a bearing of why I think this way. But agree with a number of types of jobs, with experience not specific to a certain field companies will take.
They just trying to get to know you better and see what kind of people you are so they can know your strong and weak error
I remember attending this one math conference when I was in college once. The presenters talked about applying math to finance jobs. Of course, it was easier to apply back then. This was before online applications became more common. But like I said before, you just have to try and apply sometimes.
Absolutely excellent advice! I've been guilty of doing just that myself. I'm an HVAC technician with lots of different trade skills. A few years ago a lady at the Workforce Commission helped me with my resume. She really beefed it up, and cut it to two pages.That resume has brought killer job offers my way. They don't stop. Now I did not lie on my resume and make myself out someone or not . Everything on my resume I am skilled at. Some better than others, but that doesn't matter. I have that experience. And if I don't, I'm confident I can learn it with some proper training. But I definitely qualify for at least 80% of their requirements. I have made the mistake of turning down six-figure jobs in the past because I thought they were out of my league. And, because I've never made that kind of money in my life! So what! Sometimes I sell myself short on 30+ years of experience. But today; I would take a shot on a high paying supervisor poistion because I'm confident that's It's something I could do we. Worst case scenario; even if I don't make the grade with that particular employer. Guess what I now have? Supervisor experience! Guess what I'm adding to my resume?
That is quite an experience, Mr. Harrington. Sometimes, you just have to try and apply and see what happens.
Nydia, are they still hiring? Do you have any contact info if so? Thanks!
Just got hired with a company I'll never thought would hire me I did as u said and just went for it. It is a at home work too so yeah thanks alot
True fact
My question to you regarding applying for a job that is different from your previous work experience but still you can do is this. DO YOU CREATE a new resume to shape it towards that new position you want to apply for. I have been looking in my field of graphic design but not many getting anything. It’s a competitive market. I am willing to do other things like i.e., but how do I gear my graphic design resume to other job markets when I haven’t worked in that new field?