It happens all too often. You see your dream job advertised on SEEK and you can’t wait to apply. You’ve already started envisioning yourself in the role. But when it comes to the necessary qualifications or experience, you don’t make the grade.
So, should you apply and try your luck at convincing your prospective employer in a cover letter or interview that you would be perfect for the job? Or should you skip applying and wait until you find a role that you are fully qualified for?
The short answer is YES! You should absolutely apply.
The long answer is that you might need to consider reevaluating your career goals and potentially seek more training to get the job you really want. Unfortunately, there’s no point in applying for a role that you have absolutely no experience or training in. This wastes both your time and the time of your prospective employer. But if the role is in the field that you are already qualified in, it is definitely worth applying.
When applying for a role when you don’t have the listed experience in it is important to start with an honest and open cover letter. Make sure to address the fact that you don’t meet the requirements outlined in the job posting. However, follow this with why you think you would be an excellent candidate for the position. This will be your first step towards securing an interview.
If your qualifications don’t match the advertisement, ensure that you have other qualifications that will be beneficial to the role in place of what you’re missing. Rather than focusing on a lack of experience, consider highlighting that you have up-to-date skills.
With the speed that technology is taking over every industry, new roles are often designed that require the latest technological skills. If you just recently completed your qualifications or training, you may have a more current skillset. If you can pinpoint how you have the appropriate skills and training, years of experience may be less important.
If the role is something you feel is within your ability and skill set, the best advice we have is to craft an eye-catching and honest cover letter and apply. Regardless of your qualifications or experience, you may still be right for the job. It can’t hurt to apply, right? After all, the worst they can say is no.
Comment