One common dilemma that job seekers encounter is determining if they should apply to a job if they don't meet all of the employer's listed qualifications. If you find a job that you are interested in but you do not match all of the requirements that have been defined on the job, what should you do?
Analyze Before Applying
Give yourself an honest estimate of how close you are to the employer's ideal applicant. Most hiring managers will look at all the job seeker has to offer. The full job requirements are put into place to find the ideal job seeker, which most of the time may not exist. If you feel you meet at least 50% of the requirements and have the right education, work history and skills these can make up for the requirement shortcomings. It can't hurt to apply, no skin off your back right?
Do Not Apologize
Do not send a cover letter that apologizes for your shortcomings. Send a cover letter that gives examples of how your education, work history and skills are relevant to the position.
Serial Applying
Applying for a job may seem like a pretty easy, low energy effort. However, you can become negatively flagged in the employer's system if you apply to jobs in which you are not even close to being a fit. I hear many employers complaining about these "serial applicants". Do not become flagged as a serial applicant because it will be in the employer's system indefinitely. This is not something you want on your record because it may impact you on future job applications at this employer.
Best Wishes,
Doug Smith
Director of Product Management, Talent Exchange
The Taleo Talent Exchange is a candidate talent community from around the world connected through the Taleo talent network. Millions of candidates can easily share their Universal Profiles (UP) with prospective employers. Thousands of employers can invite millions of candidates to join Talent Exchange and can publish and promote millions of new jobs posted on Taleo.
