You’ve read hundreds of job postings online and finally found one that feels like the perfect fit. You’re excited about the company and the role… but then you get to the job requirements and realize you’re missing a few qualifications. Now you’re wondering: should you apply for a job even if you don’t meet all the requirements? I can tell you from personal experience that the answer is a resounding “yes.” I recently saw a job opening that looked like the perfect fit for my skills, but I didn’t think I had enough years of relevant experience. I ended up applying anyway because I was excited about the role and company and knew I had the skills they needed, even if I was short a few years of experience. The only way to guarantee you won’t get the job is to not apply. I’m so glad I applied because I got the job! Here’s why I recommend applying even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications and, and how to get hired when you don’t meet all the job requirements.
Why you should apply for a job even if you don’t meet all the requirements:
Understand the job requirements: Think of the qualifications section in a job posting as the hiring manager’s wish list for the “perfect” candidate. Few applicants meet every single requirement. Review the list again and categorize each bullet point as a “must-have” or a “nice-to-have.” If you meet most of the “must-haves” and some “nice-to-haves,” you’re likely a competitive candidate.
Remember the “perfect” candidate doesn’t exist: Remember, even the best candidates rarely meet 100% of the job requirements. Companies are often more interested in finding someone who is enthusiastic, adaptable, and capable of learning on the job. If the role excites you and aligns with your career goals, don’t let minor gaps hold you back.
Be confident about your skills and experience: Be confident about your skills, experience, and willingness to grow. Hiring managers value determination and a strong work ethic.
How to get hired when you don’t meet all the job requirements:
Now that you know that “yes” is the answer to the question, should you apply for a job even if you don’t meet all the requirements, you are ready to apply. Here’s what you need to know and how to get hired when you don’t meet all the requirements.
1. Highlight your transferable skills:
Take a look at your past experiences, including jobs, internships, volunteer work, and side projects. Identify skills and accomplishments that align with the job description, even if they come from a different industry or context. Use your resume and cover letter to draw clear connections between your background and the role you want.
2. Customize your resume and cover letter
Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job application. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes and cover letters based on keywords. Review the job description and include relevant skills, experiences, and terms in your application materials. This strategy increases the chances of your application reaching the recruiter.
3. Use your network:
The best way to make sure your application gets seen by a recruiter is to have someone at the company refer you. If you know someone who works at the company, let them know you applied online and attach your cover letter and resume. Ask if they will pass it along to the hiring manager. If it is someone you worked with in the past, ask if they would put in a good word for you.
Not sure if you have a connection? Use LinkedIn to find employees at the company who share mutual connections or shared experiences. You can click to see who went to your college and send a cold email. Reach out with a personalized message expressing your interest in the role. Many companies offer referral bonuses, so your contact might benefit from helping you as well.
4. Address gaps proactively:
If you keep seeing the same job requirements on job postings, figure out how you can learn them. Take classes. Start a relevant side-project. Pick up freelance work. Read books and industry publications. Gain the skills in your current role by taking on additional job responsibilities.
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