It stands to reason that you should apply to jobs that you’re qualified for. And that’s true. But it’s important that you don’t shut yourself off from every job opening that you think you may be underqualified for, either. The truth is that it can be a great idea to go ahead and apply to a job even when you think you’re underqualified. Here’s why:
#1: If you never try, you’ll never know.
Plenty of people apply to jobs they’re not totally qualified for and end up getting an interview and, ultimately, landing the job. You can do that, too. Think of the requirements on a job listing as close guidelines, not strict rules—most companies are willing to bend a little when it comes to the precise job requirements if they find that you’re the best candidate for the job.
#2: Jobs are about more than skills alone.
Remember that jobs are about more than the skills themselves. Your attitude, your personality, and your soft skills (things like communication skills, multitasking ability, leadership qualities, etc.) all play a role, too. It’s just as important that you’re a good culture fit within an organization as it is that you have the necessary skills. A lot of companies will be willing to forgo a few skills listed on the job application if you’re a great fit within the company culture.
#3: No one is 100% qualified.
Keep in mind that very few candidates, if any, are 100% qualified for the role. We all have areas where we fall short, skills we don’t possess, knowledge we don’t yet have. And that’s okay. Remember that most people applying to that position you’re considering probably aren’t totally qualified, either. You have just as good of a chance as anyone else if you put time and effort into the application and show the employer why you would be worth it.
#4: Your backup job could reject you.
If you avoid ever applying for the job you feel underqualified for and rely instead on a backup job, you might wind up disappointed. If the backup job rejects you, what are you left with? There’s no point in playing it safe. You may as well lay all your cards on the table and apply to any job you’re interested in, regardless of whether or not you meet every qualification. What’s the worst that can happen?
#5: You can always learn new skills.
Just because you don’t have certain skills now doesn’t mean you can’t learn them. If you don’t know a certain skill listed on the job application, be upfront about it, but make it clear that you’re a quick study and would love to learn the skill if at all possible. Many companies will appreciate your honesty and transparency.
Ready to start applying? Our professional recruiters can help you in your job search. Contact the staffing experts at Axiom Staffing Group today.
