Navigating Job Applications When You Don’t Meet All the Requirements

In today's job market, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by job postings that seem to require a laundry list of qualifications. Asking yourself, "Should I even bother applying?" is very common. However, many employers are open to candidates who do not fill every requirement but bring valuable skills and experiences to the table. A golden rule is applying if you meet approximately 70-80% of the qualifications.

Understanding the requirements

Job descriptions often read like wish lists, filled with skills, experiences, and qualifications that might seem impossible to meet. As a job seeker, it is crucial to know that these criteria are often idealized. Job seekers feel they need to meet every requirement before applying, but this is not the case. Employers typically prioritize certain skills over others.

When you scan a job listing, differentiate between must-have qualifications and nice to have ones. Must-have skills are those you absolutely need to have, while nice to have ones offer room for flexibility. For example, if a job requires proficiency in a specific software program but you have experience in a similar tool, you could still be a great fit. Must-have qualifications are often listed at the top of the "qualifications" section. Prioritize meeting the top 50-70% of the qualifications.

Highlighting Relevant Skills

An effective way to make your resume stand out is by highlighting on your relevant skills and experiences. Tailor your resume to reflect how your background aligns with the job you want.

For example: if a job calls for project management experience, and you have led multiple projects—even in a different field—you need to highlight that. You need to describe the skills utilized during those projects, like budgeting, teamwork, or stakeholder management. You need to include numbers so you can make your achievements more compelling; for example, “Led a team of three to complete a project that resulted in a 25% increase in ROI.”

Emphasizing Transferable Experience

If you are applying for roles that seem out of your reach, you need to highlight your transferable experience. This include skills gained from past jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects that relate to the position you're eyeing.

Say you’re targeting a role in Marketing but have spent years in Sales and Customer support. Highlight how your experience understanding customer concerns can inform your marketing strategies.

Take the Leap

If you find yourself fitting 70-80% of the qualifications listed in a job description, don’t let self-doubt keep you from putting yourself out there. Focus on your relevant skills and transferable experiences, and make an effort to tailor your resume to emphasize your super powers.

Remember, the job market is ever changing, don't let self-doubt get in the way of your next job.