It’s difficult to meet every single requirement listed on a job description. Oftentimes, candidates will be well qualified for a great position but lack one or two of the listed requirements. The good news is companies will still consider a strong candidate even if they do not meet all expectations. However, there are always the core requirements, and sometimes, a job description may seem ideal except for one necessary skill. Should you still apply if you are lacking a key requirement?
- Focus on your strengths. Play up the relevant skills you do have to show you are highly qualified. Include these skills at the very top of your resume so the hiring manager will see them before anything else. Also emphasize these skills in your cover letter, and consider adding a table to outline the core requirements and the ways in which you meet or exceed each one.
- Be a work in progress. Add to the bottom of your resume that you are actively acquiring abilities in whatever skill you are lacking. This will help your resume make it through the keyword search, but you also need to talk the talk. Learn as much as you possibly can about the skill before the interview so you’ll be prepared to answer questions pertaining to it.
- Anticipate. Be ready to answer questions about both the skills you already have and the ones you’re acquiring. Prepare to relay your strengths, relevant skills, and past accomplishments as they relate to the new position. Also, if this is truly the kind of position you desire, expect that similar job openings are available or will become available soon. Make yourself searchable by including these skills in your LinkedIn profile and any other professional networking site you frequent.
Lacking one or two requirements for a job position is no reason to not apply. Many times, simply learning as much as you can about a needed skill and showing the initiative to learn it on your own time is all you’ll need to convince a hiring company that you are the best candidate. If you are looking for additional resources on preparing for your job interview, contact Staffers today!