Do You Need to Possess Every Qualification Listed on a Job Posting?

It’s common for job seekers to dismiss some positions they see advertised because they don’t meet one or more of the requirements mentioned. The post may be asking for more experience than you have, a degree, or particular skills you’re unsure if you possess. When a job is otherwise perfect for you, it can be hugely disappointing to feel that you shouldn’t apply because you don’t fulfill all the criteria. In these cases, the best thing to do is to stop worrying that you lack some of the qualifications listed on the job posting.

Listed Qualifications Are Often Guidelines

Bear in mind that many qualifications on a job listing are just what an employer would prefer candidates to have. Unless the post explicitly says that these qualities are requirements, the employer may be willing to overlook the fact that you don’t possess some of them. This is particularly likely to be the case if you are a perfect fit in other ways.

Think About Your Transferable Skills

Even though you may not have the specific skills mentioned in the job post, you may be able to make up for it in transferable skills. It’s likely that you’ve gained relevant skills from other jobs you’ve held, your university studies, and any volunteering you’ve done. Transferable skills could come from working on group projects, managing your time to meet deadlines, coming up with solutions to problems, paying attention to detail, or even developing a passion for a greater cause.

Use Your Job Application to Explain Why You’re Right for the Job

You’ll need to convince the employer that you’re right for the job, despite the fact you lack some qualifications. Give plenty of examples of what you could bring to the role and to the company as a whole. Show that what you lack in experience you make up for in motivation.

Do Your Research

Find out as much as you can about the company. Include your findings in your job application and in answers to interview questions. Hiring managers will be impressed by your interest and more likely to consider you. In particular, learn about the company’s mission and values to talk about how you could play a part in meeting goals.

Find a Contact at the Company

You’ll always increase your chances of landing an interview if you know someone at the company. Check for connections on LinkedIn, ask other students, and attend job fairs on campus to see if you can meet an employee. This contact may be able to recommend that the hiring manager at least consider you — which could be enough to move your application to the top of the pile.

If you’re looking for a job while you’re still at university because you want to move into a better apartment, there’s no need to stress. You can find affordable Laurier student housing at Preston House and Bridgeport House. You’ll receive a fully-furnished suite located just steps from university and great onsite amenities, including a pool table, dedicated study spaces, and a fitness centre. Book a tour to see the building of your choice.