Can You Get a Job You Are Not Qualified to Get?

Can I Get a Job I am Not Qualified to Get?




This is a question people often ask themselves or others when looking for new employment. As people browse the job boards and search through advertisements the job descriptions can be scary. A certain level of experience needed. Specific software knowledge. And so on.

Most candidates glaze over several opportunities out of a feeling of unqualified.

But then some ask...Can I Get a Job I am Not Qualified to Get? Well first, look around your current office. Come on, I'm sure you've asked yourself how THAT person got their job.


Here's what I think the situation boils down to assuming you're seeking a business position that does not require special schooling or training (i.e. doctor, lawyer, rocket scientist).

1. When a hiring manager sets out to recruit a new hire, he or she creates a job description that includes a set of qualifications. This is usually an IDEAL set. The hiring manager knows from the get-go that the candidate that receives the offer isn't likely to have those exact qualifications and is willing to look at the aggregate picture. Then, invest some time, energy and money into training for the right person.
2. Review the skill set, experience and qualifications you DO have. If you have certainty that those skills and qualifications could immediately, or in a very short amount of time, translate into the new role you have a decent chance. Might as well throw your hat in the ring.
3. Now you have to create a case through your resume and interviews. In the end, bosses want results. If you have delivered results before and shown growth in the past you'll be a candidate the boss will most likely want to interview.
4. Give concrete, real life examples that connect directly back to the position at hand. Even if you've been a school teacher for 30 years you can demonstrate your leadership & communication skills and command of a "team" if you're now seeking a management role.
5. Demonstrate that you have drive and heart! A strong resume is great. In the end, most hiring managers will excuse some level of qualification deficiency in exchange for someone s/he believes will be committed and passionate about the position and the company
6. If you get the job...deliver...FAST! Even if you first select the low hanging fruit you'll show your new boss that you get results quick and are worth keeping around a little longer.

And once you land that great job here are a few posts from TheRossNetwork to review:

Focus is Power

Will I Get Ahead?

Take Initiative!

20 Tips on Getting Ahead in Your Career