NWR: Apply for a job I'm not necessarily qualified for?

TiDa2009

I've been looking for another job for awhile now and one has just opened up at the local college.I'm qualified training/skill wise as I have the post-secondary certificate they're looking for (from this same college, actually), but they're also looking for someone with seven years of related experience, which I don't have (more like 2-3).Would you submit your resume for this job if in my shoes?  I figure the worst that can happen is they don't call me (which has happened 3 times in the last 2 months anyway) and I don't get the job.  Will applying for this job that I'm not qualified for make them think less of any future applications?I'd hate to miss out on any opportunity, but I don't want to hinder any future ones either.TIA!

danieliza1127

Does is say the required experience is "preferred" or "required"?  I'd probably still go ahead and put in for it.  It can't hurt.

SarieP

I would still apply.  Maybe see if there are ways you can beef up your resume to look more attractive in other ways that might make them bend on the experience requirement.

LesPaul

I'd go ahead and apply.  I don't think anyone would hold it against you if you were applying a little ambitiously.  Maybe you'll get it . . . .

[Deleted User]

I would go ahead and apply.  Colleges especially like to pass on resumes to other departments as well.  My friend just landed a job at our university (she graduated from there too) after applying for several jobs.  The one she got was a surprise because someone had passed her resume on.

laurenclaire1386

Go for it.  When the worst thing that can happen is someone telling you "no" then you should do it.  I wouldn't think that the employer would think any less of you for not having the experience they're looking for.  I can't see any harm at all in at least applying.

Moneypenny424

I agree, I would definitely apply.  In fact, I've done that several times.  Sure, I still don't have a job, but I've gotten a couple callbacks from them!  Sometimes if someone has the right skill set and is a go-getter, that can be enough for them.  Also, sometimes it is just an HR person with no real idea how much experience is needed.

ring_pop

If you feel up to the job, definitely apply. The worst that could happen is that they dismiss your application as not meeting the minimum requirements. They won't think any less of you because they probably won't even remember you once they put your resume aside. If you're lucky, they may decide to pass on your resume somewhere else.

TiDa2009

Dani - it says "The successful candidate will have a one-year post-secondary certificate in Secretarial/Office Administration and a minimum of seven years related experience."

TiDa2009

As long as you address the experience "issue" in your cover letterShould I bring their attention to my lack of experience and explain why I think I'd be a good candidate regardless?  Or just outline my strengths?Ring_pop - I never thought of them passing the resume on.  That's a good point.  And you're probably right about them not remembering me if I were to apply for another position in the future.Thanks everyone!

buttaflai

Apply.This year alone, I have been chosen for several positions when the other candidates had more 'years of experience'. I showed them why even though I have fewer years working, I have more effective/actual experience with X, Y, and Z.

squirrly

I'd apply.  But, word your cover letter to make the most of the experience you do have.

Marina007

I ditto the pps.  Apply, but don't be disappointed if you don't get it - I did this myself, and ended up with a call a few months later for a different position.  Many places will simply keep your resume on file.

danieliza1127

In that case, I would definitely apply.  Personally, I wouldn't say anything about the less than 7 years experience in your cover letter because they may read that and then toss the whole thing aside without even looking at your resume.  I would just write your cover letter really playing up the certificate, skills, and training you have that qualify you for the position.I don't think it would hinder any future opportunities either.  It will get them familiar with you and your name and so if this job isn't right for you, maybe they'll remember you next time for something that is.

Hello Sunshine

Don't talk about skills/experience you DON'T have, but focus on how the experience you DO have, and what you've accomplished.  "In my three year tenure at _______ , I have successfully _________ and ________ ".  I am confident that my training and experience, combined with an energetic approach to continuous learning, make me the ideal candidate for this position."Something like that. 

TiDa2009

Thanks Dani. I'll work on my cover letter tonight and apply for this job.  Who knows right?  I think I'd be a great fit for it. Thanks or the advice everyone!

sudslover

I've served on many hiring committees at our local college.  Please apply, and make sure your resume is taylored to the job posting.  That is key.  We don'treally look at the cover letter, but just cross of the requirements as they are met by the resume.  We give points to each item presented in the job posting, and those applicants that present the highest rating go on to the next level.  I've ranked over 150 resumes for open positions which is no easy job.The key point I want to get across is to even get to the evaluation level, be sure to provide exactly what is required (i.e. transcripts, complete application, etc).  Then make sure your resume is taylored exactly to the job posting.  Have someone (friend, family, FI) compare the job description to your resume with critical eyes.Each job opening is handled individually, and I can't imagine your chances for a future position would be hindered by this application.I really wish you all the best!

J&K10910

Definitely mention the experience you DO have.  When I'm not quite qualified for a job, I like to put something about "bringing a fresh perspective" in the cover letter.  Of course, make sure you have something to mention about why your perspective is fresh if they ask ;)Good luck!

wadingmoose

Well, darn.  I was hoping this would say "Applyiing for a job in Edmonton."

sudslover

One more thing.All resumes lis previous  jobs and dates of employment.  But, under the Knowledge and Skills area in your resume, list your skills as they correspond to the requirements of the job description.  When time served is not met but the candidate has many/most/all of the required skills, we look at the specific skills we need.  If you have worked collaboratively, add that.

TiDa2009

Thanks for all the advice, suds. Haha, Moose.  I personally wouldn't mind living in Edmonton again, but I don't think I could get Farmer FI to go for it. : )

ac_in_dc

Maybe you can pitch some of your earlier experience as related, so that it can (somewhat) count towards the seven years. If you can do this without stretching the trusth or looking deceptive, that would be good.As in "My 3 years in xxx prepared me for this job through yyy. Additionally my previous job as an AAA gave me BBB and CCC skills which would be invaluable for this position"

TiDa2009

That's a great suggestion AC - thanks!