Don't Limit Yourself Apply Anyways

Addressing Requirements for Job Descriptions

Allyson Hertz
October 06, 2022
Newsletter Article

Here's why you can and should apply to jobs even if you do not meet all the requirements!

Since many companies are currently hiring, you find yourself eager to apply. Only to read the specifications and understand that you don't meet every qualification. Consider applying anyways; do not limit yourself!

I had a chance to sit down with Mary Barefoot, MBA, SPHR, Human Resource Director at AgCareers.com. She gave me an inside look to see if there is hope in applying for jobs where individuals do not meet all of the requirements in the job description. Long story short, there is hope – it is all about how you present yourself.

I know firsthand how intimidating it can be when looking for internships and jobs. The fear of hearing, “Thank you for applying, but we have decided to go in a different direction.” Then the worry starts to set in, and you start to second-guess yourself and your abilities.

A: Should someone apply, even if they do not meet all the requirements?

M: Absolutely, finding employees that meet all the requirements is often difficult and companies resolve to finding the next best fit. Companies provide on-the-job training, development programs and even pay for education and certifications to recruit and fill open positions if they can’t find a perfect fit.

A: What do you personally think of individuals who do not meet all requirements but apply anyways?

M: I may not initially see their potential fit in the role, but it does show aspiration, initiative, and confidence. I may see how they are working to elevate their career beyond their current position within the resume. They do, however, need to be aware of those requirements they lack and be fully prepared to advocate on their behalf accordingly during an interview.

A: What kind of jobs should individuals be looking for after post-secondary education?

M: I think that it is appropriate to apply for roles that are the next level from your current positioning. Maybe those are roles requiring 1 year of experience for most college grads or it might even be appropriate for roles requiring 2 to 5 years of experience if you’ve had sufficient internship or work history experience and education.

One of the first steps with applying for internships or jobs is creating your resume. This is the first introduction of yourself to the company you are applying to. Make sure to take some time to look it over, and even have a friend double check to ensure there are no grammatical errors.

A: What do you look for on a resume?

M: At first glance I am looking for overall good organization, consistent formatting, easy to follow layout, and it must be coherent.

A: What do you consider to be a red flag while looking through resumes?

M: Typos or misspellings, poor grammar, and casual language.

A: What sticks out the most to you on a resume?

M: Is this person trying? Meaning, are they putting their best efforts into their resume, or are they being lackadaisical?

A: What is the most important aspect on a resume?

M: You need to be able to communicate who you are, communication is an essential soft skill and if you can communicate effectively on your resume, then you are likely able to communicate well in the workplace.

In summary, when it comes to a resume...

M: A resume should highlight the well-rounded person you are, where you are involved, and how you spend your time. Highlighting your accomplishments beyond the workplace presents you as multifaceted, conveys you have initiative, are self-motivated, and passionate. These qualities are essential for success in any role.

Following the next steps of the hiring process is the interview sector. No doubt the company hiring has already looked over your resume before continuing with the hire process.

A: Should an individual bring up not meeting all the requirements in the interview?

M: I would advise being well prepared for how you are going to connect your present work history or specific projects and skill sets to those required by the role rather than focusing on the talents that are lacking.

Again, even with all of Mary’s reassurance, there are some requirements that need to be met.

A: Any advice on how to deal with getting denied a job due to lack of experience?

M: Review your resume to ensure it shows progression and development over your career. Highlight the experience you do have.

Even with not meeting every single criterion of a job posting, it is still suggested to apply anyways, and not to limit yourself. Some preferred qualifications act more as guidelines and can be flexible, while others are set in stone. For instance, no national company is going to hire an individual straight out of college to become their next CEO. Ensure you double-check the job description, and even if you are not the perfect fit, apply anyways!

Find your next job to apply to on AgCareers.com!