Jobseekers should apply when they do not meet all criteria on the job description

A great job has been advertised, but you don’t meet all the criteria listed in the job description. Should you still apply? Recruiters reveal their thoughts.

CAREERS’ panel of expert recruiters answers a reader’s question each week. Have a question? Email [e-mail]

A good role has been advertised and I don’t think I match 100 per cent of everything asked on the job description. Should I still apply?

Justin Hinora

Executive consultant,

Hender Consulting

Make a phone inquiry first. This is something we encourage of all applicants. Not only does this demonstrate proactivity but it’s a good opportunity to discuss your suitability and motivation beyond an application, understand more about the nature of the vacancy and provide you with more information to better tailor your application to this particular vacancy. You might find out that it is not worth applying for this role, saving both time and emotional effort. On the flip side, you might also learn that the essential criteria may in fact only be desirable.

Hender Consulting executive consultant Justin Hinora. Picture: Mike Burton

Andrew Sullivan

Managing director,

Sullivan Consulting

In this situation, I would call the recruiter or employer to find out more about the role and what they are seeking. Ask about the requirements and try to get some insight into what you would need to be the successful candidate. Hopefully the person you speak with is also assessing applications, in which case speaking to them is an opportunity for you to make a positive impression before you even apply. Sell your skills and experience and see whether they sound interested. If you meet 90 per cent of the job description and think you’d be a good fit, I would definitely apply.

Sullivan Consulting managing director Andrew Sullivan. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

Alexandra Rosser

Head of Organisational Psychology Consulting,

Stillwell Management Consultants

Yes you should, as you may have compelling transferable or other skills or experience that would be of value. In applying, ensure that you specifically address the criteria you do meet so that it is clear the extent to which you do fit the role, highlight other skills you have that could be desirable and, where possible, identify how you are, or could, acquire the outstanding capabilities sought. Be realistic in your assessment of suitability, however, particularly relating to essential criteria as there may be licenses, certificates, qualifications or registrations which you may need to have to practically, safely and/or legally perform the role.

Stillwell Management Consultants organisational psychology consulting head Alexandra Rosser. Picture: Mike Burton

Lisa Morris

Director,

Hays

The answer to this question depends on exactly how much of the criteria you match. If you possess most of the required skills and experience, say between 80 to 90 per cent, then yes you should still apply for the job. However, if there are larger gaps between your current level of competence and that required to be successful in the job, you may want to look for other suitable roles. If you fall into the former category, you’ll need to demonstrate an exemplary level of proficiency in your current skillset. So, clearly quantify your skills by sharing examples of the value you’ve brought to your previous employers. It’s also advisable to demonstrate your constant learning mindset by adding one or two quantifiable examples of how newly acquired knowledge has led to successes at work. For example, if you’ve completed a presentation skills course, mention how many successful presentations you’ve given since and the value of the client contracts you’ve won as a result. This allows the hiring manager to understand that you can quickly upskill and bring your new knowledge to bear in the role.

Hays director Lisa Morris. Picture: AAP/Matt Loxton

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