When you’re job searching and come across your dream job at a company you want to work for that you might not be totally qualified for, what should you do? Do you apply anyway? Most of us have or will experience this at some point in our lives when looking for a job. Before you put your dream job on the back burner, make sure to reflect on the following points.
How underqualified are you?
When reading through the job description, do you meet most of the qualifications and experience required? If you have 80% of the job requirements listed in the posting, chances are you are qualified enough to apply to the position. If you don’t, that doesn’t mean you should give up just yet.
Can you quickly acquire more of the necessary skills?
If there are some required skills you don’t yet have, are you capable of developing them on the job or on your own time? For example, if a position calls for some knowledge of a program, are you able to learn about the program independently?
Are you motivated enough to bridge the gap?
Chances are you’ll have to put in extra effort to make up for what you lack in work experience to be successful in the position. Ask yourself if you’re willing to put the time and energy into being the best person for this job, even if it means you’re going to be the last one to leave the office some nights.
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