Apply to a Job, Even If You Don’t Meet All Criteria (2024)

Summary.

Would you apply to a job if you didn’t meet all criteria? Research shows that while men and women share similarities in how they browse and look for jobs, women are 16% less likely to apply to a job after viewing it, and also apply to 20% fewer jobs than men. The reason? Women hold back if they don’t meet 100% of the criteria while men usually apply after meeting about 60%.

• For early career professionals, this presents a big challenge, as most entry-level jobs still “require” a year or two of previous work experience. If you’re just out of school or still new to the workforce, don’t let this, or other “requirements” limit you. Give yourself a chance and apply anyway — because you just might land the job.
• Do your research. You may not fit every criteria a company claims to be looking for, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t the right fit for the role. You may have experience outside of their “requirements” that can make you a great candidate.
• Don’t skip a cover letter. While cover letters aren’t mandatory, do send one. Resumes are backward looking — they tell the recruiter what you have done in the past and what skills you acquired. Cover letters are forward looking — they focus on what you want to do, why you are interested in the job and why you believe you’re a good fit.
• Prepare. Rely on the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to tell a clear story about how your past experiences have prepared you for this new job. Also make sure to brush up on your knowledge around the more technical skills outlined in the job requirements.