A 6-step Guide for Job Seekers

In a world where job descriptions read like a wishlist crafted for a multi-skilled candidate, it's easy to feel discouraged when you don't tick every box. But what if we told you that not meeting all the qualifications could work in your favour? 

The Art of Tailoring your  Resume

When you're applying for a job, and you don't have all the skills or qualifications listed, it's time to tailor your resume — but not in the way you might think. Instead of stretching the truth about your experience, the key is to highlight your strengths, adaptability, and eagerness to learn in a way that aligns with the role you're eyeing.

1 Showcase Your Transferable Skills

Every experience you've had has equipped you with a set of transferable skills. These competencies are invaluable across various jobs, whether it's leadership, communication, problem-solving, or time management. Ensure your resume and cover letter articulate how these skills make you a strong candidate for the position, even if your background isn't a perfect match.

2 Highlight Your Learning Curve

Employers value candidates who are self-motivated learners. If you've taught yourself new software, pursued online courses, or undertaken projects outside your comfort zone, ensure these achievements are front and centre. This demonstrates your ability to close any skills gap on your own initiative.

3 Tailor Your Narrative

Your resume and cover letter should tell a compelling story about why you're the right fit for the job. Instead of focusing on what you lack, emphasise what you bring to the table. Tailor your narrative to the job description, connecting your unique experiences and attributes to the company's needs.

4 The Power of Authenticity

Adam Grant, the renowned organisational psychologist, best-selling author, and Wharton professor, has been recognised as one of the world's 25 most influential management thinkers by Thinkers50 and is a contributing op-ed writer for The New York Times. With four books under his belt, including "Give and Take" and "Originals," Grant has become known for his expertise in leadership, motivation, and organisational culture.

But before becoming a renowned professor and author, Grant had to navigate his own career journey. As a graduate student at the University of Michigan, he applied for a teaching position at Wharton School without having any formal teaching experience. However, he secured the job by showcasing his passion for research and his commitment to learning.

In a recent article, Grant discusses how this strategy can help you achieve a role without being the "ideal candidate". 

He cites the example of a job seeker, Michelle Hansen, who, instead of trying to hide her limitations, led with them:

“I'm probably not the candidate you've been envisioning,” her cover letter began. “I don't have a decade of experience as a Product Manager, nor am I a Certified Financial Planner.”

Hansen got the job. And she isn’t alone. Although many people believe self-promotion is the ticket to landing a coveted job, the evidence shows otherwise. In one study, interviewers gave the highest ratings to business school applicants who were more concerned with being seen accurately than positively. In another, undergraduates who played up their skills and accomplishments were not significantly more likely to get job offers. Executives who tried to impress board members with their qualifications did not land more board seats.

Of course, you can’t get a job if you only focus on your inadequacies. After confessing her lack of relevant experience, Michele Hansen devoted the rest of her cover letter to explaining why she had the motivation and skills to succeed anyway. “I don't wait for people to tell me what to do and go seek for myself what needs to be done,” she wrote. “I'm entrepreneurial, I get things done… I love breaking new ground and starting with a blank slate.”

Michele Hansen's success story underscores the power of authenticity in the job application process. By openly acknowledging her limitations and then pivoting to her strengths and motivation, she captured the employer's attention in a sea of self-promotion.

5 Be Honest, Not Self-Deprecating

There's a fine line between being honest about your limitations and underselling yourself. The trick is to acknowledge any gaps in your experience briefly and then focus on your strengths, motivation, and the unique perspective you bring.

6 Share Your Vision

After addressing any gaps, devote the rest of your application to your vision for the role. Like Michele, talk about your entrepreneurial spirit, proactive approach, and passion for the field. Demonstrate how your unique blend of skills and experiences positions you to contribute meaningfully.

Landing a job when you don't have all the skills isn't just about convincing the employer you're the right fit—it's about believing it yourself. By focusing on your transferable skills, demonstrating your capacity for learning, and presenting yourself authentically, you can turn perceived weaknesses into compelling reasons to hire you.

Remember, the goal isn't to be the candidate they envisioned but to be the candidate they never knew they needed.

As always we invite you to comment, like or share - or all three. 

Sources:

https://adamgrant.substack.com/p/in-a-job-interview-this-is-how-to?utm_source=post-email-

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