Hacking A Job Search When You Don’t Feel Qualified
Studies show that about 8.5 million Americans are looking for work. That figure suggests that plenty of competition exists for anyone looking for a dream job. Feeling disheartened is easy when you consider that 40 percent of the nation’s unemployed have reportedly given up the job search. However, you should continue to persevere in your efforts, even if you don’t feel you’re qualified for that dream role. Use the following four tips to jumpstart your job search.
Play Up Your Transferable Skills
Many employers are willing to overlook formal qualifications if candidates demonstrate that they have the skills that employers are seeking. Think carefully about the skills that may be valuable for the jobs that interest you, and consider whether you have transferable skills. For example, if a job requires leadership skills, you might emphasize your experience serving as captain of your college basketball team.
You’ve acquired transferable skills in school through hobbies, as part of classes, and for paid and unpaid work. Recognize these skills and give them prominence in your résumé and cover letters to make sure prospective employers notice them, too. A chronological-functional resume, which puts your skills and achievements ahead of your job history, may suit you.
Use Job Search Apps
While the world is becoming more mobile, many job seekers are reluctant to use their smartphones and tablets in their employment search. According to an Indeed study, small screens and difficulties customizing résumés to different jobs are barriers for many people, but some compelling reasons exist for using apps in your job search.
Making your job search mobile maximizes your search time. Using a modern phone connected to a fast network, such as an LG G5 smartphone on T-Mobile’s super-fast network, will make sure the internet is available to you when you want to search for jobs.
Job search apps are designed with mobile users in mind, and they’re much easier to use on smartphones than you might think. For example, Switch is Tinder for jobs; its clever interface lets you apply for any job with the swipe of your finger. If the hiring manager is interested, you could hear back from someone in hours, much quicker than you would through a website application. This quick feedback is a great way to stay motivated during your job search.
Volunteer in Your Chosen Field
Volunteering is an excellent way to gain valuable experience and make contacts in your desired field. Volunteering will also make you more attractive to potential employers. According to a 10-year study from the Corporation for National and Community Service, job seekers who have volunteer experience have a 27 percent better chance of finding work than those who don’t. Indeed, volunteering demonstrates a commitment to working and passion for the industry that goes beyond financial gain.
Approach organizations you’d like to work for and ask whether you can help out. When you’re volunteering, make sure you take opportunities to learn new skills and meet new people. Try to be as valuable to the business as any paid employee. At best, your volunteer role may lead to a paid position. Even if it doesn’t, you’re likely to get a good referral that will aid you in your job search.
Remember That Job Ads Are Often Employer Wish Lists
When a prospective employer writes a job ad, that employer is essentially describing the ideal candidate. Most do not expect candidates to tick every box, much like you’ve never expected people you date to have every quality you’d look for in a partner. Remembering this point should give you confidence, especially if you land an interview.
Feeling unqualified is a great way to sabotage yourself. Rather than worrying about the qualifications you don’t have, remember the skills and traits that you do. Show you’re strong in the areas where you meet the criteria, and a hiring manager may overlook your deficits.
Don’t let your qualifications, or lack of them, hold you back from achieving your career potential. Put these hacks described here into practice so that you can make your contributions to the workforce.
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