Should you apply for a job where you do not meet all the criteria?

There are many scenarios where it makes sense to apply for a job where you do not meet all the criteria. It could be that technology creates a new kind of job – something that has not existed ever before.

New jobs, new criteria

There are new jobs getting created – many of which have never existed before. Even a few years back, when commercial drones were just about becoming mainstream, companies were hiring engineers to manage the fleets. None of these engineers may have had prior experience in this field – at least quite a few would have been new to the field. Companies then need to train people they hire.

Silicon Valley startup Koko aims to bring empathy to all voice-assistants like Alexa, Siri etc. This creates a new job, let us call it Empathy Coach. You may not have even been aware that such a job exits, but you may feel that you would enjoy this job. Should you apply for it? Absolutely? The company is often happy to train people who do not meet all the requirement.

According to research, “84 percent of companies are willing to hire and train a candidate who lacks required skills.” If you think you can learn what you do not know, go ahead and apply for it. This is often the case when the company builds on an existing technology. Imagine having to learn a new programming language. This is a great opportunity to expand your skill set. Apply for it. It may open up opportunities you never imagined.

Old job, new skills

Sometimes the job gets a makeover. New responsibilities get added when an incumbent quits. Or if the business scenario has changed. In such cases, the job may need more of the skills you have. Don’t worry if the job description does not state that explicitly. 42 percent of job applicants don't meet skills requirements. A job description is often the starting point. During the interview, the employers may discover a skill you have that could give the job a real edge. That may make you a prime candidate. So don’t pass the opportunity – apply for it.

When I started my career, there was no job that was called Chief Learning Officer. There was a training department to run training programs. When I joined, I worked with my manager to co-create the role. That role in turn continued to evolve as the business evolved.

Some companies I have worked for have an explicit policy of hiring people who are 60% ready. That is when they would prefer having an internal candidate rather than hire someone from another company. You may be that person they need. Make sure the decision makers know about your skills and willingness to learn what it takes.

There are jobs that are the right fit just for you. Some jobs will be tailored to your skills and strengths. Yet another set of jobs may be the ones where the employer is willing to train you and invest in your success. Applying for a job tells people that you are keen to give it a shot. Who knows that may just be the dream job you are waiting for.

Read more: <How to land such a job>