For example, you might not have the specific accomplishments
or industry experience listed for the job, but you might have the right skills:
Often, it's not an exact match they're looking for-it's the
right skill set. They want an event planner with a couple of hospital
foundation benefits under their belt? Your experience running non-profit
fundraisers in the arts world will actually probably fit the bill quite well.
The trick is proving that the experiences you've had have
given you what it takes to do the job you're applying to. Do this by using
specific examples throughout your resume and cover letter. Focus on the
transferable skills-in this case, managing vendors, building relationships with
donors, and raising money-and how they translate to the responsibilities in the
job description.
Or, if you do have the experience they're looking for, just
not quite enough, you can point to a positive track record that proves you're
ready to take on more. If you've never managed a team of six, but you have
directed multiple three-person projects and received great feedback, make sure
you've included that in your application.
Similarly for specific hard skills (like knowing
Salesforce), your experience with related software (other CRM software) might
suffice, so list them on your resume.
Not enough years of experience? If you have close to that
number of years, the quality of your work experience and achievements may make
up for the difference.
The worse thing that can happen if you apply and aren't a
good fit is not getting an interview or the job. If you don't apply? You
definitely won't. Check out the full article for more in-depth examples.
Have you gotten a job without being an exact match to the
job criteria? Share your success story with us in the comments.
