Getting the Job When You're Underqualified

When you're changing careers, getting your foot in the door can often be the most difficult part. Even though you may have tons of experience in your industry, which could carry over to the new career, odds are good that you don't meet every requirement on the employer's list.

So, how can you get a job when you're underqualified?

First, it's important to know that when an employer advertises a job opening, most of their list of requirements is a wish list. They are qualifications that the employer would like to find, but they aren't set in stone. Even if you don't meet all of them, you can still apply for the job.

In order to land a job you aren't completely qualified for, you have to consider what your qualifications are. Do you meet at least 80 percent of their advertised requirements? If you were the hiring manager, why would you hire someone with your skills? The answer to these questions will help you determine how to market yourself.

To learn the "rest of the procedures" to follow, click here.

4 Cover Letter Tips to Supplement Your Resume

While the bulk of candidates I speak with are looking for guidance with their resumes, some folks are looking for other ideas on how to effectively market themselves.  If you have been successful at crafting the perfect resume (or invested in having the perfect resume crafted for you), you may want to consider fine tuning another document that many employers ask for in your application - the cover letter.  Here are 4 simple tips to consider as you craft your cover letter:

1. Unlike a resume, your cover letter should be personalized...
2. Make sure to tailor your letter to the specific job posting using examples...
3. Create excitement about your interest in the position and clearly state why...
4. Finally, close out your letter with a desire to speak further in person or over the phone...

For more information, click here.

How & Where to Post Your Resume Online

When you are out of work or looking for a better job, posting your resume online can help you cover your foundation.  When you post your resume on the web you are advertising "I'm available for work" on job databases to thousands of recruiters and employers searching for just the right person. Prior to posting your resume prepare a simple version that is easily transferable to a variety of formats.  There are number of considerations when attempting to advertise yourself on the Internet.  Here's a quick summary of essential "how to" topics to consider.

1. Ways to post your resume
2. Where to post?
3. Jobs by location
4. Resume services
5. Keep Track! 
6. Confidentiality

For more info about these essential "how to" things to consider, click here.

Job Searching at 50: stress your experience

As an older worker, it’s easy to go off recalling the “old days” and how things have – or haven’t — changed.  In searching for an IT job at 50, however, it’s important to stay focused on the employer’s present and future needs – and how the company will benefit from your experience.
That doesn’t mean leaving dates off your resume to appear less old, according to Shelley Radinsky of T & S Recruiting near Philadelphia.  She relates:  “I think you should be proud of every bit of experience you have and “If you go in there confident, that will come across.”

Here are important concepts to incorporate in your job hunting profile.

1. Focus on Your Value
2. Find the Right Fit
3. Staying Current

For more specific strategies to incorporate in your job hunting techniques regardless of your field of endeavor, click here.