

You can possess all the qualifications for a role, but if you don't mesh well with the organization's culture, then you ultimately won't be successful. What do I know about the company culture? But if you think you could do the job and have most of the requirements, then go for it. If it feels like too much of a stretch, then skip it.

Professionals, especially women, tend to avoid applying for jobs that don't match their years of experience requirement perfectly because they believe they are “not qualified.” Odds are, you're more qualified than you think, especially since not every person is 100 percent qualified for any position. However, don't underestimate your years of experience either. In addition, the organization may assume you'll get bored in the position and jump ship as soon as a better opportunity comes around. If you're over-qualified for the job, you can expect the pay to be less than what you're accustomed to making. The required years of experience indicate the level of responsibility the position holds and the pay range the company is willing to offer. The same goes if you have 10 or more years of relevant experience. If they're looking for someone with 3-5 years of experience and you just graduated with little to no relevant internship experience, this job is not a good fit.

Pay special attention to the number of years that are required for the role. In other words, what are the deal breakers? If an MBA and six years of management experience are required and you don't have these, then the job application is a waste of your time and theirs. Some job postings will include a ridiculously long wish list of qualifications that the company would like the ideal candidate to possess, and your job is to identify which of those qualifications are on the hiring manager's list of must-have requirements. Before you apply to a job, carefully review the job description. Remember, “almost” only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. Do I meet the requirements? Am I over- or under-qualified for the role? While no job is perfect, do you find the majority of the job description to be enticing? Don't apply to a job you know will leave you feeling bored, unmotivated, or just plain frustrated. If you're already established in your career and seeking full-time work, consider if the job plays to your strengths or will help you fill any skill gaps that are holding you back from getting ahead. Even if you're searching for part-time work to help pay the bills, look for opportunities that would allow you to work in your target industry or expose you to a field you want to pursue in the future. When evaluating a position, consider if it will help you build the right skills for your dream job. Each job should be a stepping stone towards your ideal career. Whenever possible, be strategic with the job positions you apply for. What questions should I ask myself before I submit my job application? Does the role fit into my long-term career plans? And job applications? Don't get me started! Before you spend another minute filling out yet another tedious online application, ask yourself the following questions to make sure it's worth your time. Let's face it - the job search can be a frustrating process. Don't apply to another job until you've asked yourself these questions.
