Is there a rule of thumb about applying for a job where you aren’t fully qualified for that position?

Question

I just graduated with a BSEE. All the jobs I have found want someone with 3 years experience. They also want someone to know technically specific things that I don't know. I know I can learn most of these things but I feel like I am unqualified. Any recommendations or rules about when to ignore their requirements.

Answer 1

Above all, be honest. Apply for any job that you think you have a shot at and emphasize the qualifications that you do have. Research work and lab work done during your education can qualify as "experience" in some cases, but don't call it "work experience" if it isn't. Sometimes even if you don't get the job you apply for, you may be able to get a phone interview with the hiring manager. You can use the opportunity to discuss your future interest in working there and they may be able to point you in the right direction for a temp job or internship that will get you the experience you need.

Answer 2

Apply anyway.
Rules are meant to be broken.
Guidelines will bend. You'll see.
They may not be able to consider you for the current position, but may have something else come up that they'd feel you are more suited for. Some supervisors would rather you learn specifics from them, that way they don't have to break your routine to get you into their company groove.
If they are having difficulty finding someone who is as technically savvy as they require, they'll consider you. Also, if they are unable to pay for someone who is as tecnically savvy as they need them to be, they'll consider you. A lot can be said for on the job experience, but most importantly, you get it on the job.
If you get the interview, read up on what they want you to know, and then convince them that you have a firm base of knowlege, and you'll be able to learn specifics quickly.
BE HONEST. If you lie, you'll get busted.
Ignore the requirements, only where you think you could reasonably attain the knowledge or experience you need through the job in say, three months. As in, if it says you need a Masters, then don't apply for that. As in, if you are unfamiliar with the electrical wiring assembly for a nuclear reactor, and they want 5 years experience, don't apply for that.

Answer 3

The most important rule of thumb in applying for any job is: Don't lie.

It's never happened to me, but it can shoot you down quick. Almost all employers will feel that if you lie once you will lie again. To lie on a job application is usually a firing offense. Even if you get the job, you will always have that hanging over your head, wondering if they will discover it and fire you.

Answer 4

I put it like this, Everybody regardless of education has been in a situation where they were like, man I don't have a clue what is going on here, and if I can just slide through this with out being asked anything I will be alright.

Imagine hoping this everyday at work until you are up to speed.

Answer 5

Be up front with where the holes are and also be confident in your ability to gain the experience in a short time (after all, your used to studying)
Also, if you did any co-oping during your schooling, this will count towards experience.
It only costs you a little time to be able to present yourself as a viable candidate, and the worst they can to is say no thanks, so take a shot.

Answer 6

The general rule of thumb when you are applying for any job that you aren't fully qualified for (or sometimes even remotely qualified for) is this:

Don't be disappointed if you do not get the job!

Answer 7

See if it is an entry level position. They maybe willing to train someone up if the candidate shows potentials. Anything with 2 years or less you can apply.

Answer 8

they will be able to determine your knowledge and qualifications during interview. so long as you don't lie to direct questions, go for it.