I want to apply for a job but...

[lucysmam]

I don't have the single qualification listed as essential.

I do meet the person spec otherwise though & have relevant experience.

I don't know whether to bother or not. The last 'proper' job I applied for was where I work now - they interviewed me knowing I had no degree or other qualifications & then their feedback was that I needed a qualification and experience (totally different position to my current one).

I've downloaded the form for it...just not sure whether to take the time filling it in without the qualification

What have you got to lose? Fill it in, and include a cover letter talking about your experience in more detail.

A lot of job applications go through an automated system that filters out those who don’t meet the criteria. What’s the role?

You might be better going through a recruitment agency who can help you before you even get to the application stage

The worst they can say is no. I've applied for a job this morning and I'm missing some experience points but I see it as you have the chance to gain that experience in role. Good luck.

Apply anyway; as long as it’s not something specific like occupational health or accountancy! Make sure your cover letter details the work experience that you have that makes up for not having the specific qualifications.

I think a lot of companies will just chuck on “needs a degree” for example without really stopping to think about what they actually want from that role; and whether someone can meet the knowledge and skills requirements in other ways.

I know I certainly have learnt more through my years of work experience than my 3 years of drinking most days and occasionally turning up to lectures...

I'd go for it. We've been recruiting recently and we've had less applicants than usual and I know other places that are struggling to fill positions.

Also, in the last interviews we did, we recruited the least 'qualified', most experienced candidate.

You don't get 100% of jobs you don't apply for. Good luck!