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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

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Original poster

...Too apply for this job, that I don't have the exact qualifications for...

29 replies

BunletMum · 28/12/2014 00:38

Ok, this may be my dream job, but they are asking for 2 grade B A-levels. I don't have any A-levels, however I do have a very good module pass from the open university in the specified field. Would this be enough? It's an apprenticeship position so I guess my previous experiences show I can study and work at the same time...
Does anyone think I stand the smallest of chances? I haven't worked in the area before but it would be an absolute dream

OP posts:

IHeartKingThistle · 28/12/2014 00:39

So you have GCSEs, then the OU module?

I would apply I think. Could you phone them first to check?

Backtobedlam · 28/12/2014 00:39

There's no harm in applying-best case you get the job, worst case you don't but at least you know you tried. Otherwise you'll be wondering what if, for evermore. Go for it!

Original poster

BunletMum · 28/12/2014 00:59

how on earth can I explain the gaps in my employment history? one big one one for getting pregnant and raising a family and the last 6 months after fleeing my abusive ex I did manage to complete my module in the midst of that and am exceptionally proud of myself.

It's been years since I've had to be positive about myself I just don't know where to begin.... how to get my passion about getting a start in this area over on paper

OP posts:

DontWorrryBaldrickHasACunningP · 28/12/2014 02:13

Go for it! What have you got to loose?

In regard to the gaps in your employment history the first is easy you took time off to have a baby it really doesn't need any further explanation.

The second I personally would go with something along the lines of you wanted to retrain, given you actually completed the OU modules at this time as well it backs up the claim.

Good luck

DontWorrryBaldrickHasACunningP · 28/12/2014 02:17

Oh and talking about retraining is a good segway into how passionate and committed you are to the field.

toffeeboffin · 28/12/2014 02:23

Go for it. Make sure you write a kick-ass cover letter though, something clever and intriguing.

toffeeboffin · 28/12/2014 02:25

How to explain gaps in employment? Lie. Everybody else does!

araiba · 28/12/2014 02:44

YANBU but I wouldn't fancy your chances. Job market is tough and they will be more likely to look at those that meet the minimum requirements they have stated- and lots of people will be able to do that.

If the job is in some sort of specialist field, will many of the jobs you want, need these A-levels? if so, look at doing them at a local college to give yourself chance in the future

WhereYouLeftIt · 28/12/2014 03:01

"they are asking for 2 grade B A-levels. I don't have any A-levels, however I do have a very good module pass from the open university in the specified field."
Are they specific A-levels that they want, or just any A-levels? If they're not subject-specific, then they likely want them as evidence that you're capable of study. I would point out to them that your OU module amply demonstrates this quality.

Italiangreyhound · 28/12/2014 03:07

Apply, there is no harm in trying.

Good luck.

Sparks1007 · 28/12/2014 03:12

Please apply. I assume you're a woman... All evidence points to the fact that men take more chances applying for jobs they are "under qualified for" and that this is what explains the male-female em ploy mentioned gap. More of us need to take more chances. I think you're in with a shot. Please go for it. Nothing to lose and good practice applying for jobs.

ilovesooty · 28/12/2014 06:29

Apply but please don't lie about the gaps in your history. "Everyone else" doesn't.

UsedToBeAPaxmanFan · 28/12/2014 06:51

please do apply, but don't lie in your application. It's rubbish to say that "everyone does".

The point made by the pp about men applying for jobs where they don't meet the person spec is absolutely true. You need to think about all the ways in which you do meet the requirements even if you don't have what is specifically asked for, and which skills of yours are transferable.

Your chances will vary depending on where abouts in the country you live. I live in an area of "full employment" and it's very difficult for us to recruit any staff, so we look at people who don't necessarily have previous experience, or who perhaps don't always meet all the person spec.

Good luck!

MinesAPintOfTea · 28/12/2014 06:55

Don't mention the gaps in your CV but be prepared to breezily mention family commitments and study when they come up in interview.

OneInEight · 28/12/2014 07:04

Yes, apply - an OU module should be more advanced than "A" levels so should substitute well. It also shows a lot of desirable soft skills like ability to work independently, self-motivation etc (half of my group usually gives up somewhere along the course!). If there is something you don't want to advertise on your C.V. then omit it - we agonized for ages how to word in a positive manner dh giving up a degree in an unrelated subject to the job he was applying for - but were advised in the end by a recruitment agency just not to say he had even attempted it.

tobysmum77 · 28/12/2014 07:42

yes absolutely, 2 A levels means some study at L3 OU is higher than that. Don't listen to the doubters by the sound of it you are adequately qualified.

And good luck.

tobysmum77 · 28/12/2014 07:45

and rather than stressing about 'Gaps in your cv' what have you learnt in that tune, what skills has being a mother required you to develop? What are you good at?

LightastheBreeze · 28/12/2014 08:26

An agency filled in the gap on my CV with 'Raising family' which is what it was, no-one has ever questioned it as that is what it was.

I have applied for jobs which want A levels of which I haven't any and I have still had interviews/got the job but if someone aged 18-20 applied without A levels then they probably wouldn't, as they would have no other experience and the qualifications would be very relevant .

fredfredgeorgejnr · 28/12/2014 09:51

Of course you should apply! Just go for it.

LIZS · 28/12/2014 09:55

As long as you have the equivalent of 2 level 3s with you OU module go ahead. Don't lie though, gaps are very common and will become apparent if you lie.

EnlightenedOwl · 28/12/2014 09:59

Never be tempted to lie. It will bite you on the arse. You don't need to go into detail you had a career break to raise a family - perfectly acceptable I would think. The other reason you have a gap is your business - family circumstances would cover it. Put in for the job or you will forever wonder what if.

ThePinkOcelot · 28/12/2014 10:02

Apply!! The gaps in your employment can be explained by your having been a homemaker. You are a woman and that is not unusual. Good luck!!

Anydrinkwilldo · 28/12/2014 10:07

If you don't reach for the moon you'll never get there. Apply what's the worst that could happen

AngieBolen · 28/12/2014 10:20

Definitely apply! The worst that can happen is they discard your application. The best that can happen is you get the job....which you won't if you don't apply!

Tobyjugg · 28/12/2014 10:22

How do you know you don't have the qualifications? That's for the interviewers to say. They've stuck the bit about 2 A-levels in to weed out the total no-hopers, that's all. Having an OU module lifts you out of that category. Go for it. Say you were a SAHM while you did it and that's the end of any questions re your employment gaps (specially if it's a male interviewer - he won't want to go there believe me).

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