To apply for a job I’m probably not qualified for?

[PinkyU]

We’re in the shit and we need to completely overhaul our current lifestyle. I’m a sahm my OH works, we’re looking to do the opposite.

So, I need to find a job. I’ve seen a job advertised in sector I’ve not worked in before but that I can transfer <some> my skills to (maybe) fulfill their criteria.

This job would enable me to earn £10k more per year than jobs within the sector directly related to my qualification, that would enable us to keep financial equilibrium. The qualification they have listed is noted as “desirable” not essential.

This job requires more tech and admin skills than I currently have, but I can take courses to catch up and can do an OU course to gain the “desirable” qualification. However, I’ll still start the job under experienced and will likely struggle initially.

Should I apply when I’m probably/definitely under qualified and under experienced or will they laugh heartily before shredding my application?

One of the best pieces of advice I got for job hunting was 'think like a man'

I look at Matt Hancock and I bet he didn't think hmmm, I'm not really qualified so I won't apply.

Just go for it!

I once read a really interesting article that said part of the reason (but obviously not all!) that men move up the career ladder faster than women is their approach to applying for jobs.

Women tend to only apply if they feel they need most or all of the criteria.

Men will apply when they only meet some of the criteria, but feel they have transferable skills that cover the rest.

Do it!!

Ah I see someone has posted the link too!

I’ve also read this too. Do it.

One of the smaller reasons there's a gender pay gap is that men will apply for jobs they are very under qualified for but women won't apply unless they tick 90%+ of the boxes.

If you think you can do the job you should apply.

Definitely apply - I do quite a bit of recruitment and even the best candidates don't meet all the criteria.