To encourage a friend to apply for a job she isn’t directly qualified for?

[thoughtfulfriend]

I’m generally confident in applying for roles I’m not directly qualified for, as long as I have the transferable skills and interest in the role. This approach has mostly worked out well for my career and confidence.

Recently, I encouraged a friend to apply for a job she’s interested in but doesn’t have direct experience in. I shared that I often apply for jobs without meeting all the criteria and that this strategy has been beneficial for me. I mentioned that I once read a statistic about men applying for roles even if they meet only 60% of the criteria, whereas women often wait until they meet 90%. Since then, I’ve applied for jobs based on interest and transferable skills, rather than waiting for a perfect fit.

My friend said that I’ve been both lucky and that my "delusion disguised as confidence" has helped me. I laughed it off, and said that I’d rather have this "delusion" pushing me forward than let fear hold me back.

I'd love to hear your experiences. Have you applied for jobs you're not directly qualified for? Do you think confidence plays a bigger role than qualifications sometimes? Was I being unreasonable for encouraging her, or should I have been more cautious?

Ive read that statistic before and even if it's not accurate the sentiment behind it is true ime.

However I don't think you can generalize or do extrapolate one person's experience to another as there are too many variables

But nothing ventured nothing gained

That was rude of her. You're right, it never hurts to apply! Worst they can say is no.

I don’t see why people get so worked up about applying for jobs, if you see something you’d like to do just apply, what’s the worst that can happen?

Ive applied for all sorts over the years, sometimes it’s worked out sometimes I’ve not even got an interview but that’s not the end of the world.

Entirely depends on the sector and the job. In our business, we hire for cultural fit (entrepreneurial, flexible, adaptable) as much as for individual skills, so we will definitely look at candidates who don't have everything we'd ideally want.

On the other hand, If I'm hiring an airline pilot, I want too see all of those qualifications!

My friend said that I’ve been both lucky and that my "delusion disguised as confidence" has helped me.

How rude. Does she like you?

I’ve applied for all sorts of jobs, I don’t see why people get so worked up over it. Sometimes I get an interview, sometimes I don’t.

The criteria are usually a wish list for a dream come true candidate anyway.

If you know you can do a job, you can usually parse out which qualifications are essential and which are pie in the sky ones.

So it’s not confidence or qualifications, it is always both.

I would encourage it unless the criteria includes a specific qualification that the applicant has not got and is required for the role. I don’t think the statement “or a willingness to work towards within 12 months” should be thrown in as much as it is as some qualifications are legally required to perform the role. Currently trying to recruit for a position that requires such a qualification and none of the applicants have it - it wastes everyone’s time.

I wouldn’t even short list a candidate with no direct experience. In my industry it would be unfair on thouse who had worked their way up.

I am basically always looking for jobs on the next band up and would start applying once I had 6 months’ expedience in the current band. I do think you have to be a relatively confident person to do this, it’s true that partly it’s luck and you also run the risk that you get into a role and don’t know what you’re doing so again have to be confident that you can pick it up quickly. Not all people have this confidence or might be more nervous about having to fake it until you make it for a short while. I don’t think either approach is right or wrong, people who apply will likely progress more quickly but people who take the scenic route will probably be more experienced. I think your friend was rude with the delusion comment though. Unless you work with the friend then how would she even know how competent you are in your role.

You sound like a great friend OP.

Several years ago I applied for a job I had no experience in. A now former friend of mine as well as a family member scoffed and said I had no experience in it and shouldn’t bother.

Guess what? I got the job! It was one of the best jobs I’ve had and helped me get into the job I have now.

I’m now on the job hunt again and I’m going to be ambitious in what I apply for!

I think it’s about confidence but it’s also about generally coming across well and doing interview prep. I get nervous in interview situations but I take a deep breath and do my best to smile and answer the questions well. And I make sure I’m friendly, upbeat and professional of course.

That was quite unkind of your friend to describe it as “delusion” disguised as confidence” but you’re right - it’s better to have that -whatever you choose to call it, than be held back like she is. I think she sounds envious of your confidence and positive attitude or she just wanted to insult you . Either way, be careful of her!

I appreciate your perspective. Honestly, I found my friend’s comment a bit harsh. However, I feel that applying for roles beyond my exact qualifications has been beneficial for my growth and success. It’s a personal strategy that’s worked for me, and while it may not suit everyone, it has proven valuable in my career. I agree that finding what works best for each individual is crucial and that we shouldn’t let others’ opinions stop us from pursuing opportunities.

Aww thank you for your kind words! I completely agree that confidence and preparation can make a huge difference, even when applying for roles outside of our direct experience. I’m glad to hear that you taking risks and being ambitious paid off for you.

I appreciate your perspective on my friend. I’m realising the same tbh. I’m going to keep focusing on my goals and not let negativity hold me back. Your encouragement is exactly what I needed. Thank you :)

You're talking about me, aren't you?

Look what happened last time I listened you.

Lettuce Liz no, not at all 😬😂

You’re so welcome :)

All the best with continuing to smash your goals and staying positive!