help with a job application - how can I word this...

[admylin]

Dh has seen a job which fits his profile, well almost. From all the skill and technique requirements there is one that he can't do but he wants to apply anyway as it's otherwise his dream job (and mine too as it's in a city I would be happy in.
How can he word it in his application? Or should he just apply without saying anything and hope he gets an interview?

Is it designated as desired or essential in the spec.?

Whatis the skill and what is thwe closest thing he has to it?!

He could say although he has no direct experience of xxxx it is something that he has always wanted to do/work in/learn about/ and hopes his enthusiasm , drive and ability to learn will make that a reality?

If he fits the bill apart from one aspect then it shouldnt be a reason to not interview. A lot depends on the impression made at interview, and whether the employer likes the whole package IYSWIM. I've taken on people who on paper don't entirely match the spec, but it's clear at interview that they'll fit the team.
Can he word it so that after listing his skills'experience, he refers to the aspect where he isnt skilled, and makes it clear that her would welcome the opportunity to advance his skills in this particular aspect? Turn it into a positive - ie he's keen to do the job and get skilled up at this particular part.

I think if it essential then you need to show a related skill as close to the one in the spec as possible - anything else can sound wishy washy and may come across as him not realising the importance of said skill perhaps.

Look for specific words that would be relevant words to the role, these are normally in the applications, taylor these words around dp experiences. Whilst he may not match the advertisation requirements, it will look as though he can provide benefit and value to the company and may just get him an interview.

Say nothing and his application may be overlooked.

Alfiesbabe, thanks that sounds great 'welcome the opportunity to advance his skills in this particular aspect' and that's what I was hoping someone would say about the interview (there is hope..!)

dividedself it's a research job in neuroscience and there is a list of essential skills (quite a long one) and the very last one on the list is a technique that dh can't do (but he can do all the others) so he might still be in for a chance.

Thanks Maidamess - I will get him to add abit about enthusiasm - he has also written that he is a confident and ambitious candidate - does that sound too much?

No, its not too much. All they've got to go on for now is how he sells himself in the application.

He's going to go for it. Fingers crossed AGAIN!