Whenever I look at a job description, the first thing I ask myself is, “Do I qualify for this job?” As students, we are very focused on our dream job – which can actually turn into a stumbling block. Below are a few things to consider when skimming through job descriptions.
1. How much experience is required?
As a college student, experience is the largest hurdle you will face. As a recent or upcoming graduate, stay away from positions that ask for three or more years of experience. When the experience required is below three years, then you need to use your judgement. Think critically about the amount of experience you have in the field and whether it comes close to the amount listed for the position.
2. Don’t focus too much on the major.
Some students get caught up in the major or field of study in a job description. For some positions, looking through the job duties will give you as good of a picture of whether you fit the position as the major listed in the position. In some cases, employers don’t fully understand all of the majors that could work for their open position. Most job descriptions list “or related field” next to their list of required majors. As long as you have the skills to back it up, you likely fall under the “related field” category.
3. Have you done the job before?
When looking at the job description, it is important to analyze whether you have previous experience with any of the job duties – either directly or indirectly. If you have already mastered a large portion of the job duties, you are likely qualified. If there are significant duties associated with the job you have not done, then you need to determine if you are able to learn these things quickly or if it will be too difficult. If you think you can learn – go for it! In a down economy, employers tend to gravitate to previous experience rather than potential. Love it or hate it, it’s expensive to hire people with “potential” alone and little to no experience.
4. What is required?
Many job descriptions have “Required” and “Preferred” qualifications sections. If there are significant required qualifications that you do not posses, then you might not qualify for the position. Whenever an employer lists a job duty or candidate attribute as “required”, it is important that you have the skill – or a variation of the skill. These requirements are considered the bare minimum experiences you must possess in order to be considered for the position. In terms of “preferred” qualifications – this area is where an employer lists skills and attributes that would allow a person to excel in the role. It’s almost like an employer “wish-list” – good to have, but not required to do the job. Much of the required/not required skill determination comes from data provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
If you still have doubts about whether you qualify for a position, you can always call the employer. It’s better to ask clarifying questions proactively rather than spending time on applications materials only to find out you do not qualify. Asking questions also shows an employer that you have initiative and attention to detail! Happy job searching!
By Jordan Simonson
CALS Career Services Peer Advisor
