Feeling underqualified? Here’s why you should still apply for that job!

Have you heard the statistics that while men apply for jobs with just 60% of the qualifications, women often wait until they meet 100%? You might think this is about confidence, but there's more to the story.

Tara Sophia Mohr’s research in the Harvard Business Review reveals that many job seekers, both men and women, hesitate because they wrongly believe that meeting all qualifications in job ads is essential for consideration. This misunderstanding keeps talented individuals from even applying.

To unravel this issue and offer practical advice, we spoke with Laura Grikinyt? ?? , Lead Tech Recruiter at Surfshark. Laura shared insightful reasons for applying to jobs even if you don’t check every box.

The myth of the perfect candidate

When a company opens a new role, its job ad often describes the “perfect” candidate. “Time constraints and the rarity of perfect candidates lead companies to become more flexible with qualifications. The job market requires adaptability,” Laura explains.

"We often value other skills that candidates bring. Sometimes, a candidate, though not meeting all listed qualifications, has other beneficial skills. Occasionally, these candidates might fit better in another open role or one planned for the near future. Additionally, establishing a connection now can lead to future opportunities when the right role comes along. Hiring decisions frequently focus on potential and overall fit, not just a checklist."

Overcoming the Fear of Failure

As Mohr’s research reveals, another huge barrier to applying is a fear of failure. Here, Laura advises, “Try not to take the rejection personally. It’s about finding the right match for the role at a given time. And if you really like the company, reapply. It can be fruitful as company needs and your qualifications evolve.”?

Certifications and cover letters

Historically, certifications and degrees were crucial for breaking into professional life. Laura acknowledges their importance but notes a shift in focus: "Most of the time, degrees and certifications are a bonus, not necessarily a mandatory requirement. Companies base their decisions on an overall profile of the candidate — knowledge, experience, soft skills, and work principles."

Cover letters, although less common nowadays, can still play a role in explaining your motivation. "Cover letters or additional notes on your CV can show your interest and motivation, especially if you don’t meet many qualifications. They can also highlight your efforts if you’re changing specializations or looking to relocate," suggests our Lead Tech Recruiter.

Encouraging diversity in applications

The statistic that men apply with 60% of qualifications while women aim for 100% highlights a critical issue: initial candidate pools often lack diversity. Laura emphasizes, "Building a truly diverse team is essential for innovation and growth, and we need to address this imbalance head-on."

At Surfshark, we balance our recruitment efforts by dedicating specific periods to headhunting diverse candidates — first focusing on women, then on men, or vice versa. "This approach helps us ensure a balanced and diverse pool for every position," Laura explains. Additionally, using inclusive language in job ads and clearly showcasing our commitment to diversity attracts a broader range of applicants and fosters a more inclusive workplace.

Ready for a new career?

Applying for jobs even when you don’t meet every requirement can be a game-changer for your career. Companies value potential and the unique skills you bring to the table. So why wait? Dive in and apply — you might be the perfect fit they didn’t know they needed. Explore our opportunities at Surfshark: https://link.surfshark.com/3yseO4T .