Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Let’s talk about it.
After I left what I thought was my dream job, I didn’t have a perfect plan. I ended up applying to more than 50 jobs—not out of desperation, but to see what would stick. I wasn’t fully qualified for most of them, including the one I ended up getting.
But I’m so glad I didn’t let that stop me.
Now, as someone who interviews and hires candidates regularly, I get a behind-the-scenes look at how hiring decisions are actually made. And here's what most people don’t realize:
The "perfect fit" almost never exists. Our applicant tracking system shows how well a resume matches the job description. The strongest applicants usually match about 60 to 80 percent. What really sets them apart is their attitude, curiosity, and willingness to grow.
So if you're asking yourself whether to apply for a job when you don't meet every qualification, the answer is yes. Especially if you're fresh out of college, here’s how to show up with clarity and confidence.
Most companies write job descriptions based on their ideal candidate. But that doesn’t mean they expect every applicant to meet all the criteria. Often, they are just hoping to find someone who is eager to learn and ready to grow.
If you meet around 60 percent of the qualifications, go ahead and apply. Focus on what you bring to the table, not on what you’re missing.
You might not have full-time experience yet. That’s okay. The mindset you bring into the job search matters just as much as your resume.
Think about your experience in internships, campus organizations, volunteer work, or class projects.
Those stories show you are capable, adaptable, and ready for real-world challenges.
Instead of focusing on what you lack, lead with what you’ve built so far.
Say something like, “I strengthened my communication and organization skills through my internship at [Company Name], and I’m confident I can apply them in this role.” This shows you're ready to take initiative, even if you haven’t done the job before.
Employers are looking for people who are coachable, motivated, and open to feedback. Those qualities are just as important as technical skills.
A lot of first jobs come through relationships, not job boards. Reach out to alumni, former professors, or people you’ve interned with. Ask for a quick call or some advice.
Even a short conversation can open a door or lead to an opportunity. If you’re applying cold, follow up your application with a brief message to the hiring manager that shows interest and initiative.
Remember, recent stats show it takes 100-200 or more applications to receive one job offer. Obviously, not every application will turn into a job offer, but every experience makes you stronger. Each interview helps you get clearer about what you want and more confident in how you tell your story.
If you don’t get a job, that’s not failure—it’s feedback. Use it to refine your approach.
If you meet at least 60 percent of the qualifications and the role excites you, apply. Hiring managers know that no one shows up fully formed. They are looking for potential, not perfection.
You bring more value than you think. Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back from opportunities you’re ready to grow into.
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