How to Get a Job You're Unqualified For in 10 Smart Ways

How to get a job in today’s competitive employment market? The good news is that new roles are emerging because of automation. Businesses are ramping up their digitization processes to future-proof their workplace. Because of this, candidates are upskilling to gain an edge over other jobseekers. In fact, JobStreet’s Decoding Global Talent report reveals that 77% of Filipino workers are willing to retrain for new jobs.

But these new roles are not just a fad; they are long-term workforce trends. According to JobStreet’s Decoding the Digital Talent Challenge report, global crises such as the pandemic may have drastically changed how most people work. But the jobs of digital workers remained intact. This is because companies are gearing up for digital transformation, and remote work opportunities have increased.

Here are the other factors that contribute to the attractiveness of digital jobs:

• Employers’ huge demand for digitally-skilled talents
• Opportunity for higher pay
• Job security in the face of automation
• Work opportunities in international companies without having to leave the country
• Work-from-home setup

So, how can you land one of these sought-after roles when you’ve never worked in a digitally-driven environment? Though professional experience is typically important to employers, your other strengths can still help you secure a future-ready job.

How to Find A Job With No Experience

Some professions like those in the fields of engineering, medicine, and math have stringent qualifications that require highly specialized knowledge. Moreover, these roles demand skills grounded in relevant education and hands-on experience.

However, there are some digital roles are within reach for those who don’t have a tech background. In fact, these “digital nomad careers” fall under this category:

• Digital content writer
• Digital content producer
• Digital product manager
• Digital marketing manager
• Social media manager
• SEO (search engine optimization) specialist
• Customer service representative
• Digital entrepreneur

Here’s a quick tip: though job ads have an exhaustive list of qualifications, employers often don’t expect candidates to fulfill all their requirements. Additionally, some hirers may give leeway to those who are not fully qualified. Here are ways that can help convince employers to take a chance on you:

1. Make a thorough inventory of your abilities and experience.

Your competence goes beyond the specific duties in your former jobs. Think back and hard on all your past activities, including those when you were still studying. Even volunteer work and passion projects provide you with transferable skills such as leadership and teamwork that may be useful in the job you’re aiming for. The truth is that most of us have a far wider skill set that we give ourselves credit for.

Also read: 7 Effective Leadership Traits That Will Lead You to Success in the Tech Industry

2. Examine the job description.

Even if you’ve never held the job, look at it through the eyes of a potential candidate. Research on what it entails by reading blogs, articles, and career advice tips. You may even reach out to people who have had relevant professional experience. This way, you can get insider tips on what it takes to be effective in the role. Ultimately, this will help you prepare for the job interview.

3. Focus on your abilities that fit the role.

At times, reading a job description can be daunting, especially when it requires industry-specific skills. Still, try to read between the lines. See if you’ve already gained these skills in other circumstances. For instance, a job ad that calls for social media management experience catches your eye. For this, you can highlight the time when you promoted your own small business across platforms. Or maybe your former job was being a public relations writer. The skills you’ve gained from these experiences are still useful in your desired role. Just make sure to effectively communicate these to the hirer.

4. Put effort in your resume.

Crafting a succinct, visually-pleasing resume shows your enthusiasm. Your former roles may not exactly fit the current job requirements, so reframe your previous duties to make them more relevant. Emphasize transferable skills and strengths compatible with the job. Your goal is to let hirers know how eager you are to land the role.

Fresh grad? Click here for our downloadable one-page resume templates.

5. Boost your professional online presence.

In this day and age, employers will almost always turn to the internet to know more about you. It may be a good idea to keep your personal social media channels private, or curate them to boost your professional image. Also, refresh your JobStreet profile, so it highlights the best of your abilities and experience. On the other hand, having no online presence tells employers that you lack technical skills, which are vital in digital roles.

6. See it as an opportunity for growth.

Remember that you’re offering not only your current skills but also your potential. Forward-thinking employers may be open to hiring someone who lacks experience but can bring fresh ideas to the table. Some hirers may even admire your “go-getter” attitude, which shows your passion for challenges and growth. Just make sure to underline your impeccable track record and fast learning curve.

7. Learn new skills.

You may not have been formally trained in school or at work for the job, but you can always learn on your own. In fact, the Decoding the Digital Talent Challenge report says that 75% of respondents prefer self-study to further their skills. Meanwhile, 65% have enrolled in digital academies to beef up their competence. Your initiative shows employers that you’re willing to go the extra mile to be part of their team.

8. Get a powerful endorsement.

Having someone with admirable professional standing speak up for you can do wonders for your application. A glowing review from your previous manager can shift a hirer’s perspective. Better still, secure a referral from someone within the industry or the company you want to be part of.

9. Do positive messaging.

Instead of saying “I can’t…” or “I’ve never done…” during the interview, focus on what you can do. “I’m excited to learn…” and “I’m looking forward to exploring…” send a positive message to employers. They will appreciate both your honesty and tenacity.

10.  Be extra.

If you really want to show your passion, then try completing a project that you can present during the job interview. For example, if you’re targeting to be a content writer for a real estate website, try writing a blog article that fits the company’s business objectives. Present this to the hirer, stating why you’ve chosen the topic, and how it can boost website traffic.

Applying for Jobs You’re Unqualified for

Being underqualified can be a good thing. After all, growth happens when you take risks. Build your confidence and skills, and explore new career avenues. This way, you can reach your full potential, and even surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

Ready to build a fresh career? Then #LetsGetToWork! Make sure to create or update your profile. For more work opportunities, visit JobStreet or download the JobStreet app on Google Play or the App Store. 

Finally, for more tips and news, check out our Career Tools and  Career Resources Hub.