Debunking Myths 101: You must meet all employment requirements to apply for a job

Job seekers Skip many listings in job portals because the requirements mentioned do not match yours ratings or experience to the letter. Even those who are at the beginning of their professional career avoid these types of advertisements because they believe that they must meet all the requirements mentioned in them to apply for the job.

This means that suitable candidates often miss out on opportunities that could have provided them with a tremendously successful career. However, employers also value those who show potential for growth. That’s why sometimes people who show promise are selected rather than someone who perfectly meets the listed criteria.

It is therefore important to dispel the myth that a person applying for a job must have all the qualifications and experience mentioned in the job description. But why do job seekers feel that they must meet all the requirements listed in the job description?

According to Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit, many job seekers interpret job postings as rigid checklists rather than a wish list of ideal qualifications. They don’t realise that employers are often willing to consider candidates who meet most criteria, but not all. He cites imposter syndrome, fear of rejection and self-doubt as factors that heavily influence decisions in these cases. This results in candidates only applying for positions where they feel they are the perfect fit.

Gender socialization also contributes to this notion. Garisa explains that studies have shown that men are more likely to apply for a job even if they only meet some of the qualifications, while women are more likely to apply only if they meet almost all of them, as they are often encouraged to be more cautious and perfectionistic.

So how flexible are employers when it comes to hiring?
Employers often look for a combination of qualifications, experience and soft skills. skills In her view, employers focus on core competencies, relevant experience, and cultural fit, but are also willing to consider those who don’t meet all the requirements if they bring strong transferable skills, show a willingness to learn, and align with the company’s long-term goals. This approach allows employers to build diverse and capable teams, even in competitive labor markets. “A candidate who has demonstrated adaptability throughout their career may be considered for a position even if they lack certain technical skills, with the expectation that they can pick up these skills on the job,” she explains.

Industries that are flexible

The level of flexibility In meeting Job Requirements According to Garisa, flexibility varies greatly across industries and roles. Sectors such as technology, creative industries and start-ups tend to be more flexible and focus on skills and potential.

As the tech industry is known for its emphasis on skills and practical experience over formal qualifications, many employers prioritise a candidate’s ability to code, troubleshoot or adapt to new technologies over meeting all of the listed requirements. Positions such as software developers, data scientists and IT support specialists often have more flexibility, especially if the candidate can demonstrate relevant skills through a portfolio or project work.

Similarly, roles in marketing, graphic design and content creation often allow for greater flexibility, particularly if the candidate can demonstrate creative skills, she adds.

How to demonstrate the potential to overcome qualification gaps?
To overcome qualification gaps, Garisa says candidates should focus on presenting a complete picture of their potential. They can do this by ensuring their job profile highlights their skills, experiences and the positions they are applying for, by showcasing relevant projects, volunteer work or side jobs that demonstrate their capabilities.

Additionally, highlighting transferable skills and a strong willingness to learn can help effectively position a candidate as a valuable hire in most situations, she adds.