How can I deal with an interview if I lack a required skill for the position?

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I applied for a position and was invited to an interview.

The position does appeal to me. However, after reading the ad again in detail, I see they expect the person to have a different profile than mine.

I didn't lie in my CV and I included quite detailed information on my previous positions as well as projects in it. I assume they did read my CV, so it's not clear to me why they invited me. It's a very competitive field and many candidates fulfill the conditions.

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

I tried to acquire the missing skills quickly but that's not really possible and I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing just for this one interview given the probability they'll not want a person without this experience.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")? Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad? What are other options? Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

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It's not an entry-level position. I fulfill the requirements concerning the length of experience, just not expertise in one of 3 fields, but have other experience not mentioned in the ad.

interviewing

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edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

asked yesterday

385703

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  Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
  – Kozaky
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
  – gnat
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  @Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
  – 385703
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
  – uom-pgregorio
  18 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
41
down vote

favorite

4

I applied for a position and was invited to an interview.

The position does appeal to me. However, after reading the ad again in detail, I see they expect the person to have a different profile than mine.

I didn't lie in my CV and I included quite detailed information on my previous positions as well as projects in it. I assume they did read my CV, so it's not clear to me why they invited me. It's a very competitive field and many candidates fulfill the conditions.

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

I tried to acquire the missing skills quickly but that's not really possible and I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing just for this one interview given the probability they'll not want a person without this experience.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")? Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad? What are other options? Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

---

It's not an entry-level position. I fulfill the requirements concerning the length of experience, just not expertise in one of 3 fields, but have other experience not mentioned in the ad.

interviewing

share|improve this question

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

• 
  
  
  

  
  18
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
  – Kozaky
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  4
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
  – gnat
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  @Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
  – 385703
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
  – uom-pgregorio
  18 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
41
down vote

favorite

4

up vote
41
down vote

favorite

4

4

I applied for a position and was invited to an interview.

The position does appeal to me. However, after reading the ad again in detail, I see they expect the person to have a different profile than mine.

I didn't lie in my CV and I included quite detailed information on my previous positions as well as projects in it. I assume they did read my CV, so it's not clear to me why they invited me. It's a very competitive field and many candidates fulfill the conditions.

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

I tried to acquire the missing skills quickly but that's not really possible and I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing just for this one interview given the probability they'll not want a person without this experience.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")? Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad? What are other options? Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

---

It's not an entry-level position. I fulfill the requirements concerning the length of experience, just not expertise in one of 3 fields, but have other experience not mentioned in the ad.

interviewing

share|improve this question

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

I applied for a position and was invited to an interview.

The position does appeal to me. However, after reading the ad again in detail, I see they expect the person to have a different profile than mine.

I didn't lie in my CV and I included quite detailed information on my previous positions as well as projects in it. I assume they did read my CV, so it's not clear to me why they invited me. It's a very competitive field and many candidates fulfill the conditions.

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

I tried to acquire the missing skills quickly but that's not really possible and I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing just for this one interview given the probability they'll not want a person without this experience.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")? Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad? What are other options? Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

---

It's not an entry-level position. I fulfill the requirements concerning the length of experience, just not expertise in one of 3 fields, but have other experience not mentioned in the ad.

interviewing

interviewing

share|improve this question

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

share|improve this question

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

share|improve this question

share|improve this question

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

edited 3 mins ago

Haris

1032

1032

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

asked yesterday

385703

3,8093629

3,8093629

• 
  
  
  

  
  18
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
  – Kozaky
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  4
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
  – gnat
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
  – 385703
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
  – uom-pgregorio
  18 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  18
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
  – Kozaky
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  4
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
  – gnat
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
  – 385703
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
  – uom-pgregorio
  18 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

18

18

Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
– Kozaky
yesterday

Is it possible they are just casting a wide net and may consider different positions for people with different skill sets? Not all companies have one specific role in mind when they post a job vacancy. Is there a way of finding this out? (Recruitment agent, someone you know in the company, etc.)
– Kozaky
yesterday

4

4

Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
– gnat
yesterday

Possible duplicate of How to interview for a job I do not feel qualified for
– gnat
yesterday

@Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
– 385703
yesterday

@Kozaky, there's no way for me to find out before the interview. I'm a bit uneasy because I wouldn't like the company to put me on their blacklist if I can't answer questions concerning the 3rd area and make an idiot of myself. It's a big company and it's possible that they will have other interesting positions soon.
– 385703
yesterday

1

1

Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
– uom-pgregorio
18 hours ago

Is the third area a requirement or a "nice-to-have" - (some companies label it as an asset)?
– uom-pgregorio
18 hours ago

add a comment | 

8 Answers
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up vote
82
down vote

Many companies can facilitate learning on the job. If you have the capacity to learn, you don't necessarily need to have the skill from the get-go. This could be one reason why they invited you to an interview, despite your CV clearly showing you don't have the requested skill(s). Job advertisement skills lists are very rarely make-or-break requirements. They might be looking for people that can grow into the position.

So, do attend the interview and see how it goes. You are not cheating anyone, if you don't lie about anything :)

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edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

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  What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


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  What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
  – Elysian Fields♦
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  The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
  – computercarguy
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  A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  

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up vote
34
down vote

First, it's an excellent opportunity to train your interview skills. Opportunities are scarce for that, so enjoy, and learn. Even seasoned veterans can improve in that domain.

Second, it's a common occurence that no candidate fits all checkboxes. As soon as you need a profile with many specifics, it's more than likely that they'll choose a candidate with holes. In my current position, "functional knowledge of the healthcare industry" was a mandatory requirement, and I had none of it. I did learn. They like my contribution.

Third, a candidate who fits less checkboxes, but shows more potential, may be a better choice in the long run. As other said, do not lie about it. If they understand you are ready to improve, progress, and learn in the domain you don't master, you'll increase your chances of getting the job.

I'd go for not speaking about it unless asked, and jump on "I'd love to improve in that" once asked. I had once an interview where one of the needs disappeared between the time they printed the ad, and the interview. Speaking about it was actually a mistake.

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answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

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  This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
  – Tom
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  In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
  – Mark
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  @Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
  – teego1967
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  The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
  – Hennes
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  Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
  – Tom
  19 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

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up vote
7
down vote

If you have been chosen for an interview and don't know a particular field don't lie.. they are going to know about it anyway if you get the job. Always be honest at your interview!

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answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

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  Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
  – delinear
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  +1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
  – mathreadler
  18 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  

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up vote
2
down vote

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working
on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

Finding a perfect fit is hard, so many companies are OK with new hires learning required skills at the job. Having 2/3 seems reasonable to me.

At the interview be honest that you never worked with item 3, and you would have to learn it. Meanwhile you can explore about item 3 and see if it is something you are interested in learning.

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answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

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up vote
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down vote

What are other options?

My first guess would be that either they honestly overlooked it and need the things you don't have; or they noticed the omission, but are still interested in you - maybe for a slightly different position, or for learning on the job.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

Be as natural as you can be. View it as an occasion for networking, or to make a small foray into an unknown area. Don't view it as an interview as such; or rather an interview of your general character or approach to learning.

I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing

A short period of study to get a basic overview is of course important, but do not try to get some superficial know-how by studying for a week or more leading up to the interview. They will most certainly catch up to that, and if you try to pass it off as more than "I've googled it", you'll pretty much be disqualified for seeming slightly dishonest.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad?

"Assertive" and "stress" sounds quite laborious. Of course you should let them know, and maybe make sure that what's already in your CV is repeated during the talk. Some managers may not study the CV in-depth before the meeting and may have forgotten about this missing item. But I would not make a huge issue of it.

Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

Be yourself and hope that they see something that they like. Obviously, try to find out more about the job during the meeting, and if you see anything in the area you are already experienced in, make sure they know what you have to offer.

If, near the end of the interview (or the part where you talked about your experiences), you are not quite convinced that the issue has come up sufficiently, you may ask a last question, something like "by the way, you list A, B and C as prerequisites - I bring C, but you should be aware that A and B are not really my expertise". And see how they react.

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edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

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  I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
  – DaveG
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


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  @DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
  – AnoE
  22 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

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up vote
1
down vote

In my experience, I've been burned by employers failing to read my full resume during a transition between specialties and it's been a negative experience for both sides. Since then, I've found it extremely important to manage both my own expectations as well as my potential employers and its made my life considerably easier.

Given that this is a non-entry level, skilled position the most critical thing is that you do not misrepresent yourself. During your interview, do not shy away from the lack of experience on the matter.

Demonstrate your attention to detail by indicating that you are able to perform elements 1 and 2 of the job description, but will be expecting your manager to assist with element 3. Come prepared with potential options for how that can be done either in the form of requesting a mentor to help you learn the skill, potential training classes you can take, or a third option. I do not recommend offering to learn the skill on your own time (i.e. you pay for your own training, unless that's a commonplace thing in your field).

I'd recommend bringing this up at the point of the interview when the interviewer asks if you've any questions for them (i.e. not right from the outset). If the employer seems put off by this, you may not want to accept an offer if one is made. On the other hand, if the employer is enthusiastic and indicates they're fine with training you for what you don't know, just make sure it's in writing and you should be good to go.

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answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

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  That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
  – Draco18s
  14 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


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  @Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
  – Pyrotechnical
  49 mins ago
  

  
  
  
  

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up vote
1
down vote

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

You don't need to "sell" anything. An interview means that they are interested and so are you. The interview is there to see if you are a good fit for each other.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they
expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not
mentioned in the ad?

You should be inquisitive as to what the plan is in terms of training you in the fields where you lack expertise/experience.
What is the timeline for completing my training? What kinds of training seminars will I be doing? are both valid questions to ask.

Bottom line is that although you want the job, you want to make sure that you manage expectations by being real about what you can accomplish in the job. Remember that doing a good job after getting hired is the real goal.

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answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

add a comment | 

up vote
-1
down vote

Call the person who chose you and get clarification: "I've re-read your ad and noticed [X]. I'm a quick learner but I don't actually have [X]. Is that a dealbreaker?"

If it's not (and very often it isn't) they'll be impressed at your willingness to clarify and communicate.

If it is, you wouldn't have got the job anyway. No point wasting your time and theirs.

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edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

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MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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  it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
  – NKCampbell
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


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  @NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
  – Armfoot
  16 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


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  Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
  – Jamie Clinton
  13 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

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8 Answers
8

active

oldest

votes

8 Answers
8

active

oldest

votes

active

oldest

votes

active

oldest

votes

up vote
82
down vote

Many companies can facilitate learning on the job. If you have the capacity to learn, you don't necessarily need to have the skill from the get-go. This could be one reason why they invited you to an interview, despite your CV clearly showing you don't have the requested skill(s). Job advertisement skills lists are very rarely make-or-break requirements. They might be looking for people that can grow into the position.

So, do attend the interview and see how it goes. You are not cheating anyone, if you don't lie about anything :)

share|improve this answer

edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

• 
  
  
  

  
  22
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  9
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
  – Elysian Fields♦
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
  – computercarguy
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
82
down vote

Many companies can facilitate learning on the job. If you have the capacity to learn, you don't necessarily need to have the skill from the get-go. This could be one reason why they invited you to an interview, despite your CV clearly showing you don't have the requested skill(s). Job advertisement skills lists are very rarely make-or-break requirements. They might be looking for people that can grow into the position.

So, do attend the interview and see how it goes. You are not cheating anyone, if you don't lie about anything :)

share|improve this answer

edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

• 
  
  
  

  
  22
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  9
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
  – Elysian Fields♦
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
  – computercarguy
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
82
down vote

up vote
82
down vote

Many companies can facilitate learning on the job. If you have the capacity to learn, you don't necessarily need to have the skill from the get-go. This could be one reason why they invited you to an interview, despite your CV clearly showing you don't have the requested skill(s). Job advertisement skills lists are very rarely make-or-break requirements. They might be looking for people that can grow into the position.

So, do attend the interview and see how it goes. You are not cheating anyone, if you don't lie about anything :)

share|improve this answer

edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

Many companies can facilitate learning on the job. If you have the capacity to learn, you don't necessarily need to have the skill from the get-go. This could be one reason why they invited you to an interview, despite your CV clearly showing you don't have the requested skill(s). Job advertisement skills lists are very rarely make-or-break requirements. They might be looking for people that can grow into the position.

So, do attend the interview and see how it goes. You are not cheating anyone, if you don't lie about anything :)

share|improve this answer

edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

edited 26 mins ago

edited 26 mins ago

edited 26 mins ago

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

answered yesterday

Juha Untinen

1,9061121

1,9061121

• 
  
  
  

  
  22
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  9
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
  – Elysian Fields♦
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
  – computercarguy
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  22
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  9
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
  – Elysian Fields♦
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
  – computercarguy
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
  – Alexander Aeons Torn
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  

22

22

What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
– Alexander Aeons Torn
yesterday

What I always do is being really open and straigh forward about my skillset and skill level, just pointing out if I have 0 experience in some area/technology but also showing my willingness to learn everything required in order to master the position i'm applying to. That usually is really effective.
– Alexander Aeons Torn
yesterday

9

9

What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
– Elysian Fields♦
yesterday

What @AlexanderAeonsTorn is a good point, too. Keep in mind many candidates (most?) will not be honest and transparent about these things. Having someone say, "I don't know this at all but am excited to learn" is a lot better than "I'm good at this!" and then... when asked, obviously they aren't good at it and have nearly no experience with whatever they just said.
– Elysian Fields♦
yesterday

2

2

The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
– computercarguy
yesterday

The advice I've heard many times is to apply to jobs if you have at least 50-75% of the skills (percentage depends on source). If you aren't learning on the job, then you are probably bored as well as over qualified. Some employers know this and others simply look for the lowest pay, and both types of business will be looking for someone who will not fit the job description 100%.
– computercarguy
yesterday

A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
– Alexander Aeons Torn
yesterday

A lot of times you see people bragging about their skill and knowledge and you're left with an unconfortable silence when you ask them some technical questions about those skills they were bragging about. It's better to admit ignorance but will to learn than brag about skills you don't posses and get caugh. Stay humble, from my personal experience it paid off always. :)
– Alexander Aeons Torn
yesterday

add a comment | 

up vote
34
down vote

First, it's an excellent opportunity to train your interview skills. Opportunities are scarce for that, so enjoy, and learn. Even seasoned veterans can improve in that domain.

Second, it's a common occurence that no candidate fits all checkboxes. As soon as you need a profile with many specifics, it's more than likely that they'll choose a candidate with holes. In my current position, "functional knowledge of the healthcare industry" was a mandatory requirement, and I had none of it. I did learn. They like my contribution.

Third, a candidate who fits less checkboxes, but shows more potential, may be a better choice in the long run. As other said, do not lie about it. If they understand you are ready to improve, progress, and learn in the domain you don't master, you'll increase your chances of getting the job.

I'd go for not speaking about it unless asked, and jump on "I'd love to improve in that" once asked. I had once an interview where one of the needs disappeared between the time they printed the ad, and the interview. Speaking about it was actually a mistake.

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

• 
  
  
  

  
  17
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
  – Tom
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  7
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
  – Mark
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
  – teego1967
  22 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
  – Hennes
  20 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
  – Tom
  19 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

 | 
show 3 more comments

up vote
34
down vote

First, it's an excellent opportunity to train your interview skills. Opportunities are scarce for that, so enjoy, and learn. Even seasoned veterans can improve in that domain.

Second, it's a common occurence that no candidate fits all checkboxes. As soon as you need a profile with many specifics, it's more than likely that they'll choose a candidate with holes. In my current position, "functional knowledge of the healthcare industry" was a mandatory requirement, and I had none of it. I did learn. They like my contribution.

Third, a candidate who fits less checkboxes, but shows more potential, may be a better choice in the long run. As other said, do not lie about it. If they understand you are ready to improve, progress, and learn in the domain you don't master, you'll increase your chances of getting the job.

I'd go for not speaking about it unless asked, and jump on "I'd love to improve in that" once asked. I had once an interview where one of the needs disappeared between the time they printed the ad, and the interview. Speaking about it was actually a mistake.

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

• 
  
  
  

  
  17
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
  – Tom
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  7
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
  – Mark
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
  – teego1967
  22 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
  – Hennes
  20 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
  – Tom
  19 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

 | 
show 3 more comments

up vote
34
down vote

up vote
34
down vote

First, it's an excellent opportunity to train your interview skills. Opportunities are scarce for that, so enjoy, and learn. Even seasoned veterans can improve in that domain.

Second, it's a common occurence that no candidate fits all checkboxes. As soon as you need a profile with many specifics, it's more than likely that they'll choose a candidate with holes. In my current position, "functional knowledge of the healthcare industry" was a mandatory requirement, and I had none of it. I did learn. They like my contribution.

Third, a candidate who fits less checkboxes, but shows more potential, may be a better choice in the long run. As other said, do not lie about it. If they understand you are ready to improve, progress, and learn in the domain you don't master, you'll increase your chances of getting the job.

I'd go for not speaking about it unless asked, and jump on "I'd love to improve in that" once asked. I had once an interview where one of the needs disappeared between the time they printed the ad, and the interview. Speaking about it was actually a mistake.

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

First, it's an excellent opportunity to train your interview skills. Opportunities are scarce for that, so enjoy, and learn. Even seasoned veterans can improve in that domain.

Second, it's a common occurence that no candidate fits all checkboxes. As soon as you need a profile with many specifics, it's more than likely that they'll choose a candidate with holes. In my current position, "functional knowledge of the healthcare industry" was a mandatory requirement, and I had none of it. I did learn. They like my contribution.

Third, a candidate who fits less checkboxes, but shows more potential, may be a better choice in the long run. As other said, do not lie about it. If they understand you are ready to improve, progress, and learn in the domain you don't master, you'll increase your chances of getting the job.

I'd go for not speaking about it unless asked, and jump on "I'd love to improve in that" once asked. I had once an interview where one of the needs disappeared between the time they printed the ad, and the interview. Speaking about it was actually a mistake.

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

answered yesterday

gazzz0x2z

6,19621735

6,19621735

• 
  
  
  

  
  17
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
  – Tom
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  7
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
  – Mark
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
  – teego1967
  22 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
  – Hennes
  20 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
  – Tom
  19 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

 | 
show 3 more comments

• 
  
  
  

  
  17
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
  – Tom
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  7
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
  – Mark
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
  – teego1967
  22 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
  – Hennes
  20 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
  – Tom
  19 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

17

17

This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
– Tom
yesterday

This. I've hired people for my team, including conducting interviews and giving profile information to HR for the ad. It is quite normal to write a "120%" profile where you don't actually expect any candidate to fit all your requirements. But you list them because one candidate might have A, B and C and the other B, C and D and you are ok with either set, so you require all four. You would be surprised how many "mandatory" requirements are actually not quite so mandatory.
– Tom
yesterday

7

7

In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
– Mark
yesterday

In addition to this answer, and the above comment, I've occasinally hired people who came in to interview for Job A but were actually a better fit for Job B that they didn't apply for. If they looked at the resume and called you, obviously they value you something about you. (You can always ask about this, at the interview.) Conversely, I've also worked with a number of companies that 'required' a minimum number of candidates for a position so they could claim to have done their due diligence in looking for a candidate.
– Mark
yesterday

2

2

@Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
– teego1967
22 hours ago

@Tom, well put, "requirements" is often a misnomer. The employer wants to fill the position with the best-fit candidate-- and that is NOT necessarily the person who fulfills the entire wish-list in the job description. The fact the candidate was selected for interview means the candidate is "close enough" for careful consideration. This is far more likely than the idea that they misread the CV.
– teego1967
22 hours ago

3

3

The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
– Hennes
20 hours ago

The 'requirements' from HR might have nothing to do with the job. That might sound pessimistic but even in a case where a manager wanted to hire me (based on work from the past), when he wrote the requiorements specifically to point 100% to me HR managed to 'improve' them in such a way that neither of us recognises the vacancy. Luckily for me boss and me I am still doing the work which he wants me to do. And not whatever ramble was on a HR posting. WHich is a long winded way of saying "Ignore requirements. Get an interview. Get past HR' Then talk about the people deciding and knowledgeable.
– Hennes
20 hours ago

2

2

Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
– Tom
19 hours ago

Hennes adds another good point: Very often there is a disconnect between the manager looking for a candidate and the HR department writing the ad. They might have standard texts to use, or standard requirements to add, or simply feel they can make the ad better.
– Tom
19 hours ago

 | 
show 3 more comments

up vote
7
down vote

If you have been chosen for an interview and don't know a particular field don't lie.. they are going to know about it anyway if you get the job. Always be honest at your interview!

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
  – delinear
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  +1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
  – mathreadler
  18 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
7
down vote

If you have been chosen for an interview and don't know a particular field don't lie.. they are going to know about it anyway if you get the job. Always be honest at your interview!

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
  – delinear
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  +1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
  – mathreadler
  18 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
7
down vote

up vote
7
down vote

If you have been chosen for an interview and don't know a particular field don't lie.. they are going to know about it anyway if you get the job. Always be honest at your interview!

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

If you have been chosen for an interview and don't know a particular field don't lie.. they are going to know about it anyway if you get the job. Always be honest at your interview!

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

answered yesterday

Meow Meow I'm a Cow

1794

1794

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

New contributor

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

Meow Meow I'm a Cow is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
  – delinear
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  +1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
  – mathreadler
  18 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  2
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
  – delinear
  yesterday
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  +1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
  – mathreadler
  18 hours ago
  
  

  
  
  
  

2

2

Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
– delinear
yesterday

Yes, be open about it, and also bring it up early. It could be that they are aware and the third skill is something they're happy to teach you on the job if you have skills 1 and 2. Alternatively it could be that they skimmed your CV and missed something that's a deal-breaker. Either way, it's in both party's benefit to mention this early. Worst case, you save yourself an hour or so of time.
– delinear
yesterday

+1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
– mathreadler
18 hours ago

+1 for funny CV picture. Will pull muuh strings.
– mathreadler
18 hours ago

add a comment | 

up vote
2
down vote

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working
on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

Finding a perfect fit is hard, so many companies are OK with new hires learning required skills at the job. Having 2/3 seems reasonable to me.

At the interview be honest that you never worked with item 3, and you would have to learn it. Meanwhile you can explore about item 3 and see if it is something you are interested in learning.

share|improve this answer

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

add a comment | 

up vote
2
down vote

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working
on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

Finding a perfect fit is hard, so many companies are OK with new hires learning required skills at the job. Having 2/3 seems reasonable to me.

At the interview be honest that you never worked with item 3, and you would have to learn it. Meanwhile you can explore about item 3 and see if it is something you are interested in learning.

share|improve this answer

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

add a comment | 

up vote
2
down vote

up vote
2
down vote

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working
on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

Finding a perfect fit is hard, so many companies are OK with new hires learning required skills at the job. Having 2/3 seems reasonable to me.

At the interview be honest that you never worked with item 3, and you would have to learn it. Meanwhile you can explore about item 3 and see if it is something you are interested in learning.

share|improve this answer

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

There are 3 main areas of responsibility the person will be working
on. I know two of them, but nothing about the third one.

Finding a perfect fit is hard, so many companies are OK with new hires learning required skills at the job. Having 2/3 seems reasonable to me.

At the interview be honest that you never worked with item 3, and you would have to learn it. Meanwhile you can explore about item 3 and see if it is something you are interested in learning.

share|improve this answer

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

answered 8 hours ago

Akavall

47959

47959

add a comment | 

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

What are other options?

My first guess would be that either they honestly overlooked it and need the things you don't have; or they noticed the omission, but are still interested in you - maybe for a slightly different position, or for learning on the job.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

Be as natural as you can be. View it as an occasion for networking, or to make a small foray into an unknown area. Don't view it as an interview as such; or rather an interview of your general character or approach to learning.

I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing

A short period of study to get a basic overview is of course important, but do not try to get some superficial know-how by studying for a week or more leading up to the interview. They will most certainly catch up to that, and if you try to pass it off as more than "I've googled it", you'll pretty much be disqualified for seeming slightly dishonest.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad?

"Assertive" and "stress" sounds quite laborious. Of course you should let them know, and maybe make sure that what's already in your CV is repeated during the talk. Some managers may not study the CV in-depth before the meeting and may have forgotten about this missing item. But I would not make a huge issue of it.

Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

Be yourself and hope that they see something that they like. Obviously, try to find out more about the job during the meeting, and if you see anything in the area you are already experienced in, make sure they know what you have to offer.

If, near the end of the interview (or the part where you talked about your experiences), you are not quite convinced that the issue has come up sufficiently, you may ask a last question, something like "by the way, you list A, B and C as prerequisites - I bring C, but you should be aware that A and B are not really my expertise". And see how they react.

share|improve this answer

edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
  – DaveG
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
  – AnoE
  22 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

What are other options?

My first guess would be that either they honestly overlooked it and need the things you don't have; or they noticed the omission, but are still interested in you - maybe for a slightly different position, or for learning on the job.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

Be as natural as you can be. View it as an occasion for networking, or to make a small foray into an unknown area. Don't view it as an interview as such; or rather an interview of your general character or approach to learning.

I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing

A short period of study to get a basic overview is of course important, but do not try to get some superficial know-how by studying for a week or more leading up to the interview. They will most certainly catch up to that, and if you try to pass it off as more than "I've googled it", you'll pretty much be disqualified for seeming slightly dishonest.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad?

"Assertive" and "stress" sounds quite laborious. Of course you should let them know, and maybe make sure that what's already in your CV is repeated during the talk. Some managers may not study the CV in-depth before the meeting and may have forgotten about this missing item. But I would not make a huge issue of it.

Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

Be yourself and hope that they see something that they like. Obviously, try to find out more about the job during the meeting, and if you see anything in the area you are already experienced in, make sure they know what you have to offer.

If, near the end of the interview (or the part where you talked about your experiences), you are not quite convinced that the issue has come up sufficiently, you may ask a last question, something like "by the way, you list A, B and C as prerequisites - I bring C, but you should be aware that A and B are not really my expertise". And see how they react.

share|improve this answer

edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
  – DaveG
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
  – AnoE
  22 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

up vote
1
down vote

What are other options?

My first guess would be that either they honestly overlooked it and need the things you don't have; or they noticed the omission, but are still interested in you - maybe for a slightly different position, or for learning on the job.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

Be as natural as you can be. View it as an occasion for networking, or to make a small foray into an unknown area. Don't view it as an interview as such; or rather an interview of your general character or approach to learning.

I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing

A short period of study to get a basic overview is of course important, but do not try to get some superficial know-how by studying for a week or more leading up to the interview. They will most certainly catch up to that, and if you try to pass it off as more than "I've googled it", you'll pretty much be disqualified for seeming slightly dishonest.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad?

"Assertive" and "stress" sounds quite laborious. Of course you should let them know, and maybe make sure that what's already in your CV is repeated during the talk. Some managers may not study the CV in-depth before the meeting and may have forgotten about this missing item. But I would not make a huge issue of it.

Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

Be yourself and hope that they see something that they like. Obviously, try to find out more about the job during the meeting, and if you see anything in the area you are already experienced in, make sure they know what you have to offer.

If, near the end of the interview (or the part where you talked about your experiences), you are not quite convinced that the issue has come up sufficiently, you may ask a last question, something like "by the way, you list A, B and C as prerequisites - I bring C, but you should be aware that A and B are not really my expertise". And see how they react.

share|improve this answer

edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

What are other options?

My first guess would be that either they honestly overlooked it and need the things you don't have; or they noticed the omission, but are still interested in you - maybe for a slightly different position, or for learning on the job.

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

Be as natural as you can be. View it as an occasion for networking, or to make a small foray into an unknown area. Don't view it as an interview as such; or rather an interview of your general character or approach to learning.

I wouldn't like to waste a week or more preparing

A short period of study to get a basic overview is of course important, but do not try to get some superficial know-how by studying for a week or more leading up to the interview. They will most certainly catch up to that, and if you try to pass it off as more than "I've googled it", you'll pretty much be disqualified for seeming slightly dishonest.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not mentioned in the ad?

"Assertive" and "stress" sounds quite laborious. Of course you should let them know, and maybe make sure that what's already in your CV is repeated during the talk. Some managers may not study the CV in-depth before the meeting and may have forgotten about this missing item. But I would not make a huge issue of it.

Can I do anything to increase my chances of getting the job? I want it, but don't fulfill the conditions.

Be yourself and hope that they see something that they like. Obviously, try to find out more about the job during the meeting, and if you see anything in the area you are already experienced in, make sure they know what you have to offer.

If, near the end of the interview (or the part where you talked about your experiences), you are not quite convinced that the issue has come up sufficiently, you may ask a last question, something like "by the way, you list A, B and C as prerequisites - I bring C, but you should be aware that A and B are not really my expertise". And see how they react.

share|improve this answer

edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

edited 22 hours ago

edited 22 hours ago

edited 22 hours ago

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

answered yesterday

AnoE

5,152725

5,152725

• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
  – DaveG
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
  – AnoE
  22 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  3
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
  – DaveG
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  1
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
  – AnoE
  22 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

3

3

I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
– DaveG
23 hours ago

I would really, really disagree with not researching the area that the OP isn't familiar with. For sure he shouldn't claim unwarranted expertise, but a short period of study to get a basic overview is really important. It may well come up during the interview that the interviewer does some explaining of this third area, and having a basic background will allow the OP to fill in details, rather than being completely lost.
– DaveG
23 hours ago

1

1

@DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
– AnoE
22 hours ago

@DaveG, thanks for that comment. I've cleared up my intended meaning, and stolen a half-sentence from your comment. Hope that's better now.
– AnoE
22 hours ago

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

In my experience, I've been burned by employers failing to read my full resume during a transition between specialties and it's been a negative experience for both sides. Since then, I've found it extremely important to manage both my own expectations as well as my potential employers and its made my life considerably easier.

Given that this is a non-entry level, skilled position the most critical thing is that you do not misrepresent yourself. During your interview, do not shy away from the lack of experience on the matter.

Demonstrate your attention to detail by indicating that you are able to perform elements 1 and 2 of the job description, but will be expecting your manager to assist with element 3. Come prepared with potential options for how that can be done either in the form of requesting a mentor to help you learn the skill, potential training classes you can take, or a third option. I do not recommend offering to learn the skill on your own time (i.e. you pay for your own training, unless that's a commonplace thing in your field).

I'd recommend bringing this up at the point of the interview when the interviewer asks if you've any questions for them (i.e. not right from the outset). If the employer seems put off by this, you may not want to accept an offer if one is made. On the other hand, if the employer is enthusiastic and indicates they're fine with training you for what you don't know, just make sure it's in writing and you should be good to go.

share|improve this answer

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
  – Draco18s
  14 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
  – Pyrotechnical
  49 mins ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

In my experience, I've been burned by employers failing to read my full resume during a transition between specialties and it's been a negative experience for both sides. Since then, I've found it extremely important to manage both my own expectations as well as my potential employers and its made my life considerably easier.

Given that this is a non-entry level, skilled position the most critical thing is that you do not misrepresent yourself. During your interview, do not shy away from the lack of experience on the matter.

Demonstrate your attention to detail by indicating that you are able to perform elements 1 and 2 of the job description, but will be expecting your manager to assist with element 3. Come prepared with potential options for how that can be done either in the form of requesting a mentor to help you learn the skill, potential training classes you can take, or a third option. I do not recommend offering to learn the skill on your own time (i.e. you pay for your own training, unless that's a commonplace thing in your field).

I'd recommend bringing this up at the point of the interview when the interviewer asks if you've any questions for them (i.e. not right from the outset). If the employer seems put off by this, you may not want to accept an offer if one is made. On the other hand, if the employer is enthusiastic and indicates they're fine with training you for what you don't know, just make sure it's in writing and you should be good to go.

share|improve this answer

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
  – Draco18s
  14 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
  – Pyrotechnical
  49 mins ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

up vote
1
down vote

In my experience, I've been burned by employers failing to read my full resume during a transition between specialties and it's been a negative experience for both sides. Since then, I've found it extremely important to manage both my own expectations as well as my potential employers and its made my life considerably easier.

Given that this is a non-entry level, skilled position the most critical thing is that you do not misrepresent yourself. During your interview, do not shy away from the lack of experience on the matter.

Demonstrate your attention to detail by indicating that you are able to perform elements 1 and 2 of the job description, but will be expecting your manager to assist with element 3. Come prepared with potential options for how that can be done either in the form of requesting a mentor to help you learn the skill, potential training classes you can take, or a third option. I do not recommend offering to learn the skill on your own time (i.e. you pay for your own training, unless that's a commonplace thing in your field).

I'd recommend bringing this up at the point of the interview when the interviewer asks if you've any questions for them (i.e. not right from the outset). If the employer seems put off by this, you may not want to accept an offer if one is made. On the other hand, if the employer is enthusiastic and indicates they're fine with training you for what you don't know, just make sure it's in writing and you should be good to go.

share|improve this answer

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

In my experience, I've been burned by employers failing to read my full resume during a transition between specialties and it's been a negative experience for both sides. Since then, I've found it extremely important to manage both my own expectations as well as my potential employers and its made my life considerably easier.

Given that this is a non-entry level, skilled position the most critical thing is that you do not misrepresent yourself. During your interview, do not shy away from the lack of experience on the matter.

Demonstrate your attention to detail by indicating that you are able to perform elements 1 and 2 of the job description, but will be expecting your manager to assist with element 3. Come prepared with potential options for how that can be done either in the form of requesting a mentor to help you learn the skill, potential training classes you can take, or a third option. I do not recommend offering to learn the skill on your own time (i.e. you pay for your own training, unless that's a commonplace thing in your field).

I'd recommend bringing this up at the point of the interview when the interviewer asks if you've any questions for them (i.e. not right from the outset). If the employer seems put off by this, you may not want to accept an offer if one is made. On the other hand, if the employer is enthusiastic and indicates they're fine with training you for what you don't know, just make sure it's in writing and you should be good to go.

share|improve this answer

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

answered 22 hours ago

Pyrotechnical

2243

2243

• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
  – Draco18s
  14 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
  – Pyrotechnical
  49 mins ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
  – Draco18s
  14 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
  – Pyrotechnical
  49 mins ago
  

  
  
  
  

That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
– Draco18s
14 hours ago

That said, it's still possible that they'll go with someone else. I've had that experience several times.
– Draco18s
14 hours ago

@Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
– Pyrotechnical
49 mins ago

@Draco18s that's true regardless. But many times a position's requirements may be difficult to completely fulfill with spending a lot of time doing a job search. It can be more cost-effective for a company to get 90% of what they need in a candidate and train the remainder. It helps the company if an applicant can demonstrate self-awareness regarding where to spend training dollars as opposed to making management have to figure it out after the fact.
– Pyrotechnical
49 mins ago

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

You don't need to "sell" anything. An interview means that they are interested and so are you. The interview is there to see if you are a good fit for each other.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they
expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not
mentioned in the ad?

You should be inquisitive as to what the plan is in terms of training you in the fields where you lack expertise/experience.
What is the timeline for completing my training? What kinds of training seminars will I be doing? are both valid questions to ask.

Bottom line is that although you want the job, you want to make sure that you manage expectations by being real about what you can accomplish in the job. Remember that doing a good job after getting hired is the real goal.

share|improve this answer

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

You don't need to "sell" anything. An interview means that they are interested and so are you. The interview is there to see if you are a good fit for each other.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they
expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not
mentioned in the ad?

You should be inquisitive as to what the plan is in terms of training you in the fields where you lack expertise/experience.
What is the timeline for completing my training? What kinds of training seminars will I be doing? are both valid questions to ask.

Bottom line is that although you want the job, you want to make sure that you manage expectations by being real about what you can accomplish in the job. Remember that doing a good job after getting hired is the real goal.

share|improve this answer

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

add a comment | 

up vote
1
down vote

up vote
1
down vote

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

You don't need to "sell" anything. An interview means that they are interested and so are you. The interview is there to see if you are a good fit for each other.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they
expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not
mentioned in the ad?

You should be inquisitive as to what the plan is in terms of training you in the fields where you lack expertise/experience.
What is the timeline for completing my training? What kinds of training seminars will I be doing? are both valid questions to ask.

Bottom line is that although you want the job, you want to make sure that you manage expectations by being real about what you can accomplish in the job. Remember that doing a good job after getting hired is the real goal.

share|improve this answer

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

How should I approach that during the interview ("sell it")?

You don't need to "sell" anything. An interview means that they are interested and so are you. The interview is there to see if you are a good fit for each other.

Should I be assertive about not having experience in one of the fields they
expect experience in and stress expertise in other fields not
mentioned in the ad?

You should be inquisitive as to what the plan is in terms of training you in the fields where you lack expertise/experience.
What is the timeline for completing my training? What kinds of training seminars will I be doing? are both valid questions to ask.

Bottom line is that although you want the job, you want to make sure that you manage expectations by being real about what you can accomplish in the job. Remember that doing a good job after getting hired is the real goal.

share|improve this answer

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

answered 5 hours ago

kolsyra

83868

83868

add a comment | 

add a comment | 

up vote
-1
down vote

Call the person who chose you and get clarification: "I've re-read your ad and noticed [X]. I'm a quick learner but I don't actually have [X]. Is that a dealbreaker?"

If it's not (and very often it isn't) they'll be impressed at your willingness to clarify and communicate.

If it is, you wouldn't have got the job anyway. No point wasting your time and theirs.

share|improve this answer

edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  8
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
  – NKCampbell
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
  – Armfoot
  16 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
  – Jamie Clinton
  13 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
-1
down vote

Call the person who chose you and get clarification: "I've re-read your ad and noticed [X]. I'm a quick learner but I don't actually have [X]. Is that a dealbreaker?"

If it's not (and very often it isn't) they'll be impressed at your willingness to clarify and communicate.

If it is, you wouldn't have got the job anyway. No point wasting your time and theirs.

share|improve this answer

edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  8
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
  – NKCampbell
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
  – Armfoot
  16 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
  – Jamie Clinton
  13 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

up vote
-1
down vote

up vote
-1
down vote

Call the person who chose you and get clarification: "I've re-read your ad and noticed [X]. I'm a quick learner but I don't actually have [X]. Is that a dealbreaker?"

If it's not (and very often it isn't) they'll be impressed at your willingness to clarify and communicate.

If it is, you wouldn't have got the job anyway. No point wasting your time and theirs.

share|improve this answer

edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

Call the person who chose you and get clarification: "I've re-read your ad and noticed [X]. I'm a quick learner but I don't actually have [X]. Is that a dealbreaker?"

If it's not (and very often it isn't) they'll be impressed at your willingness to clarify and communicate.

If it is, you wouldn't have got the job anyway. No point wasting your time and theirs.

share|improve this answer

edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

share|improve this answer

share|improve this answer

edited 10 hours ago

edited 10 hours ago

edited 10 hours ago

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

answered yesterday

MGOwen

1315

1315

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

New contributor

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

MGOwen is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.

• 
  
  
  

  
  8
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
  – NKCampbell
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
  – Armfoot
  16 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
  – Jamie Clinton
  13 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

add a comment | 

• 
  
  
  

  
  8
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
  – NKCampbell
  23 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  @NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
  – Armfoot
  16 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  


• 
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
  – Jamie Clinton
  13 hours ago
  

  
  
  
  

8

8

it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
– NKCampbell
23 hours ago

it's possible though that the person you end up talking to on the phone may not be the person[s] responsible for calling you into the interview. Just trust the process - they want to talk to you, go ahead and go on in
– NKCampbell
23 hours ago

@NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
– Armfoot
16 hours ago

@NKCampbell Agreed and even if the person on the other end was the one responsible for accepting the CV, that person might had its own reasons to make that decision. E.g.s: they did not find a person with all the required skills or enough proficiency on them and they need to hire ASAP; the recruiter noticed a particular skill in the CV that is as valuable or more than those mentioned in their ad; they plan to hire the person with almost all required skills for a (much) lower salary. The latter almost happened to me: I just lacked 1 of all the 9 skills and they proposed to halve the amount.
– Armfoot
16 hours ago

Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
– Jamie Clinton
13 hours ago

Theres nothing to gain and everything to lose from this answer.
– Jamie Clinton
13 hours ago

add a comment | 

 

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