When it comes to finding our first full time job, a good majority of college graduates apply for entry level positions. The idea is to get your foot in the door and work your way up in your respected field of choice. However, sometimes searching for that entry level position puts us at a halt.
When we go online, we spot a position that is interesting to us. We read the job description and it looks fun and rewarding. It ties into everything that we want to do. Scroll down the page to read about the experience the position is seeking, and it requires a minimum of 1-3 years’ experience. How is this an entry level position but it requires 1-3 years’ experience?
This can be a little nerve racking to us as we might have the mindset that we are unqualified for the position. I know I looked at some of these positions and thought I had to find a different job. But you know what else popped in my mind when I saw positions asking for 2 years’ experience? “I’m going to apply anyway”.
Good advice that I was given when applying was that if I look at the requirements and qualifications for the positions, if I qualify for half of what the company is looking for, I should apply for it. Don’t be discouraged about not being qualified for a job because it asks for a certain number of experience. Granted if you are going after a managerial position looking for 10 years, you might need to reconsider applying for that job. Although, if you are looking at some of the job requirements and find that you make the check list of what they are looking for, go ahead and apply. It is better to try and push your luck rather than do nothing at all.
Once you find out you fulfill most of requirements the position is looking for, tailor your resume and cover letter to stand out to the recruiter. Whatever the skills you have that match to the job. Whether that experience is coming from an internship, previous jobs related to the one your applying for, or even a college project. Just make sure they stand out.
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