Job seekers shouldn’t necessarily pass on applying for a job if they don’t match all the qualifications. According to new research from global staffing firm Robert Half, 42% of resumes received by HR managers are from professionals who don’t meet the job requirements.
In a separate survey of workers, 78% admitted they would submit for a role even if they aren’t qualified. Luckily for applicants, 84% of companies are willing to hire and train a candidate who lacks required skills.
62% of employees have been offered a position when they were underqualified. Among workers in the 28 U.S. cities polled, this has happened most frequently in Charlotte, San Diego, Austin and Washington, D.C.
“When it’s challenging to find candidates who check off all the boxes, companies may need to re-evaluate their job requirements to hire the right talent,” said Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. “Workers can be trained on duties for a role, but individuals with the right soft skills and fit with the corporate culture are often harder to come by.”
McDonald added, “Professionals shouldn’t rule themselves out for a position if they don’t fulfill all the criteria. However, applicants need to make a strong case by highlighting past results, transferable skills and a willingness to learn.”
Check out this infographic from Robert half:
