We all know that the job search is really, really tough, and you deserve every break you can get.  Don’t inadvertently make it tougher on yourself by applying for jobs that you’re not qualified for.    

There are times when it’s perfectly fine to stretch and apply for the job that is at the next level in your career.  You can network to build up your personal connections, or outline your achievements in your cover letter when you apply for the job.  That’s how you advance your career and it’s the only way you’ll advance up the ladder of life. 

What I’m talking about is applying to those jobs where you have absolutely none of the background they’re looking for in the job description.  I’ve seen people with MBA’s apply for Assistant Account Manager positions.  I’ve also seen people with more of an artistic, creative background apply for a position requiring analytical experience. 

As a hiring manager, I’m willing to take some chances on people, but when there’s clearly a mismatch I feel bad for the applicant.  Are they sitting at home beating themselves up for not getting any interviews?  Or are they sitting at home randomly applying to jobs in the hopes that the numbers game will finally work in their favor? 

The sad thing is that it’s a waste of their time and energy. 

Their time would be much better spent either working on identifying jobs that they were qualified for or crafting their resume and cover letter to clearly make the case that they are the perfect applicant for the position.  As a side note--if you have any non-traditional hobbies like making lighthouses out of popsicle sticks—that might be better kept under wraps as well.  If it doesn’t strengthen your case as the perfect candidate, it’s best to leave it out.   

Nobody’s going to ever believe that a person with an MBA and 10 years of experience will willingly take an assistant position.  However, if you’re looking to just send your resume to them in the hopes that there are other positions they could consider you for—then state that in your cover letter.  Not calling it out in the cover letter makes it look like you’re underestimating the intelligence of the interviewer and wasting their time by making them open your email. 

Put some thought into the positions that you apply for.  I know that it’s tough out there, but sending out resumes to jobs that aren’t a good fit will just increase your frustration and will not result in any fruitful job interviews.