Job Search Conversations

From conversations I've had with young people about jobs and careers:

"It would be a waste of time for me to apply for that job. I don't have everything they're asking for."

"That's true. But you're reasonably close. Many private sector employers toss things into the job requirements that they abandon during the screening process. I've seen people hired who bore little resemblance to the job announcement. Apply anyway."

"I know I can do that job but I don't have the right degree or background."

"I know you can do it too and if the members of the screening board knew you they'd probably agree. The difficulty is this is for a governmental position. Public sector screening is much more regimented and for that job, unfortunately, it will be hard for you to get through the initial cut."

"They asked for a degree in business. Mine is in political science."

"Go for it. Look between the lines for what they really want. Odds are, they want a person who is bright, positive, and trainable."

"I'm depressed. I thought I did really well in the interview but didn't get the job."

"Recognize that the majority of the applicants didn't even get an interview. An interview is a compliment. It says you have something of interest."

"I'm not sure if I want that job."

"Apply for it anyway. You can always say no and if you don't apply, you won't even have that opportunity. Besides, every job interview is a training session. You get better and better. It's better for your fifth interview to be the one for your dream job than for that to be your first interview."

"The interview was very informal. I felt like I was chatting with friends."

"There is no informal interview. It's fine that you were relaxed but don't get too relaxed. Always remember that you're being interviewed."

"I thought they were rude and arrogant during the interview. I doubt if I'll get the job."

"Why would you want to work with such people?"