Should I mention that I am underqualified in my cover letter?












1















I am an entry-level programmer (just graduated university 2 years ago) living in a smaller city, so the job market is a bit dry and their aren't a lot of opportunities for people just starting out. I am applying to a job where I don't meet some of the job requirements posted on the company's website, mainly that they are looking for someone with several years' experience in their particular field.



I understand that I may not get the job but I want to apply anyway because I like the company and I am hoping I can prove my worth to them enough that they can give me a chance. Problem is, I feel like the interview is the best place for me to make a case for myself. What can I say when I submit my resume and cover letter that shows that I am willing to work hard to make up for my deficit in experience, enough to at least get a foot in the door? Should I mention that I know I don't fill the requirements? Would not mentioning it be disingenuous?










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    1















    I am an entry-level programmer (just graduated university 2 years ago) living in a smaller city, so the job market is a bit dry and their aren't a lot of opportunities for people just starting out. I am applying to a job where I don't meet some of the job requirements posted on the company's website, mainly that they are looking for someone with several years' experience in their particular field.



    I understand that I may not get the job but I want to apply anyway because I like the company and I am hoping I can prove my worth to them enough that they can give me a chance. Problem is, I feel like the interview is the best place for me to make a case for myself. What can I say when I submit my resume and cover letter that shows that I am willing to work hard to make up for my deficit in experience, enough to at least get a foot in the door? Should I mention that I know I don't fill the requirements? Would not mentioning it be disingenuous?










    share|improve this question







    New contributor




    ClydeTheGhost is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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      1












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      I am an entry-level programmer (just graduated university 2 years ago) living in a smaller city, so the job market is a bit dry and their aren't a lot of opportunities for people just starting out. I am applying to a job where I don't meet some of the job requirements posted on the company's website, mainly that they are looking for someone with several years' experience in their particular field.



      I understand that I may not get the job but I want to apply anyway because I like the company and I am hoping I can prove my worth to them enough that they can give me a chance. Problem is, I feel like the interview is the best place for me to make a case for myself. What can I say when I submit my resume and cover letter that shows that I am willing to work hard to make up for my deficit in experience, enough to at least get a foot in the door? Should I mention that I know I don't fill the requirements? Would not mentioning it be disingenuous?










      share|improve this question







      New contributor




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












      I am an entry-level programmer (just graduated university 2 years ago) living in a smaller city, so the job market is a bit dry and their aren't a lot of opportunities for people just starting out. I am applying to a job where I don't meet some of the job requirements posted on the company's website, mainly that they are looking for someone with several years' experience in their particular field.



      I understand that I may not get the job but I want to apply anyway because I like the company and I am hoping I can prove my worth to them enough that they can give me a chance. Problem is, I feel like the interview is the best place for me to make a case for myself. What can I say when I submit my resume and cover letter that shows that I am willing to work hard to make up for my deficit in experience, enough to at least get a foot in the door? Should I mention that I know I don't fill the requirements? Would not mentioning it be disingenuous?







      resume united-states applications






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          Should I mention that I don't fill the requirements?




          You don't. The recruiters aren't blind they'll figure that out as soon as they read your CV. Just make sure your CV fully covers your ability and willingness to improve and that your cover letter makes it show you really want to work at the company you're applying for.



          CV and cover letter is a way to show your strengths and what you can provide the company whilst also saying why you want to work for the prospective employer. Don't mention any weaknesses. They'll find them, but it means you don't show that you had that hesitation in your mind when applying.





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            Should I mention that I don't fill the requirements?




            You don't. The recruiters aren't blind they'll figure that out as soon as they read your CV. Just make sure your CV fully covers your ability and willingness to improve and that your cover letter makes it show you really want to work at the company you're applying for.



            CV and cover letter is a way to show your strengths and what you can provide the company whilst also saying why you want to work for the prospective employer. Don't mention any weaknesses. They'll find them, but it means you don't show that you had that hesitation in your mind when applying.





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              0















              Should I mention that I don't fill the requirements?




              You don't. The recruiters aren't blind they'll figure that out as soon as they read your CV. Just make sure your CV fully covers your ability and willingness to improve and that your cover letter makes it show you really want to work at the company you're applying for.



              CV and cover letter is a way to show your strengths and what you can provide the company whilst also saying why you want to work for the prospective employer. Don't mention any weaknesses. They'll find them, but it means you don't show that you had that hesitation in your mind when applying.





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                Should I mention that I don't fill the requirements?




                You don't. The recruiters aren't blind they'll figure that out as soon as they read your CV. Just make sure your CV fully covers your ability and willingness to improve and that your cover letter makes it show you really want to work at the company you're applying for.



                CV and cover letter is a way to show your strengths and what you can provide the company whilst also saying why you want to work for the prospective employer. Don't mention any weaknesses. They'll find them, but it means you don't show that you had that hesitation in your mind when applying.





                share














                Should I mention that I don't fill the requirements?




                You don't. The recruiters aren't blind they'll figure that out as soon as they read your CV. Just make sure your CV fully covers your ability and willingness to improve and that your cover letter makes it show you really want to work at the company you're applying for.



                CV and cover letter is a way to show your strengths and what you can provide the company whilst also saying why you want to work for the prospective employer. Don't mention any weaknesses. They'll find them, but it means you don't show that you had that hesitation in your mind when applying.






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