aaakkk... There's Something On the Job Posting I Can't Do... How to Best Market Yourself

You see a job posting that you REALLY like. Ok, maybe you just kinda like it... but you're pretty sure it's a good fit for you. WELL... except there are some things you don't know how to do. And quite frankly it's frustrating. And disappointing.

I mean, you're thinking, "I could soooo do this job." Maybe I could just start a cover letter by saying "I am not familiar with this computer program, and I never really managed a team, but I am a quick learner and know I could be a valuable asset to your team."

And that's the fatal error. So, here's the thing. Your cover letter is your pitch, you promoting you. Starting a cover letter with everything you DON'T have, isn't going to get you the job. Or even an interview.

Same thing with pointing out what you don't have on an interview. Telling a Hiring Manager, "there are probably better candidates than me", or "I know I'm not the best one for the job" is not going to win you the job. Remember what I always say, "If YOU don't think you can do it, "THEY aren't going to think you can do it."

I personally have received lots of resumes for assistant positions with my company, where the individual tells me, "I don't know any of the tech systems you use, but I am happy to learn." Without them pointing out any of the VALUE they can add, those resumes are easily discarded. It makes sense, right?

So what should you do, you ask? And I'm going to tell you. Point out and emphasis what you DO have. All the skills, talents, and accomplishments that make you unique and better that anyone else for the job.

And HOW will you know what they are looking for? That's the job posting, of course. More than just the requirements for the job. Carefully read the description of the entire position and close your eyes. Visualize what the purpose of this role is and NOW think about and clearly express what you can add.

Because highlighting why you are AWESOME is a far better way of convincing someone to hire you than showcasing all the reasons you aren't a good fit.