…if the job requirements include: Semantic Java, Hibernate, etc. And the company is: a Web 2.0 business information engine that’s created (and is creating more) highly disruptive products. And the team we’re looking to hire for: is our Core development team, which focuses on natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and information integration.
And you are: an embedded software engineer with a PhD in electronics, and a Masters in signal processing and controls.
Then, you can’t claim in your cover letter that your: “working experience closely matches the position requirements.”
Here’s the thing. If this cat had made a strong, thought out pitch about how his work experience was in any way relevant, it’s not out of the realm of possibility he would get considered by some companies. Not here, because we honestly need directly relevant experience for this critical hire, but a larger organization might have thought “hmm, smart guy, can communicate – and, it never would have occurred to us from his resume, but yeah, that project he did is relevant to what we do…”
April 3, 2009 at 2:00 pm
I think right now people will send in their resume in for just about any position available hoping that HR people can place them for possible a different position.
April 8, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Which is sad thinking. Especially now. HR types, recruiters, hiring managers – frankly, everybody who’s involved with the hiring process – is getting barraged with people trying to find work. If you’re hoping to get somebody internal to take the time to help you, you need to help them first. Make it easy for them to understand why you’re a great candidate for the company, even if you’re not a great fit for the role.
There’s no time left for pity.