Why your dream job isn't as out of reach as you think
An open secret about job postings in data & analytics
A junior statistician has been applying for jobs, but feels intimidated by the many requirements that job postings contain. She asked me for advice, and I told her an open secret about data & analytics:
You don't need to fulfill ALL of the requirements in a job posting in order to submit an application. As long as you have several of the key skills that are listed, then you should1 apply for that job.
To a certain extent, I am sympathetic to employers about why they list so many requirements in a job posting: To steelman their intentions, they are trying to inform the successful candidate about what he/she needs to do to succeed in that role. However, here is what happens as a consequence:
The employer places an unrealistic expectation onto the job applicants.
Very few people will actually have every qualification listed in the job description.
In fact, the rare person who actually fulfills every requirement will feel bored by the job and likely be over-qualified.
Furthermore, the salary will likely NOT meet this perfect candidate’s expectation.
In practice, the successful candidate fulfills a few of the key requirements, but will need training on the job to learn other skills. This is normal.
Above a minimal level of technical competence, what really matters is a candidate's work ethic. If you consistently work hard, follow instructions, and pay attention to details, then you will be a very valuable worker, and your boss will be more willing to train you on your technical weaknesses. Last week, I elaborated on what a good work ethic is in data & analytics, and I encourage you to read that in detail.
In short, don't be intimidated by a long list of requirements in a job description. If you think that you have the minimal qualifications, then put yourself in consideration for that job. Remember: You miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take, so apply for it and give yourself that chance.
My suggestion is based on my experience in Canada, whose job postings are quite similar to what I see in the USA and the UK. I am not knowledgeable about the culture of job postings in other countries, though I suspect that this is similar in Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.