job you want vs. most qualifed for
Hi, just posted the Mensa question so I won't repeat background. Here's a dilemma> I really want to join a new organization as a department head. My education and early career experience make me particularly suited for one position---Director of Communications. I have a MA in journalism and started my career working for several papers. But my middle career and my interests lie in another position--Director of Business Development. I've spend several years building businesses that I've started to success. My personal interests, current occupation (own a business closely related to the organization's industry), hobbies, etc. are all related directly to either one. But my education and early jobs make me fit the requirements described for Director of Communication almost perfectly. I don't particularly fit the Bus. Dev. requirements because they ask for a MBA or related degree. So the question: Should I say that I am applying only for the Communication position since it is the most likely one for me to get? Or should send my resume and indicate in my cover letter that I would be interested in either position? Does that make me seem wishy-washy? Can I say, "You will notice that my education and background are perfect for the communications position, but I would like to point out that I've spent the last ten years of my career in capacities more closely related to business development and I would be more interested in that position." Can I hedge then and say I'd take the communications if offered? The positions are of equal stature (both report directly to the president) and equal pay. Thanks If you can apply for both then do so. In your cover lettter point out the fact that your educational interests and pursuits have all been geared toward one while your practical experience has been geared toward the other. If they are equal in status, pay and who you report to, then one job isn't necessarily better than the other. (In my opinion). Try to stay away from saying you are better suited for one above the other because the company's president (whom you will be reporting to) may just well be of the opposite opinion. Plus, by your own admission, the career you went to college for has not been your primary job experience and a lot could (and probably has) changed since then. there may be a lot of rules and ways of doing things that you do not have first hand knowledge of. Even if you have been keeping yourself apprised of the changes, you may have missed some because you are not directly involved in that aspect any longer.
Kelly's advice is good. I would just add the wording somewhere in your introduction that you are "equally qualified for either position." Then briefly explain why. Don't profess a preference for either, and don't say that one is a better fit. I'd make the point that it is the company, its reputation, and your desire to work for such an organization that is driving your interest, and you'd be satisfied in either position. That way you don't sound wishy washy and you don't limit your chances at either job. | |
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