Don't Let Graduate Job Requirements Intimidate You: What Employers Really Want

Scrolling through graduate job listings can feel discouraging. Pages of requirements, qualifications, and skills might seem impossible to match. But here's what recruiters won't tell you: those listings describe wish-lists, not deal-breakers.

The Truth About Job Requirements

Employers list ideal candidates, not minimum qualifications. This approach helps them envision the perfect hire whilst remaining open to strong candidates who don't tick every box.

Research consistently shows that men apply for jobs when they meet 60% of requirements, whilst women typically wait until they match 100%. Don't fall into this trap—confidence matters as much as qualifications.

Understanding Essential Versus Desirable Skills

Graduate job listings typically separate requirements into categories:

Essential skills are non-negotiable. These might include specific degree subjects, right to work in the UK, or fundamental technical abilities.

Desirable skills offer flexibility. Employers hope candidates possess these but understand perfect matches are rare.

Focus your application on demonstrating essential capabilities whilst highlighting any desirable skills you possess.

The 80% Application Rule

Career experts recommend applying when you meet approximately 80% of listed requirements. Why? Because:

• Employers often describe aspirational rather than realistic candidates

• Training programmes exist to develop missing skills

• Transferable skills compensate for specific experience gaps

• Enthusiasm and cultural fit matter enormously

If you're discouraged by lengthy requirements lists, focus on the first few items. Employers typically list most important qualifications first.

Translating Soft Skills Into Applications

Graduate job listings emphasise soft skills: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability. These abstract qualities need concrete demonstration.

Transform vague claims into specific stories:

Instead of "excellent communicator," describe presenting research findings to diverse audiences or mediating between international group members on university projects.

Rather than "strong team player," discuss collaborative coursework where you coordinated contributions from classmates across different time zones.

Keywords and Applicant Tracking Systems

Many large employers use automated systems to screen applications before human review. These systems scan for keywords matching job listings.

Incorporate exact phrases from listings naturally throughout your CV and cover letter. If the listing mentions "project management," use that precise term rather than "organising activities."

This strategy helps your application reach human reviewers whilst demonstrating attention to detail.

When Experience Doesn't Match Perfectly

Lack of direct experience shouldn't stop applications. Employers understand graduates have limited professional backgrounds—that's why these roles exist.

Highlight transferable experience from:

• University society involvement

• Part-time employment

• Volunteering activities

• Academic projects

• International study experiences

Frame these experiences using professional language. "Social media coordinator for student society" sounds more impressive than "posted on Instagram for my uni club."

Show Enthusiasm Through Research

When qualifications seem borderline, exceptional enthusiasm compensates. Cover letters should demonstrate understanding of the company's mission, knowledge of recent achievements, and genuine interest in the specific role.

This research-backed enthusiasm signals you'll be an engaged employee worth training.

Apply With Confidence

Remember that employers want to fill positions with candidates they can hire. Your job is convincing them you're that person.

Approach requirements as guidelines rather than gatekeepers. If you genuinely believe you could perform the role successfully with reasonable onboarding, apply confidently.

Looking for more strategies to strengthen your graduate job applications? Read the comprehensive guide to analysing job listings from Student Circus and learn how to present yourself as the ideal candidate.