I want a job in emergency management at a fire department, at an organisation or company, or with the government. I have one certificate in emergency management and one year of experience, but many of the job ads for such positions require much more experience and other certifications.

Should I apply for these jobs despite the fact that I don’t possess the requirements? I have a passion for helping people, and I absolutely want a career in this area.

IF you apply for a position that demands a certain amount of experience and a certain number of certifications that you are missing, your résumé won’t even be considered.

If you think this field is your calling, make a list of all the qualifications these jobs require, then send a cover letter explaining your passion for the field and interest in applying for any job openings at any level.

You may receive rejection letters, but you will have got your name in front of the hiring people and contact names to call for informational interviews. You will never impress everyone who receives your letter, but you only need one person who admires your goals enough to champion you in the field.

Informational interviews serve many purposes. They introduce potential job candidates to professionals in the field, which helps with future networking. They offer a wealth of inside information on the jobs in the field, and they give the job candidates interviewing experience. Just as you have a passion for helping people, the chances are good that you will connect with a professional who wants to help you advance in that field.

– Creators News Service