I need help with a cover letter, and I need it quick.

[Evoman]

Okay, so I'm applying for a position that I'm woefully under-qualified for (basically, I'm a pretty experienced lab tech and the position is for a Knowledge Resources Analyst). Now, ordinarily I would probably pass the job by, but something about the job description just caught my eye. Whenever I browse want ads, every single job I find in my field (and even outside of my field) they either fall into the "I'd rather die then do that job" category or the "That job sounds crappy but I could probably put up with it" category.

As you can plainly see, I'm not really interested in a lab job anymore and want something in the science field, but outside the nitty gritty lab work. This job appeals to me, and I think would be a very good match for both my personality and my analytic skills. I've got some of the science knowledge that they are looking for, but otherwise, on paper, I'm just not a good match.

That being said, I lose nothing by giving it a shot. However, I have two ways to approach this. In writing my cover letter, I can try to play up the experience I DO have. While this sounds good, I'll almost certainly get rejected. I could also tailor my cover letter into asking for an informational interview and basically give up the job for a chance to make contacts and maybe learn how to get a similar job in the future. I'm not sure what I should do....I suppose I could just apply for the position, and then try to get an informational interview?

What do you guys think?

[Evoman]

1. I could really use some help with this.....anybody?

[XemaSab]

2. How far outside the quals are you?

And does this company hire people who do what you're currently doing?

If they do hire people who do what you're currently doing, can you get an informational interview for your current job, and then say "Hey, I saw that you guys had this other job open. What kind of experience would you be looking for for that position?"

[Evoman]

5. Yes, they hire people for what I currently do.

Basically, I'm a biology lab tech, with an undergrad in Biochemistry, and a Masters in Biology with a concentration in genetics, phylogenetics and bioinformatics.

What they are looking for is an undergrad in Sciences or Business, and a Masters in Library Sciences, Journalism, or Marketing.

They do have some positions for lab techs and research scientists, particularly in chemistry, but they are not offering any positions like that at the moment(but even if they were, I wouldn't be that interested).

Actually, your suggestion is a great idea, but I didn't see the posting until today and the job deadline is monday. That's why I'm sort of rushed, and I have to get this all done today and tommorow morning, because I'm going to a job conference in another city over the weekend.

[struggle4progress]

3. Make clear how interested you are in the company and the job

[yellerpup]

4. Stress what attracts you to the job and why you feel

you would be a good fit given your personality and the analytical skills you do have. Be enthusiastic about what they have to offer and research the company thoroughly before you fire your letter off because there may be something in their mission statement or philosophy that makes you a better fit than you currently think you are.

[Evoman]

6. Great idea.

I'm going to go along these lines, but I'm tempted to add something at the end that I would still be interested in an informational interview even if I'm not considered for the position. I'm just wondering if doing something like that wouldn't immediately disqualify me in her mind.

[yellerpup]

7. I don't know how to advise you on that.

I'm not experienced in the job market and have only gotten one staff job in the past thirty years that I had to go through the interview process without having a personal recommendation inside the company. (I'm a freelance writer) I wish I could be more help but I do know that the more you know about what the hiring company is about the better chance you have. Learning enough before your interview to be able to discuss their company always seems to make a big impression. Go for it! Sell them on how great it would be to work with you!