Do you ever...

Just browse job boards for jobs that are well above your level and apply just to see if you can get a shot? I'm looking to make a big jump in my career and so far I'm going to play the numbers game. I find positions that are what I WANT to be doing and in geographic areas I like and apply. Obviously I'm not going for architect level jobs, but ones I can really grow in. Might be scary at first, but once you get it then your set for those types of roles. I figure there's no harm and if I can get a call back I tend to do really well in interviews.

Just thought I'd see if anyone else takes this approach.

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Comments

MSP-IT

I usually look, but never attempt to apply. Entering the job search again, I'm applying for jobs I may not necessarily qualify for, but never too high. I'm interviewing for some decently paid positions (in comparison to what I currently make) for my experience level.

TechGuy215

I don't see anything wrong with shooting high as long as you can actually perform the tasks that are required. If you advertise yourself in your resume/interview with experience and/or skillsets that you don't have and get the job, you would absolutely get destroyed if you don't perform. I would consider it not to be a good idea, as it could be a waste of time and effort.

Only apply to jobs that match your skillset and experience, and that you are comfortable with being able to perform all requirements/duties to the highest level possible.

You have to earn a high-level job and salary with experience, performance, and a solid work-ethic.

dave330i

I make sure I have experience with many of the technical requirements. I ignore the years of experience requirement.

iBrokeIT

How far above your level are we talking? Got an example? Almost every IT job I've ever taken has been 1 step up in complexity, responsibility and salary.

bgold87

I'm not talking about crazy above, but enough that would keep me busy learning for awhile. I would never advertise that I can do something that I can't. My resume highlights what I can do and have done, and I'll elaborate that in an interview. I've found that I pick things up pretty quick, and am tired of getting into an organization and outgrowing my position in 6 months to a year and waiting for create/get an oppurtunity to move forward. So I figure if the learning curve is heavy in the beginning, and the employer is willing to take a risk then it could be a great jump.

QHalo

Why would you apply for a job that meets all your experience level? How will you ever grow? I don't switch jobs to the do the same thing again. I see nothing wrong with this as long as you meet ~80% of the requirements.

NetworkVeteran

bgold87 wrote: »

Just browse job boards for jobs that are well above your level and apply just to see if you can get a shot?

No, I tend to take roles near the limit of what I can achieve, but perhaps that's what you meant.

Might be scary at first, but once you get it then your set for those types of roles. I figure there's no harm

Getting in over your head and costing your employer and/or their customers millions of dollars can cause harm to your reputation. IT is a big industry, but it's not that big, and a demonstrated lack of good sense can follow you. Indeed, two people at my workplace attempted suicide in the past years, following highly-visible disappointments.

bgold87

@NetworkVeteran - Like I said I'm not shooting for Architect level, I'm not misrespresenting myself, I'm simply looking for a challenge. I like the way you put though, "take roles near the limit of what you can do." I should have led with that.

I just feel like if I'm only taking on slight challenges in way of my career then it's going to lead to tons of jobs and bouncing around. I read some of these threads where people take jobs and think their in over their heads, and get freaked out, but you dig in a learn it...inside and out. Right now I'm a Senior Desktop Support Engineer, but am performing as a mid-systems admin for my size company. I'm probably applying for positions that are a couple of levels above me, but I feel confident that I could cover it. I was just curious on other people's take.

Akaricloud

That's pretty much exactly what I've done my entire career although I prefer only targeting specific companies that I believe would give me a shot.

The key lies in being honest about what you know and enthusiastic for an opportunity to fill in what you don't.

ptilsen

I'll apply to any role I can reasonably expect to be able to actually do. Lately, that means almost any infrastructure role that isn't deeply specialized in an area in which I'm not extremely strong. I see no point in applying to something I clearly wouldn't be able to do without significant training or studying. I similarly see no point in applying for a job that isn't above my current level, other than to close a massive pay gap. I also don't apply unless I'd actually be willing to change jobs.