You've found the perfect Job – it fits your salary requirements, puts you on the right career path, seems like an excellent place to work – but then you scroll down and read the qualification requirements only to find out you're not exactly what they're looking for. Job descriptions aren’t typically written with the specific intent of being impossible to fill; it just looks that way. You may not fit the job description to a tee, but if you present yourself the right way, you can snag that job that’s slightly out of reach.

Apply your previous experience to the position.

Your first impression to the company will usually be in the form of a resume and/or cover letter. Use these documents as an opportunity to show how your previous experience relates to the job you're applying for. Show that your work experiences, responsibilities and skills are applicable to their position. If you're writing a cover letter, talk about how your experience will help you succeed in this new position.

Understand the job and its qualifications.

One of the most important parts of an interview is understanding the company you're interviewing for. You don't need to know all of the details, but having an idea of what the company does and how this position contributes to the overall mission will help you ask better questions and show that you have a genuine interest.

Emphasize what you can do for them.

Bring some ideas to the table at the interview stage. Talk about the direction you would take in the position, and emphasize how the skills you already have would benefit the company. This is your chance to show the employers why the position wouldn't be the same without you.

Use positive language.

This is essential when interviewing for a position that you're not sure if you're completely qualified for. Rather than using language like "I don't have experience with..." or "I haven't done this in previous positions," focus on the things you have done. Using negative language during an interview will bring the focus to what you're lacking, which is exactly the opposite of what you're trying to accomplish.

Be inquisitive and ask questions.

As with any interview, you want to know exactly what you would be getting into with a new job. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the position or the company itself. The interview is your chance to learn what you can about your potential new employer, so ask away – but steer clear of questions like "what does this company do?"