We are asking for eight years of industry experience and you have just five. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?

"I may not have the desired years' experience; however, my experience does match all of your must-haves for this role. In addition to this, I have an elevated degree which accounts for a lot. I am confident in my ability to do this job well, and I am excited about the opportunity."

To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible, so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years! Instead, explain the value you would add to the school if hired as the new ABE teacher.

"Though I have fewer years of experience than your ideal candidate might, I still have a resume that I'm proud to call my own, and I think I am still ideal for this role. My previous job was in a school that had many challenges and, due to their limited budget, I constantly had to be innovative and creative and forge new ground with my students. It was hard work, but it taught me a lot about myself, and I developed a laudable reputation among peers and students. So I am confident I can take on the challenges of this new role and bring the same energy and ethic for my students."