I'm wanting to apply for a role with a PMO practise in a firm.Only thing is that they stipulate a 2:1 degree grade on their generic advertisment and I have only a Desmond (2:2).I've got good experience in programme execution and delivery with engineering and knowledge of PRINCE2 methods (amongst other PM toolsets). I could go on harping about my experience but I'll spare you that and get to the crux of the question.Is it worth adding in the covering letter that, although I don't have the requisite degree classification, I feel my professional experience is such that my shady past can be negated? Of course, as with everyone else, it was never my fault and there were mitigating factors outside of my control and so on, but unfortunately, I'm ultimately responsible for my performance.Decent answers only, no flippant ones even though it's Friday afternoon and the sun is telling me that working indoors sucks and I should have become a surfer!

My view is this.A CV is a brochure not a confession. So focus on your strengths. This means stress your relevant experience in CV and cover letter. You probably need to mention the degree but give it one line in small print near the bottom of page 2. Could even leave off the grade unless it was very recent.I would definitely not waste cover letter space discussing your weaknesses.At interview again try to ensure the maximum share of airtime goes on your strengths. This means be prepared for the degree question but try to bring it back to your experience rather than getting into any justification or defence that might extend the time spent discussing it rather than your relevant experience.

Consider this theoretical notion: Somebody misses a 2:1 by 0.1% at Cambridge. They have a PhD in Mathematics (from another top University). They see a role that they are barred from applying to because it stipulates a 2:1. Somebody else from a former-poly (that narrowly achieved a 2:1) sees it and applies. They get the job.Life can be absurd sometimes.Consultancy HR departments can actually be very understanding about this type of situation, although of course you don't need a PhD to know that a 2:1 is usually better than a 2:2!The least understanding tend to be the mass recruitment agents who would unfortunately often consider helping you in this type of situation as 'more than their job is worth' if 'the computer says no'. Professional headhunters are actually much less dismissive and see the value of relevant experience as something consultancies really are looking for right now. Have you considered phoning up to ask? My advice would be to treat each opportunity separately and steer away from the mass recruitment agencies as much as possible. The consultancy itself are most usually the best people to ask about their own recruitment requirements.And your other problem - get a well paid consultancy job and save up for a waterproof laptop with a wireless internet connection. You could take it surfing!

Degree was 5 years past, so will follow some of those pointers.What kind of qualities do you think PA will be looking for in candidates? Given that this is just to apply to their PM practice, do you know what their focus will be on terms of experience i.e. diversified projects, international experience, budgetry, macro level PM work?Any pointers are appreciated.