Jobs (Part 6): Why so strict??

In terms of looking for psychological-related work, most employers tend to be really strict in making sure that your qualifications are of the required levels, and you may be even rejected without an interview, if you do not have the required qualifications in the first place.

Why is this so?

From a psychological point of view (rather than from the company's point of view), this should be done and is the right thing to do, i.e. to not employ people without having the right credentials and experiences. This is rather an ethical thing to do for the employers, as they are making sure that no harm be bestowed onto their clients.

According to the revised APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (2010),

2.01 Boundaries of Competence (a) Psychologists provide services, teach and conduct research with populations and in areas only within the boundaries of their competence, based on their education, training, supervised experience, consultation, study or professional experience.

So do not provide services beyond what you can do, and if you feel like you are not competent, make sure you can get the appropriate and required training, otherwise make a referral.

(b) Where scientific or professional knowledge in the discipline of psychology establishes that an understanding of factors associated with age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language or socioeconomic status is essential for effective implementation of their services or research, psychologists have or obtain the training, experience, consultation or supervision necessary to ensure the competence of their services, or they make appropriate referrals

As for the companies, do not blame them, and try to understand from their point of view..

(e) In those emerging areas in which generally recognized standards for preparatory training do not yet exist, psychologists nevertheless take reasonable steps to ensure the competence of their work and to protect clients/patients, students, supervisees, research participants, organizational clients and others from harm. 

In conclusion: Do no harm.