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You Seem Overqualified

by Jonathan on 4:40 am

 

Photo by Tom5 on flickr.com

Photo by Tom5 on flickr.com

 

 

I hear this as a frequent interview response – “You are overqualified.” One legitimate concern is that right now a lot of people are settling for “survival” jobs, where any job is better than nothing. A firm in St. Louis advertised for attorneys at $25,000/yr and was flooded with responses. So there may be the concern that you will keep looking and move on at the first better opportunity.
 

But be aware that being told you are “overqualified” may simply be a very nice way of telling you they simply don’t want you. It’s hard to be upset when told your qualifications are just so wonderful that it would not be fair to bring you on board. But now think about that: if I were looking for a computer guy, would I tell Bill Gates he’s overqualified. Or would I grab the chance to have someone of his caliber around if only for a short time?

In talking with hiring managers, I hear the stories about people who were “overqualified.” Often the real feeling is that the candidate is too “arrogant, opinionated, and condescending.” But no one will tell you that, so the politically correct response is to gently tell you that you are “overqualified.” Seldom is there a resistance to too much education, experience, or leadership skills. Try to get to the real reason you are not being offered a position.

 

 

When interviewers say you are “overqualified,” here’s what they are concerned about:

1. You’ll be bored in this position;

2. You won’t be satisfied with the salary they’re offering;

3. You’ll leave as soon as you get a better opportunity;

4. They’ll have to go through the time-consuming and expensive process of hiring and training someone all over again.

They may or may not make you feel better about being “overqualified,” but you must admit those are legitimate concerns.

So, what do you do?

Address it head-on. Be the first one to raise the “overqualified” issue with a potential employer. If you bring it up yourself, you can discuss it openly and convince the interviewer that it won’t be a problem.

Say something like, “You can tell that I’ve worked at a higher level before, but this position is exactly what I’m looking for.” Then, depending on the job and your circumstances, explain why. For example:

 

  • “I’ve always wanted to work for your company [or in this industry], and I’m willing to take a lower-level position to get that opportunity.” 

     

  • “It will allow me to use my skills and expand my experience in a new field.” 

     

  • “I’m looking for something a little less stressful, with fewer responsibilities, so I can spend more time with my family.” 

     

  • “This position provides the stability and long-term growth potential I’m looking for.” 

     

  • “The salary is not my top priority. I’d have no problem with earning less than I’ve earned in the past.” 

    Be very enthusiastic about the job. Explain how you can meet their needs now and in the future as the company grows. And most important of all, convince them that you will not quit as soon as something better comes along.

    If you are convinced that this job would be worth it, you might even try this: offer to sign an agreement stating that you will stay on the job for a minimum of 12 months. Whether the hiring manager actually takes you up on that offer or not, it will definitely make a very positive impression!

    •  - Source, 48 Days

     

    Jonathan is an Executive Recruiter/Career Coach that has successfully placed hundreds of Accounting & Finance Professionals. If you are currently struggling in your career, he is available on a limited basis for personal 1-on-1 career coaching and for resume makeovers.

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