How to Convey You Want a Job Overqualified

Overqualified workers have difficulty finding certain jobs.

Employers have expressed concerns that overqualified workers are likely to leave a company, lack motivation, and are less adaptable to change. Some employers automatically reject older job candidates that they consider overqualified. Job applicants may be tempted to omit some of their senior work experience or college degree from their resume to get a job. There are still ways overqualified candidates can convey that they are the best fit for the job.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Emphasize the qualifications and accomplishments on your resume that would be appropriate for the job. For instance, for a public relations job, emphasize your marketing or customer service experience. Use the job description to show how your skills perfectly match the position. Focus more on accomplishments than previous job titles. Show any recent job training or skills that demonstrate that you are up-to-date on the latest trends or technologies.

2. Anticipate questions about career goals. Hiring managers concerned about overqualified candidates leaving the company will likely ask a lot of questions during the interview about the candidate's interest in the position, their organization, and career goals. Overqualified candidates should convey to the employer how the position aligns with their longer-term career goals.

3. Explain to the hiring manager why you would be a good fit for the company. According to the CIO.com website, overqualified candidates should make it clear to the hiring manager that they will get more knowledge and experience for the money than the average candidate. Job candidates should give reasons why the job would benefit them personally and professionally.

4. Let the employer know that salary is not the top priority. Previous earnings should not be relevant to your current job search when applying for a lower-level position. Since many employers believe overqualified candidates will leave for a higher paying job, it is necessary to stress that you are flexible about salary.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not downplay your experience on a resume. Since employers can find out about a job seeker's work history, education and credentials online, it is best to be truthful. Employers may consider candidates that misrepresent credentials to be dishonest and question your integrity.

References

• LegalWorkplace.com; "Is Overqualified A Code Word For Over The Hill"; 2009
• CIO; "Job Search: What to Do When You're Overqualified"; Meridith Levinson; June 2010

Resources

• Careerbuilder.com; "What to Do When You're Labeled 'Overqualified'"; Rachel Zupek
• MarketWatch; "Overqualified? Don't let that stop you" ; Ruth Mantell; March 2010
• Quintessential Careers; "Fighting the Overqualified Label"; Randall Hansen
• The Ladders; "Getting the Job When You're Overqualified"; Sean Gallagher; August 2009