It happens. Sometimes you are just overqualified. Maybe you really want to join the company or you just really need the job. No matter the reason, if you are applying to a job even if your qualifications are higher than required, you can still make it work.
Employers are concerned with hiring an overqualified person, as there is a higher probability that this person will leave for a better job as soon as possible. So it is the applicant’s job to address this and explain why you are truly interested in the opportunity and how you can deliver and commit to a long stay.
More than just too much experience
Before jumping into application mode, consider that hiring managers might label you as overqualified for different reasons. Aside from having too many years of experience it can also be that you’ve had too much education, or are too highly paid in a current or previous job.
As Dr. Randall Hansen founder of Quintessential Careers describes: “Overqualified is code for ‘will not fit the current position’ – and be forewarned that it is a difficult label to overcome.”
Hansen offers 10 specific tactics to overcome the overqualified label.
- Let your network speak for you. Find someone within the organization and ask them for a referral to the hiring manager.
- Focus more on skills and accomplishments than job titles. Optimize your resume using the employers own words from the job description.
- Take salary off the table. Make it clear that you are completely flexible about salary.
- Reveal financial advantages of hiring you.
- Emphasize teamwork and personality.
- Showcase current or cutting-edge knowledge. Discuss recent training or courses that show that you are up-to-date.
- Demonstrate loyalty. Point to your longevity with previous employers.
- Do what it takes to get the interview. Be prepared to deal with the overqualified concerns.
- Everything in moderation. Illustrate how you are the perfect candidate for the position without overwhelming the hiring manager.
- Express interest, admiration and enthusiasm. A positive attitude and passion for the job go a long way.
Most importantly, make a deep analysis of our personal reasons for taking on a job that may require less of you. Be honest in the analysis and be honest with the potential employer.