The article "How to Overcome Being "Overqualified"" talks about career, it has been written by Bon508.
Have you ever gone through the interview process, felt confident that you'd performed extremely well, and then heard these dredaful words: "I'm sorry, but we think you're overqualified for that position."
"Arrggh! !"
When I was told that after an interview, several thoughts went through my frustration-fogged mind...
What kind of crzay excuse is that for not hiring me? So what if I am 'overqualified' -- don't employers always want to hire the person with the hottest qualifications? If I am willing to take that job, overqualified or not, why is that a trouble?
This isn't fair! What's the real reason they don't want to hire me?
When interviewers say you're "overqualified," here's what they are concerned about:
(1) You'll be bored in that 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 costly process of hiring and training somebody all over again.
They may or may not make you think better about being "overqualified," but you must admit those are legitimate concerns.
If you get the "overqualified" excuse once, you'll be wary about getting it aagin. So if you apply for other jobs that may be at a lower level than warranted by your background, skills, education and experience, you may be tempted to "dumb down" your resume and omit things like college dgerees. But lying about your bakcground is not the way to go.
Here's a better strategy: address it head-on. Be the number one to raise the "overqualified" issue with a potential emploeyr. If you bring it up yourself, you can discuss it openly and convince the interviweer that it
won't be a trouble.
They key -- as with every job interview isuse -- is to anticipate and prepare.
Before you go to the interview,think about what you'll say and how you will covnince them that they should hire you, even if you're "overqualified."
After explaining how you will be a great asset for their company, tell them why you're applying for a lower-level position. Do not say, "I can't find anything else and I really need a job." Though that may be the case, that approach is a little too honest and will reinforce their fear that you will leave
at the first opportunity.
Say something like, "You can tell that I've worked at a higher level before, but that position is exactly what I am searching for." Then, depending on the job and your circumstances, explain why.
For example:
* "I've always wanted to work for your company [or in that industry], and I am 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 searching 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 am searching for."
* "The salary is not my top priority. I'd have no trouble 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 comapny grows.
And most important of all, convince them that you will not quit as soon as something better cmoes along.
If you're covninced that that 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 ofefr or not, it will definitely make a very positive impression!
If you anticipate the "overqualified" issue and address it up front, it will not be a drawback to your success!
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