Over Qualified!?
Once again new to the job-searching lifestyle I have been running into an issue which I had never thought about- being "over qualified".
In my 25 year life I have been fortunate enough to experience many things, international travel, post-secondary education, and employment, volunteer, internship and paid. However, I did not think for a moment that any of these experiences would deem me over qualified for anything.
I am beginning to wonder whether this is just the new term employers use for candidates that they do not feel are right for a position. If this is the case, employers I would much rather know the real reasons why you did not choose me for a position. I would like to know how I can improve my resume, my interview skills and how I could become the kind of candidate you are looking for in an employee.
On the other hand, if I am truly "over qualified" why wouldn't an employer hire me. Is ther any problem in hiring someone like this, who may be able to help your company more than you could imagine. I could potentially be your best employee, coming up with new methods to make things more effective and therefore more productive.
In all honesty, perhaps employers are doing me a favour and realizing, for me, that I would not be satisfied in the position that they have to offer. But, I think that's a decision that I should be able to make for myself, if i'm so "over qualified".
The over-qualified scenario is a frustrating one and it could be a veiled attempt to turn you away nicely. But more likely, the employer anticipates that while you'll come out of the gates quickly, you'll also get bored quickly and have a much higher risk to leave. You'll also want to move up more quickly in the ranks and want a raise more quickly--all reasons why they want someone who is a better fit. But ask yourself if you're really overqualified, or if the opportunity is such a good one you can't pass it up. If that's the case, you can always go back and express your willingness and commitment to stay in seat for as long as they need you. Just be careful you don't derail your career on purpose.
- Susan Strayer is an HR and business professional, and former recruiter and hiring manager who has worked with hundreds of Fortune 500 companies. She is the author of The Right Job, Right Now due out in December 2006 from St. Martin's Press.