One of the worst things you can hear in your job search is, ‘You’re overqualified for the job.’ So, what should you do if a prospective employer says this?’
When your resume lands on the recruiter’s desk, they might think, ‘This must be a mistake. Someone with 10 years experience in Marketing and a Master's Degree could not want to apply for a junior role.’ Afterwards, the recruiter sends your application to the ‘reject pile’. Little did they know that you’ve had a rough experience looking for a job and just want a meaningful job with new challenges.
Job hunting is stressful, but having hiring managers turn you down because you are overqualified for the job is discouraging. You might think that this situation is out of your control. However, it isn’t. You can use a couple of strategies to land your dream job. But first, you have to understand why employers shy away from employing overqualified candidates.
5 reasons why hiring managers don’t hire overqualified candidates
1. The company may not retain you for long
The recruiter may think that you are only applying for the job on a short-term basis as you look for a position that fits your qualifications. Employers want to do all they can to reduce the employee turnover rate, and you are a risk. They don’t want to waste their time and resources on someone who will eventually leave.
2. The recruiter assumes that you will ask for a high salary
It’s safe to assume that anyone who is overqualified may ask for a high salary that they can’t afford.
3. You may not adapt or move faster in comparison to your younger counterparts
Well, it’s safe to say this is age discrimination. The employer may not say it outrightly, but your age could be a cut-off point for some roles. Some employers think older job applicants are rigid and not open to learning as the younger ones.
4. You will not be happy with the role
The recruiter assumes that you will be bored with the role you are applying for and they will not have a reward system that matches your interest. This is the case for job applicants who have experience in promotional roles.
5. You may not be a team player or work well with a less experienced manager
If your manager will be less experienced than you, they may assume you might not take their instructions. Your qualifications make you less likely to accept negative criticism and follow instructions.
4 tips on what to do when a recruiter says you are overqualified for a job
As you can see, most of the reasons why you might be seen as overqualified are just assumptions and personal bias. Being overqualified doesn’t mean you’ll never secure the job. It means you have to be more mindful of your job application and interview answers.
1. Explain your situation
If you take a step back in your career, most employers will label you as overqualified for the job. Thus, it's important to let the hiring manager know the direction you are taking in your career. Make it clear that you are consciously taking this path in your career at the time. Additionally, let them know that even though on paper the job looks like a downgrade, it will give you a chance to learn and challenge themselves in a different work environment.
Sample A: Cover letter explanation
I managed large teams and spearheaded large projects for years in a high-stress marketing industry. I am now looking to step back into a more supportive role and hopefully help you lift your workload in your managerial role.
Sample B: Cover letter explanation
After performing in a high-level marketing strategist position for years, I realized that my niche is the tactical aspect of marketing rather than the managerial. I am more interested in copywriting and designing collateral. So, I think this role would be my best fit.
2. Be enthusiastic
Other than explaining your position, you need to show your enthusiasm for the role. Make sure it’s clear that the job excites you. The recruiters should know what part of the job specifically makes you want to get up every morning and work.
3. Have a reasonable salary expectation
The recruiter already thinks that they cannot afford you as a job applicant because you are overqualified for the job. Therefore, you have to be reasonable about your salary expectation. If you are downgrading your career, it is only fair that you do the same for your salary expectation. Be clear about your expectations so the recruiter doesn’t assume the worst of you.
4. Link your skills to the role
Being overqualified for the job isn’t a bad thing. You have to let the recruiter know this by talking about your skills and qualifications and letting them know what you bring to the table. Show the recruiters that you are an asset to the company. Let them know how your background will help them.
Conclusion
All the tactics mentioned above will help you secure the job. However, they won’t protect you from the personal bias of a recruiter. You might do all these, and the recruiter may still mark you as overqualified for the job. So, how do you solve this? Networking within your field and making yourself stand out as a professional is the best way to avoid rejection.
