Reprinted with permission © 2008 TreeTop Technologies
Being told that you’re overqualified is sort of like being told by someone you’re romantically attracted to that “you have a nice personality” or “I like you as a friend.” Often, it’s really just a polite brush-off. That’s not to say you might not actually be overqualified; it’s entirely possible. But often, the potential employer simply isn’t comfortable with you.
That could be for a number of reasons, including the hiring manager seeing you as someone who will jump ship at the next job opportunity. Or perhaps you appear to be hard to manage—someone who exudes an air of superiority or an older worker who might chafe at being supervised by someone 20 years their junior.
Such issues can be challenging for IT professionals who are, for example, simply looking to work less hours, have a less frenzied pace or shift to a different area of expertise.
In the May issue of US Airways Magazine, a career guidance expert advises potentially overqualified job applicants to look right, avoid overdressing and tone down “know-it-all attitude or power language.” Presenting yourself as humble, eager and enthusiastic about the job opportunity is key, he says, and you may need to provide a rationale for why you are right for the job despite extensive prior experience.
“Hiring managers who really are worried you have too much experience are going to want honest assurances that you aren’t just filling time while looking for a better job,” notes Doug Fowler, TreeTop Technologies’ Director of Recruiting. “Projecting that kind of assurance is easier when you make sure to avoid jobs you know are just placeholders or that might bore you. Also, confirm for the hiring manager that you actually read the job description and there is no misunderstanding of the duties and responsibilities associated with the position. Additionally, explain what you like about the job. This assures the hiring manager that you’ve made an objective and intentional decision and not a move out of desperation.”
Action Item:
Footnotes: From "View from the TreeTop" Volume 2 Issue 7 July 2008