Looking for a job is quite a challenge. You have so many things to think about, do and contend with, and you haven’t even gotten too far into the interview process. But for any jobseeker, one of the worst things they can probably go through is to fulfill all of the steps in the job hiring process only to be told at the end that they are ‘overqualified.’
Being told that you are overqualified for the job, is to put it simply, being taken to task for being too good for the job you’re applying for. It’s hard to accept because what company wouldn’t want to hire a person who can do the job extremely well and contribute other stuff to boot. When this happens, what can you really do?
For many people who have experienced this kind of rejection, it’s time to regroup and reassess how to tackle the job-seeking quest.
First of all, don’t ever get tempted to manipulate your resume just to make it look like you’re really not that experienced. Most people, when faced with the ‘overqualified’ rejection will usually go back to their resume and then delete certain skills, or educational training or job experience. Don’t do this because you’re just short-changing yourself. You may get the job but you’ll get one that won’t pay as much because the employer will think that you only deserve the salary of someone who is inexperienced.
Another thing you should remember is not to look too eager. Don’t give off the vibe that you’re desperate to get the job. The reasons are simple, first, the interviewer may think that you’re just an opportunity seeker who will immediately ditch the company as soon as you find something better. Another reason is that the interviewer will sense your desperation and may probably use it to give you a smaller than usual offer knowing that you’ll want to get it anyway.
Assess your qualifications and job experience. Try to find out why the interviewer thinks you’re overqualified. Usually this revolves around the fact that the job you’re applying for offers a lower salary than what you would usually get. If this is the case, then try to explain in the interview why you’re willing to get a lower pay to get the position.
Finally, try to talk to your former colleagues, friends and all the people who are part of your network. They may know of a job that is more suited to your capabilities and experience.
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