How to Land a Job as an Overqualified Candidate

How to Land a Job as an Overqualified Candidate Rest assured, during every interview process, there are always candidates who dont perfectly fit the positions mold.But what if youre too overqualified?Its important to stress how and why your skill set would be an asset to the company, but it can be difficult to convey this without seeming too far beyond what the job requires.Follow these Dos and Donts to help you find a satisfying job that offers new challenges, regardless of how long your resume is.1) DONT UndersellYour skill-set could very well be above what the interviewer is looking for, but that doesnt mean you need to leave anything out.Dont be afraid to list things outside of job experience.A truly qualified candidate wont just have expertise in the field, but a great personality and activities that could impress a hiring manager. Hiding any of your many assets could put him or her off and convince them youre not really a good fit, and this only moves your career backwards.Point out earlier experiences in which you grew and changed with a company, citing promotions or awards.This can prove your motivation to work hard in a lower-level position, without implying that you would be unhappy to start small.2)DO Be HonestIts most likely immediately obvious that you could be too heavy on qualifications for the desired position. This is not a bad thing. While theres no need to bluntly say you are overqualified, it doesnt hurt to point out the list of skills you have at hand, even if its long. Honesty in this regard could very well impress a hiring manager, and theyll be excited to gain an employee who is obviously a fast, intelligent learner.3) DONT Show DesperationIn this economy, its true that many job seekers could be searching below their desired positions, but it certainly wont do you any favors to point this out.Your interest in the position alone proves that you want the job, and its up to you to show competency. Your resume and cover letter can be tweaked to highlight key experiences relevant to th e position, as opposed to an extensive work background that, while impressive, might not be relevant.Be forthright in indicating how and why you will be a great hire at this particular company, without implying youre slumming it by applying.4)DO Be EnthusiasticA priceless commodity in an interview is enthusiasm. Interviewers immediately weed out potential employees who are less-than sparkling during an interview. Yourexperiencemay have gotten you in the door, but its your attitude that will truly stick in a potential employers mind.Explain life experiences relevant to the job, or moments throughout your working life in which you believe you learned valuable lessons.Animated, engaging people are a pleasure to interview, and you shouldnt be afraid to sell YOU instead of selling your skills.5) DONT Discuss Dollar FiguresThis may be the sorest of subjectsamong overqualified candidates. Keep in mind, just because youve made more money than you are currently seeking doesnt make you the perfect candidate.Always steer the conversation towards skills and experiences rather than previous salary. If your interviewer seems concerned youre more of a flight risk in light of lower pay, point out your history of loyalty or longevity at previous companies.A Harvard Business Reviewarticlecites a study proving overqualified candidates often out-perform their counterparts, and have no greater quit rate than co-workers of more limited experience.Deeming the desired job a satisfying challenge rather than a temporary fix can help assuage the interviewers fears.6) DO Try Your Best To Find a Fitting PositionFinding a job is hard enough, finding one that is perfect is near impossible. Do your best to seek out jobs that match up with your resume as much as possible, while also avoiding the desire to settle for something that could be unsatisfying to you.Your experience may be at a higher level than that desired by a young startup, but your skills can help any manager. A great employe r will want to surround themselves with expertise that will make their team look great.Conversely, aiming outside of an industry relevant to your previous employment could get your resume tossed outright. Perhaps youll get an interview for a job with lower pay than youre used to, but an employee who works hard to meet challenges can quickly rise through the ranks.Connect with Pamela Skillings on Google+