When applying for jobs, looking at the job description and list of requirements is a good place to start before you start picturing yourself in your dream job.
Rest assured, in this blog, we’re going to answer all those questions and more, as well as offer some useful advice if you think that you’re overqualified for a job.
What does it mean to be ‘overqualified’?
Being overqualified for a job means that you exceed the job requirements described in the job description.
This could be the amount of experience they’re after, the qualifications they’re looking for, or something like being proficient in niche, industry-specific software, but you’re only required to use basic software.
While you would still be able to do the job perfectly, you might find that your skills offer a better financial or professional reward elsewhere. For example, you might find that in another company, you could be in a more senior position that offers a higher salary.
Can you be overqualified for a job?
In theory, you cannot be overqualified for a job; if you can do the job, then you can do the job. However, there are considerations that you must keep in mind.
For example, are you going to be professionally fulfilled during your employment? It might sound great to be doing a job that you are more than capable of doing, but if you’re never exposed to challenges, it can lead to boredom and potentially limit further career progression.
From an employer’s POV, it can be tricky to employ someone overqualified because they tend to demand a higher salary to compensate for their skills. They may also be more likely to terminate their employment early if a position becomes available that better suits their level of expertise and salary demands.
How to know if you’re overqualified for a role
In order to progress professionally and financially, you must be in a role that allows you to hone your skills as well as develop new ones, which is less likely to happen in a job you’re overqualified for. Here’s how to spot if you’re overqualified for a job.
Firstly, are you taking a pay cut and a dip in responsibility in order to be there? At certain times during your career, this might be a good thing, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life such as family or hobbies, but if you’re looking to further your career prospects, then taking on less responsibility isn’t the way forward.
Another way to tell if you’re overqualified is if you cruise through the take-home assignment. The homework that a company gives you is designed to challenge you and give you an idea of what the job might entail. If you think the task was too easy, the job will likely be too easy for you.
What to do if you think you’re overqualified for a job
If you’ve read this far and you think you’re overqualified; don’t panic, there’s still a chance to salvage the opportunity.
Firstly, assess whether you actually want the job now that you know you’re overqualified. If you’re desperate to get your foot in the door at this company, or you’re looking to take a small step back from the intensity of a high-pressure job, then taking a job you’re overqualified for could be the ideal job role for you.
If, however, you’re looking to advance your career by taking a more senior role with a pay rise, then taking a job you’re overqualified for probably isn’t the best option.
If you’d still like to take the job, continue as you would for any other job. Talk positively about your skills and experience, being sure to back up everything with examples of your work.
Taking a job that you’re overqualified for can be a positive move, depending on your intentions for your career. Being happy, fulfilled, and paid well can be ideal for those who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a senior role, and that can be achieved by seeking jobs that, on paper, you are overqualified for.
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