Your “Overqualified” For The Job!

Have you heard that word “overqualified” before?

Recently, I have heard this term overqualified being used, by radio show callers and personal friends.  At first echo, you might take the word overqualified as a delightful compliment.  Once that word rings in your ears a little more, you come to a realization.  Your ego is no longer being stroked, but ostracized from what was supposed to be your future employer.  Once that utterance has been delivered, you know it is time to rethink your strategy!

Being overqualified is generic and friendly way of telling the applicant, no way, am I hiring you.  The reasons may differ from one person to another, but they all result in the same conclusion.  Listed below are some reasons for applicants to be overqualified for a job.

1.)    Age - The potential employee is too young or old for the scope of work/office.  Of course you’ll never hear this direct answer, because age discrimination is against the law.  But, I would be willing to bet on this situation arising more than you might think.

2.)    Desperation - In a tough economy, jobs tend to be scarce in the employment market.  No matter, who you are, no one likes to see people begging.  Whether, it is for food, clothes, money, or work.  Just how we don’t like the “fake” bums with signs in the street, nor does a hiring manager like seeing one stamped across your forehead.  Did you ever get a date with someone, by acting desperate for a night on the town?  I don’t think so!

3.)    Cost - This is actually a legitimate reason to some extent.  Qualified and educated individuals generally get paid more for their knowledge.   But, this situation can be remedied through proper negotiation.

4.)    Inferiority - The “grand daddy” reason for most job seekers not getting hired in my belief.  The subtle and most ridiculous sounding reason, but is probably the most likely.  Job security is a natural fear amongst hiring managers who are interviewing possible candidates.  No one wants to out shined in their position of power.  Although, you would think a person with such omniscient could add great value to the team.  This is not always perceived in this manner.

If you have any thoughts on these rationales, feel free to comment in our post.  Also, look for my next post on how to counteract these overqualified perceptions, by hiring managers.