Is “Overqualified” Underrated?

May 25, 2011
Is “Overqualified” Underrated?

It’s a common misconception that hiring overqualified employees is a risk. They’ll get bored and are more likely to quit, right? Not according to new research revealing that not only do ‘overqualified’ employees quit no sooner than others, they tend to perform better.

“‘Overqualified’ is a myth – you’re either qualified or you’re not,” says Maribeth Kuzmeski, author of …And the Clients Went Wild! and The Connectors.

“Employers think if you’ve got experience that isn’t required for the position, you won’t be happy in it.” But new studies show experienced employees work harder, longer and often turn out to be leaders.

What else do seasoned employees bring to the table? “They’re easier to train,” says Kuzmeski. “Especially for small companies, it’s costly to train new 

employees.”

To keep employers from passing over that lengthy resume, Kuzmeski suggests addressing qualifications head on – in the cover letter and interview. “It’s an elephant in the room that you have too much experience. Show them you’re not just applying for every job by explaining why you want it.”

Though the economy has forced many high-level job seekers to go low-level, some advise job candidates to proceed with caution, saying it may hurt your salary in the long run and hinder your ability to move up quickly.

Bonus PINK Link: Here’s how to navigate the new job interview.

and tell us about the “overqualified” job seekers you know!

By Brittany Hampton

“Never give up, for that is just the place and time
that the tide will turn.” Harriet Beecher Stowe