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Answering the “Overqualified” Objection

By Dr. Tom Nitzsche

Usually, when interviewers use the “It looks as if you are overqualified for this position” statement, it’s because they’re concerned that you’ll leave as soon as you find a position that fits you better. Since they have to invest a lot of money in training new employees, they’re reluctant to hire someone who they think will look at this as a “stopgap” position.

The first question you have to honestly ask yourself when applying for a position for which it can appear you are overqualified is, “Am I really looking at this position as a temporary one until the right one comes along?” If your answer is “Yes,” be prepared to be honest about this with the interviewer. However, if you really are interested, you must convince the interviewer of this. It can be done in one or more of several ways:

• You’re willing to take the position because of future higher-level potential.
• You realize that in a career change you must start at a lower level than you might be qualified for.
• The new position is much more challenging and interesting than your previous ones.
• The organization has good “growth potential,” allowing for possible managerial options in the future.

Assuming that one or more of the above are reasons for your willingness to take a position lower than one you are qualified for, enthusiasm and energy are absolutely essential in order to convince the interviewer.

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