When you think about it, securing a job really isn't any different to dating. You have your list of things you are looking for in a partner such as work culture, job security, and wages. Just as we have our "perfect date" criteria, so do hiring managers. We all want to find our company soulmate but what happens if what you are bringing to the dating table isn't enough, or perhaps too much?
It can be hard landing a job in an industry with little to no experience. We can have all the passion and eagerness in the world, but we just don't have the four million years of "necessary experience". It can be a rough time for many of us who are simply looking for that one opportunity to enter the professional world we care so much about. We research the industry, brands, and people. We scour job listings to see where we need improvement. We take extra courses or learn new skills, but it still isn't necessarily "experience".
At some point in our pursuit of careers, we have all encountered opportunities that we are clearly underqualified for, but what about positions where we are overqualified? It seems hard to imagine how being too qualified can actually be a hindrance to getting a job offer, right? You would think having extra skills and experience in your toolbox would make you an attractive option for employers. While some might consider swiping right on your resume, to others it can raise an eyebrow or two. Many employers have similar concerns when it comes to applicants whose skill sets and experiences surpass the job requirements. These concerns are all generally valid but some can potentially stem from assumptions and biases.
Here for a Good Time, Not a Long Time
Hiring, on-boarding, and training new employees costs a business its two most precious commodities: time and money. A company is less likely to hire you if you don't give them the impression that your ultimate career path is with them. Conversely, you don't want to lay it on too thick otherwise the hiring representative may question your motives. What’s your angle? Are you being truthful? Are you an insider for a competitor?
Snoozefest
Another concern for employers is the potential for overqualified candidates to feel bored doing their work. If you have years of managerial experience, are you really going to be satisfied and engaged starting at entry level? For local applicants, this question might have a little more validity, but many job seekers are new to Canada. In general, we are realistic and therefore prepared and willing to start at the bottom to prove our Canadian worth.
You're Not the Boss of Me
For some hiring managers, too much experience can raise questions of compatibility with the company. They may be worried that you won't take direction, respect positions, or learn new ways of doing things. Depending on the person hiring, there may even be a slight insecurity factor involved as they may think you are coming for their job.
As someone who is old enough to remember the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tiananman Square, and two Gulf Wars, I can tell you that it's not all doom and gloom. Sure, as an overqualified person you will face challenges in securing a job just like those who are underqualified. At the end of the day, whether you're an Under or an Over, the key is to be honest and to be yourself with your resume and at interviews. One day, the right person at the right company will open their doors to you, so be prepared!
One thing to remember is that everybody starts somewhere, including hiring representatives.
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