Too Much Experience For The Role
What to do if you seem over-qualified for the job
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There can be many reasons you have too much experience for a position.
Sometimes it's personal choice, e.g. wanting to improve work-life balance, other times it's not.
Either way, this shouldn't be a barrier to getting the job you want.
The key in this situation is to pre-empt the recruiter's questions, concerns or objections and have good answers for them in your interview.
It is critical that you can explain:
- Why you believe you are suitable for the role
- Why your additional level of experience makes you the ideal candidate
- Why you want the job
Maybe you're looking to spend more time with your family and therefore want to step down from an executive position?
Maybe you're looking to change industries and want to cement your skills?
You know why you are choosing to apply for the job, so make sure it is obvious to the recruiter.
If you're not sure, yourself, how can you expect to convince an interviewer?
They might be worried that you will accept the position as an interim solution and keep job hunting, leaving them in the lurch a few months down the line. Or maybe they're worried about how you would work with a line manager and peer group which is potentially younger and less qualified than you.
If necessary, phone the recruiter to discuss your situation before applying.
Make sure you pre-empt their objections in your cover letter - that way you're much more likely to get a job interview.
Be prepared to give convincing answers to these questions in an interview.
If you are worried that your age might be an issue, review this blog entry for more information on UK age discrimination law changes. |
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