Over-Qualified for the Job

by Kelly
(Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada)

I am applying for a job that I am over qualified for in terms of education and experience. I've been told that this could be a liability to me being hired.

Should I omit some of my education and experience from my resume?


Kelly,

Make sure to change your mind set. You are not “over qualified” you are “highly experienced”. That being said, your resume should always be tailored to the job you are applying for.

This does not necessarily mean “omitting” your education or experience. It does mean that you should stress your experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

The only times being “highly experienced” is a liability is:

1- If the employer feels that this will be an “interim” job until your find something more suitable to your qualifications.

2- The employer feels that your salary requirements will be out of scale with the job position.

3- The manager may be intimidated by your experience.

4- When “over qualified” may mean “too old” for the position.