Avoid the Dreaded 'Overqualified' Label

When you read the job description, you realize that you have what the employer wants--and more. This is like shooting fish in a barrel! This job was created for you. You know that no one can compete with you on the basis of your skillset, education, and experience because your qualifications exceed the need.

But wait. Could you be OVER-qualified? It's possible. As markets contract and suitable positions become increasingly difficult to find, employers don't want to take a chance on hiring someone who won't be a good fit or who might get bored with the job and move on. They also don't want to pay a premium when it comes to salary and benefits. This is the conundrum. You have tremendous value to potential employers, but you may be too great a risk.

So what can you do? First, you should put yourself in the employer's shoes. Are they right to worry about you leaving as soon as something better opens up? Are you too expensive--will your salary expectations break the bank? Will you immediately demand a raise to get you to the level you wanted in the first place? Will you look down at your co-workers who have less experience and education?

If you are a good fit for the position, try to allay the employer's concerns.

1. Know what you're applying for. Before you apply, make sure the situation is a fit for you and the employer.

Try to find out what expectations the employer has and identify the type of work involved.

2. Determine whether or not there is genuine interest on your part and (if there is) convey that interest to the employer.

Don't tell the employer that you're "willing to do the job" because you "need the money." List the reasons you want the job.

3. Arrange a face-to-face meeting.

Try to convince the employer that you can be an asset to the company in ways that aren't particular to the position you're applying for. Even if you don't get the job, you will be on the manager's radar.

4. Tout your flexibility.

Convince the employer that you can move easily between different roles. Point to a job in your employment history where you made adjustments in responsibility.

5. Find a balance.

If you are applying for an entry-level position, tell the employer how the job would help you acquire new skills and experience. This can be particularly useful in the ever-evolving IT world, where new technologies tend to make even highly-educated people "entry-level."

6. Be a team player.

Highlight collaborative efforts on your resume and talk about what you've learned from others.

7. Don't overwhelm the interviewer.

Be as modest as you can without selling yourself short. Be discreet in listing your accomplishments. If you hold an advanced degree, mention it on your resume, but don't include details. Show the manager that you're willing and able to take direction.

8. Express your admiration for the organization--if it's genuine.

Tell the employer that you want the job because you want to work for the company, because you see an opportunity for growth.

Discuss growth potential and let the employer know that you see how the position could serve as a stepping stone to advancement within the organization.

9. Emphasize skills, not titles.

Create a skills-based resume and edit the language to focus on the requisite skills.

Instead of presenting yourself as an office manager, for example, promote your strong organizational skills and ability to act as a liaison between management and employees.

10. Make the price right.

If the company feels they can't afford you, demonstrate ways in which you would save or earn them money. Use examples from past experiences and ideas for innovation or streamlining in the new position to make them see they can't afford not to hire you.

But also keep in mind that you may not be able to reach your target salary if the company budgeted the position for someone less experienced, so determine your minimum salary requirement and try to arrange a six-month performance review.