"What to Do When You’re Overqualified for a Job?"

You need a job. You find one you could do in your sleep. But now they’re worried you’re overqualified.

Here’s how to handle it.

Why Employers Worry

When they see overqualified candidates, employers think:

• “They’ll get bored and leave”
• “They’ll want more money than we can offer”
• “They’ll be frustrated taking direction”
• “They’re desperate – what’s wrong with them?”

Your job is to address these concerns without being asked.

Be Upfront About Why

In your cover letter or early in the interview, explain why you’re interested:

• “I’m looking to reduce my stress/hours after years in demanding roles”
• “I want to move into this industry and I’m willing to start where I need to”
• “This company’s mission matters to me more than title”
• “I’m relocating and want to establish myself locally”

A genuine reason reassures them you won’t jump ship in 3 months.

Adjust Your Resume

You can de-emphasise seniority without lying:

• Use functional titles rather than impressive ones
• Focus on skills relevant to the role, not your full scope
• Don’t list every achievement – just relevant ones

You’re not hiding your experience; you’re emphasising relevance.

Address Salary Directly

They’re worried you’ll want too much. Address it:

“I understand this role has a specific salary band. I’m comfortable with that – the opportunity is more important to me than maximising salary right now.”

Show Genuine Interest

If you seem lukewarm, they’ll assume you’re just filling time until something better comes along.

Research the company. Ask good questions. Explain specifically what attracts you to this role.

Know When to Walk Away

Sometimes a role really is too junior. If you’ll genuinely be frustrated and bored, don’t take it. That’s bad for everyone.

Taking any job out of desperation usually leads to being back on the market within a year.