Post by @thecareerdecoded

If a hiring manager tells you you’re overqualified, don’t try to convince them you’re not or just reassure them that you’re okay with it. The hiring manager isn’t asking if you’re okay being overqualified. They’re trying to figure out: Will you be challenged enough? Will you be satisfied with the compensation? Will you stay? Will you leave when something at your previous level comes along? Why does THIS position make sense for you? Your answer needs to address the concern behind the question. If you’re moving from a Director/executive-level position: “I understand this position is at a different level than my current Director role, and I’ve thought that through carefully. Over the last several years, my role has become focused on strategy, budgets and managing through other leaders. What I’ve realized is that I miss being closer to the day-to-day operation. You mentioned that one of your biggest priorities is improving efficiency across the operation and developing the team. Last year, I led a process change that reduced turnaround time by 22%, while also improving retention on my team. I’m not looking at this as a step backward. I’m looking at it as a deliberate move toward the kind of work I want to be doing.” Don’t give them a generic reason. Give them a believable reason. Maybe you want to get back to hands-on work. Maybe you no longer want to manage a large team. Maybe you want less travel. Maybe you’re changing industries. Whatever your reason is, it needs to be true. If stepping back is your goal, own it. But also consider lateral moves or the next step up with another organization. You may find yourself getting more interviews. One more thing: Be intentional about how you talk about your experience throughout the interview. Keep your answers focused on your most recent and relevant experience. If you have 20+ years of experience, you don’t need to walk the hiring manager through your entire career. Use the experience that is most relevant to what this hiring manager needs today. You’re positioning it. #interview #job #careeradvice #jobsearch #hiring