What to Do When You're an Overqualified Executive

The job market is definitely suffering nowadays. With the recession forging ahead and thousands still losing their jobs, it’s a wonder that anyone can get hired. However, as some executives are finding out, there is work available. However, it may not be at the level they’d like to work. If you’re an executive who has found that you need to seek a lower-level job to get back on your feet, you’re not alone. In your search, however, you may have found the employers are reluctant to give you work because they know you’re overqualified. Why Employers Are Reluctant to Hire You The reason the employers feel a little bit leery about hiring a high-level executive in a lower position is because they think you’re not interested in sticking around long. Employers know that some employees need work and will accept a position just for the money with no intention of excelling within the company. For obvious reasons this is undesirable; however, it prompts many employers to decline higher-level applicants right away. Also, employers may feel more comfortable with choosing exactly who matches a position because they have the advantage of having a large applicant pool during this recession. With all of these odds against you, how can you get the job anyway? Repackage Your Experience If you are applying for a position that is obviously below your level of experience, you may have to repackage your experience to focus more on what the company is looking for than what you have accomplished. It may be incredibly tempting to brag about all of your accomplishments as an executive, but, since an executive isn’t what the employer is looking for, it’s up to you to refocus your attention so that it pinpoints skills you have that match the lower-level position. Reiterate Your Intentions If you are looking for a position at a lower level because you are interested in switching careers and gaining experience in a new area, there is nothing wrong with this. For this reason, explain your intentions in your cover letter since it’s often difficult to hide all of your previous experience. Also, it may be that you’re moving toward retirement and would like a position that will allow you to spend more time with your family while still participating in a fulfilling career. This can be viewed as an admirable feat by a prospective employer, so don’t be shy about disclosing it. Don’t Let Rejection Deter You As mentioned previously, there will be some employers that are simply against the idea of hiring someone grossly overqualified for a position, but don’t let rejection deter you. Keep doing what you’re doing with confidence. It will pay off in the long run. While you may be applying for jobs that will result in pay and responsibility cuts, if you feel good about what you’re doing, it will show as you apply. Being overqualified is only a testament to your hard work over the years, so apply with confidence to secure the job you want.