Overqualified??

It is becoming more frequent in todays job market to hear about incredible candidates not being shortlisted for an interview because they are ‘over-qualified’ for the role. This is a bitter pill to take for the candidate (and the recruiter), but surely if the candidate wants less responsibility and a better work life balance, then they’re entitled to this and shouldn’t be judged on the face of their CV as being ‘over-qualified’.

From an employer’s perspective, their concerns with an ‘over-qualified’ candidate are that they may not hang around, they will demand a higher salary later down the line, they may not take lightly to being managed by someone with less experience. Naturally they are all valid but should give the candidate the opportunity to showcase WHY they might be looking for a change in career direction. It’s always best to look at the bigger picture.

As an employer, here are some reasons why you SHOULD give those “overqualified” candidates a chance;

1. Value for money

2. Enhanced skills and experience into the team

3. Increased productivity

4. They may challenge processes to improve efficiency

5. They can bring a fresh perspective to the team

Covid has thrown some career paths off track and has given some of us as reality check, rebalanced work & life, so why not go for that Head of Role instead of Director, or Manager instead of Head of. Yes of course there will be some financial repercussions of doing so, but depending on your outlook, life’s too short! We’ve all had to adapt and change the way we live our lives so this won’t be as much of a burden as it might have been 18 months ago.

So as a candidate, what can you do to make yourself seen in this crowded market and not be overlooked as an ‘over-qualified’ candidate? Here are our tips;

1. First and foremost, partner a specialist recruiter such as Gecko Travel Recruitment. As a qualified and professional recruiter, they’ll ensure your application is represented in the best way to an employer, explaining your motivations and that you are serious about this move.

2. Adapt your CV accordingly, drawing on your expertise relevant to the role whilst using the job spec or be guided by your recruiter. You may want to just put the company you worked for at your header and outline your jobs titles in a summary after your career history.

3. Dial down the language on your CV, normally you’re asked to use really strong words to emphasis your success. Still do this but toned down a little.

4. Offer a covering letter that will help you to sell your story and why you are a safe pair of hands for the employer, and that you’re not a job hopper

5. Should you be shortlisted for an interview, prepare yourself to answer questions on why you are considering a lesser level or paid role than before.

If you are concerned that you are being overlooked for your next travel job and you want some advice, then please get in touch with the Gecko Travel Recruitment team today.