JOB SEARCH 101: What to do when you're labeled overqualified

I recently read "What to Do When You're Labeled ‘Overqualified'" by Rachel Zupek on Career Builder and I know it rings true for many of my clients. I recommend you take a read as it gives some great suggestions on how to alleviate a potential employer's concerns.   This article suggests that maybe you'll get the chance to talk to the hiring manager or interview for a job you're overqualified for. Not likely with 300+ resumes for each opening right now. Since it's a recruiter's job to weed out people who are under and over qualified for a position and to find the right fit for the job itself, many will never make it to the point of an interview. In order to get the chance for a discussion you're going to have to start your planning earlier on.  

Sometimes "softening" your resume can help. You've probably heard that you're supposed to tweak your resume for each and every position you are applying for, right? Well a lower level position is no different.

Focus your resume only on the skills that are used in the job you're applying for. If it's an individual contributor position, you don't need to list all of your management and leadership experience and skills on your resume, since it's probably irrelevant. You may want to tone down job titles as well, since they are somewhat flexible.

Create the best image of yourself as a fit for the job.   Also, Rachel's suggestion on addressing the issue right away and coming up with a solid backing of why you want the job is terrific - incorporate some of that into your cover letter since it's many job seekers' only chance at having such a discussion.   Want more info?

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