ESS Candidate Newsletter – SEPTEMBER 2024
Columbus, OH – SEPTEMBER 2024
In this month’s, ask the recruiter, we talk about why being overqualified is a bad thing
Introduction – Aaron Wandtke
Recently Filled Jobs
Ask the Recruiter – “Why am I rejected when I am overqualified for the role?”
Introduction:
(Our thoughts are with the people and businesses recently impacted by Hurricane Helene last week)
It’s amazing to think we are in the fourth quarter, which means holidays are just around the corner. The fourth quarter tends to be one of our busiest quarters. Contrary to the belief that things slow down after Thanksgiving, each year, we find more and more companies scrambling to hire someone before January 1. If you find yourself in that situation, let us know if there is anything we can do to help you with your process.
This also is the time of year when companies are sprinting to the finish line. Vacations are over and people are locked to achieve the goals they set earlier in the year. If you find yourself needing help to achieve those goals, please let me know. Recently, more companies have turned to ESS to find them a consultant to help manage the workloads. If you would like to be a consultant or if your company works with consultants, please let me know.
Ask the Recruiter – “WHY AM I REJECTED WHEN I AM OVERQUALIFIED FOR THE ROLE?”
This is a common question people ask when they are looking to take their career in a different direction or maybe want less responsibility. Regardless of the reason, there may be a time when you want to apply for a job you know you are overqualified for. Below are suggestions to help build your case:
- Cover letter and resume – The cover letter to explain why this career move makes sense and why you are enthusiastic about this change. The resume should be customized bringing out the specific traits you know are required for this role.
- Bring it up in the interview – In sales, if you know the objection, you should bring it up and talk about it. If you know the concern is that you are overqualified, you should proactively bring it up and explain why this move makes sense. This allows you to clarify your thoughts and it allows them to ask any follow-up questions they may have.
- Confident and willingness to learn – Confidence in your ability to bring your experience to a new company and continue your learning should be communicated. Coming off as an expert and unwilling to learn and try new things will hurt your candidacy.
We see people change jobs for reasons that make sense to them. On paper, we may not see it and we often must explain it to the employer for them to understand and be willing to do a first interview. Modifying your cover letter, resume and approach are all things that will help you get a fair evaluation during the process.
I can be reached at 614-885-8490 or by e-mail at aw@ess123.com.
