Creating Your Cover Letter When Feeling Overqualified

Posted by in Career Advice


Are you highly skilled in your profession, yet seeking a job that for which you are probably overqualified? It is never bad to come into a position already encompassing a boatload of skills. However, some employers are intimidated by applicants who they feel are overqualified, which means you may have your work cut out for you. If you know you have high qualifications, but think this could stand in the way of the job you want, you can use your cover letter to change minds. Let’s look at some ways you can get this done … Explain Your Motivation If you’ve been in a top position for many years, you may feel that it is time to lower your level of stress and get back to the basics of your profession. For example, you may have been the director of a non-profit for many years, working diligently to write grants and develop initiatives to bring money into your organization. However, the strenuous lifestyle has left you ready to step into a smaller role as a non-profit event coordinator, something that will offer time to relax and be with your family. While this is good motivation, an unknowing organization only seeing your background might question your decision to downgrade. So when writing your cover letter, it’s good to focus on how taking this step will offer fulfillment in your career – and life. Many hiring managers will understand your motivation, and appreciate you bringing your advanced knowledge to the table. Remember that Your Experience is a Plus By being overqualified, you’re coming with an overwhelming amount of experience – something the organization or company can truly benefit from. So when writing your cover letter, try to stay away from any verbiage that makes your level of experience sound like a handicap. Instead, try explaining some of the ways that your experience can enhance their mission. Take some time to research what they are striving for then incorporate your skills and advanced knowledge in a way that can present thought-provoking ideas for making a difference. For example, you can explain how as coordinator you would like to create events to entertain disadvantaged children, or bring in business professionals to help homeless individuals prepare for the work world. It’s no secret that your expansive experience gives you a wide and beneficial perspective. But letting them know that your only agenda is using that experience to enhance their goals could positively affect whether you’re considered for the job. Let Them Know You’re Not Going Anywhere When writing your cover letter, it’s good to assure the employer you’re not going anywhere. Some hiring managers may fear that with your experience they may fall victim to an employee “hit and run.” That is, you may depart prematurely if you get bored. Even worse, you might ask for money outside of their budget, or suffer from a superiority complex. None of these behaviors are desired by employers. But by highlighting your commitment to all previous jobs, you can express that they have nothing to worry about. Remember, being overqualified for a job is not the end of the world. So by focusing on your passion in your cover letter, you can overshadow any doubts prospective employers may have regarding your sincerity, and possibly secure that position you want.
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  • Forbes Dodge
    Forbes Dodge
    I believe the electronic submission helps the employer discriminate on the age question.I am 61 years old and can out work my youthful counterparts under 40. However, As a Chef, who has owned 4 restaurants, I find the work force primarily 35 and under. Also I only want a cooks job; not a Chefs job; don't need all the headaches and responsibilities anymore but don't know how to "dumb up" my resume to get an interview. Your comments will be greatly appreciated.
  • David D.
    David D.
    This article hits the point which I agree, place those advanced skills in application to what can be done to advance the employers goals and objectives. I have had reservations regarding having too many skills however I can use those skills to accomplish tasks which they do not have to train me to get and skills that will help get the job done faster and more efficiently. As a "symbiotic" relationship, one who is willing to be employed at a job he is very skilled is an advantage for both, they get a good work product and the employee does something he likes doing and is good at doing.
  • cover letter
    cover letter
    Nice Article
  • raj
    raj
    Very good advice. I agree that a qualified cover letter comes from the heart.  Also I would like to add that a hand written cover letter will work wonders, rather than a typed one. Of course, it needs to be scanned when e-mailed.
  • Connie
    Connie
    I would also like to hear a response to George's comment about a smaller salary.  I have been looking for employment in a different state, my husband and I have a retirement home there, where the salary bands vary by tens of thousands of dollars. How do you convince a potential employer that you are willing to take less?
  • george zeller
    george zeller
    An issue not touched in this article is salary. How to explain to a potential employer that you would be happy earning 40% less salary is a challenge. Another article on that subject would be welcome.
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