How To Answer: “Aren’t You Overqualified?” In a Job Interview

One of the toughest obstacles to getting hired is being overqualified or being told you’re overqualified by employers.

You might hear it in rejection emails after applying for a job, in an interview question, or when you get feedback after your interview.

No matter what, it’s frustrating, demoralizing and difficult to overcome! To explain this further, here is a snippet of an email I got from a concerned job seeker regarding today’s article;

“Last week, I attended an interview for a Procurement Officer Position requiring only two years of experience. However, I have five years of experience in the procurement field. The interview went well until the Human Resource manager asked me, “Aren’t you overqualified for this job?

I completely went blank, which led me to lose the job. Please advise on the tips for answering this question in the future.”

Employers use this common interview question to gauge your thoughts as an interviewee. Their main concern is that you will get bored with the job as soon as you get a new opportunity. They may also be concerned that your expected salary may be more than they are willing to pay.

Here is how you can answer, “Aren’t you overqualified?” In a job interview and get the job:

1. Acknowledge that you might be overqualified

There is no need to hide that fact or act as if your knowledge, skills, and abilities do not exceed what they are looking for. Your honesty here will do far more good than harm.

2. Be open to discussing their concerns directly.

You can always provide examples that let the interviewers know how you feel about their objections and concerns over your qualifications.

For example, you could say, “I know that you may be worried that my salary expectations may be high, but the truth is, this job meets my current expectations for the work I will be doing.”

3. Give reasons how being overqualified will benefit them

You could say, “I can hit the ground learning quickly with very little training. I can deliver results immediately and be productive because I know what I am doing. I am also willing to help in other areas such as sharing my skills and coaching junior staff.”

4. Don’t show that you are desperate for the job.

You may be desperate for the job, but do not show it even when asked this question.

Many candidates say, ‘I will start any job just to earn money at the month’s end.’ Being willing to take any job often makes the interviewer disqualify you.

A perfect answer would be: “I may be overqualified for this position, but I am interested in it because of A, B, and C.”

A, B, and C are reasons you want the job but should not include salary. It could be because of growth opportunities or that you like the company culture. Keep your reasons as relevant and as professional as possible.

In Conclusion,

Answering can be tricky. Consider your response an opportunity to explain why you’re interested in the position, even if it’s a potential step down from previous roles. Plus, look to sell yourself as a candidate, showing how your qualifications will benefit the company.

Interview questions can be tough, but with a bit of help from professionals, you can be sure to impress. Book a mock interview coaching session to learn how to answer various interview questions and ace your next interview!