The 'overqualified' advisor: 2 more ways to prove you're the best candidate

January 23, 2011 at 07:00 PM
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You may have already read the first part of ways to prove that, while "overqualified"–or, rather, "highly qualified," as I like to call it–you are still the best candidate for the position.

1. Ask about their concerns. If a hiring manager seems hesitant or repeatedly brings up your past experience, ask what his or her concerns about you might be. You may have explained how your skills and experience will benefit you in the position, how you'll be challenged, and told them about your goals for the position until you're blue in the face. But the hiring manager might still seem reluctant.

By asking, you're again showing you are proud of your achievements and you care and want to hear what he or she thinks. It's actually a great way to build on the relationship you have with the hiring manager, and it provides you with an opportunity to mitigate any perceived risks of hiring you.

2. Wear your passion on your sleeve. You have to squash the hiring manager's fears that you just need a job and are going after anything. You have to help the interviewer understand why your business experience is relevant–but you also need to let him or her see you have passion for the job.

Let the hiring manager know you're a quick decision maker, you can think on your feet, and you can manage many projects and the details that come with them. But realize the hiring manager also wants to know you will stay in the position long term without getting bored. That's why you have to make him or her understand why you will be passionate about the job.

The realities of this job market can be discouraging, but the last thing highly qualified candidates should do is play down their experience to get a job or avoid going after a job they want because they fear they might be labeled as overqualified. Connect hiring managers to the reality that you will be a great asset for their business.

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Maribeth Kuzmeski is the founder of Red Zone Marketing LLC, which consults to Fortune 500 firms on strategic marketing planning and business growth. Kuzmeski has personally consulted with some of the world's most successful CEOs, entrepreneurs and professionals. For more information, go to www.redzonemarketing.com.

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