how to handle being overqualified

I was wondering what everyones thoughts about being overqualified? I had a phone interview and I nailed it. He said the only concern was that he thought I may be over qualified. Money and benefits make the position worth it. I need to send a thank you letter tonight and was hoping to address it in that letter. Can anyone provide any recommendations?

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Comments

xenodamus

Normally, the fear associated with overqualified candidates is related to the fact that they are likely to leave sooner. I would address that.

Do you plan to stick with this organization for a while? If so, why? If not, then he's justified in worrying. He needs to know that you will be satisfied with the position you are hired for - at least for a reasonable amount of time. If you see a future for yourself at this company, express that and explain why.

FloOz

Did you feel that you were overqualified when you read the job description?

Master Of Puppets

I would just be honest. I'm with xenodamus - if you're happy with the pay, the benefits and the company as a whole and are not planning on leaving after 2 months, it shouldn't be a problem. If not, probably look for a different job that will also pay good but challenge you and develop your skills as well?

MeatCatalogue

If your resume shows that you are not a puddle jumper, meaning if you tend to stay with the same company for 2-5 years before "moving up" then mention that. I've had several interviews in my past where employers look for exactly that on a resume.

Hiring is a pain for employers and management. My current position had 150 interviews before they hired me. 30 minutes x 149 = 75 hours of interviews. I interviewed with both a tech lead and a manager. So that 150 man hours. If you assume the guys interviewing you make $100k a year, or $50/hr thats $4,000 they spent just finding you. So time, money, energy, etc. Overqualified candidates make hiring managers nerveous for this reason.

NetworkVeteran

If your resume shows that you are not a puddle jumper, meaning if you tend to stay with the same company for 2-5 years before "moving up" then mention that. I've had several interviews in my past where employers look for exactly that on a resume.

Agreed. The primary concern would be you jumping ship when you received a better offer precisely matching your qualifications. The first three months of employment are often a loss for the hiring company and past behavior is a good predictor of future behavior. Much better than words. If you have a history of staying at jobs for 2+ years, that would certainly help. Any other concrete reasons they wouldn't have to worry about you jumping ship, besides you just saying you wouldn't, would also help.