You are good, but overqualified for the Job

Too Good?

What do you do if you're overqualified for a job? Take a slice of humble pie and start presenting a realistic, honest and very salable picture of yourself, one that an employer wants to buy regardless of your qualifications. Here is how to do it:

• Be clear about the job's specifications. It's critical that you understand exactly what the employer is looking for so you can concentrate on presenting yourself accordingly.
• Edit and tone down your resume so that it focuses on the qualifications the employer is looking for. If you're going after a project manager position, for example, avoid discussions of having managed complex billion-dollar projects if the employer is looking for a midrange PM who can direct projects on a smaller scale.
• Concentrate on your skills rather than previous job titles. Fancy job titles can be off-putting, and most employers--especially ones heading small companies--couldn't care a farthing about them. During the interview, expend your energy on selling your skills and why the company can benefit from them. Don't hesitate to go into great detail either. If you have a plan, system or technology that can save the employer a bundle of money, lay it out for them. I guarantee he or she will be all ears. The CFO and CIO might be invited into the boss' office to hear what you have to say. If that happens, you've scored a homerun. The game isn't won, but at least you're making points--and impressive ones at that.
• Don't mention salary. Let the employer introduce the subject. If the company thinks you're right for the job and being overqualified is no longer a barrier, the topic of salary will be broached faster than you expect. Throughout all the discussions, be laid-back and let the employer do most of the talking. Undoubtedly, you're going to take a salary cut, but if you handle yourself professionally and you also make a good impression, you might be offered more than the advertised salary. It happens often, especially when you're a deemed a hot property.
• Be humble. Most employers don't want haughty, arrogant professionals who think they're special. Demonstrate confidence in your abilities, but at the same make it clear that you're always learning, which is one of the keys to being very good at what you do.