Creating Your Resume When You're Overqualified

In a tough job market like we're facing today, sometimes we're required to get out there and apply for positions that we know we're a bit overqualified for. However, in order to put food on the table, we do what we must.

The only problem is that some employers are reluctant to hire candidates that they know are overqualified because they think they'll pull a "hit and run" as soon as a better opportunity arrives. In order to prove otherwise, it's good to make some key adjustments to your resume.

Redefine Your Level of Experience

Don't get the notion that you're going to have to lie to downgrade your level of experience. However, you may need to redefine a few things on your resume. If you can find someone to write professional resumes then you may be able to receive assistance. However, this is also something you can do on your own.

For instance, your job when writing your resume is to match your skills to the requested qualifications of the job posting. By simply pinpointing the experience that you may have acquired when you first started your job, versus the latest experience, you could appear a bit more fresh-faced than you are - not a bad thing.

Tell Your Story in Your Cover Letter

Once you've made adjustments to your resume to reflect the skills and accomplishments best suited for the job you're applying for, you could explain further what your intentions in applying for the job are in your cover letter. Unless you use a function resume, it's hard to hide the number of years you had on a job; however, if you tell a compelling story about why you are truly interested (thrilled, actually) to have a shot at the position with your years of experience, you may actually impress the hiring manager more than you think.

If it seems that you're repeatedly getting turned down for job opportunities and you feel that being overqualified may be the culprit, it's important to not give up hope. There is an opportunity out there for you and if you persist, you're sure to find it.