How to Get a Job When You’re Overqualified
In a tough economy, all jobs are hard to come by. If you’ve spent your entire work life in a certain industry, you’re probably considered an expert in your field. If that industry has been hit hard by the recent economic crisis, it’s time to take a step down from your career expectations and focus on your life expectations. How do you get a job when you’re overqualified? You focus on your quality of life.
Image by davitydave courtesy of Flickr
Live Your Dream
There is nothing more terrifying than suddenly losing your job. However, this is a good time to focus on you. How about all that personal stuff you’ve put off because work kept you too busy? Live your dream. It could be that an unfortunate layoff is the door you’ve hoped would open.
When you step out to find a new job, make this your mantra: Flexibility. If someone tells you you’re overqualified for a position, let that person know you’re making a life change, and that you’re looking for flexibility in your work life. Taking a step back, and reducing the stress that comes with job experience will allow you to do that. Let the hiring manager know that he/she will give you the opportunity to pursue a dream or two. That means you’ll be a happy and productive employee.
Apply with a Temp Staffing Service
Since you’re working on flexibility in your job pursuit, why not explore temp staffing services? There a many companies looking for highly qualified, temporary workers. Since the assignments will be temporary, your quality of life becomes your full-time gig. You’ll be satisfied in your work, but you’ll also have time to spend with your family, pursue your hobbies, and even try something new.
A good temp service will offer resources that will help you make a work/life shift. Since there are many job categories to choose from, you can explore using your skills in a new industry. Just keep an open mind and a healthy sense of adventure.
Your Time is Valuable
If you find yourself presented with the question, “Why are you applying for a position below your skill level?” Let the interviewer know that your time is valuable. You are taking the economic downturn as an opportunity to cut your work responsibilities and spend more time doing the things you enjoy.
Image by keithusc courtesy of Flickr
If you think that answer will send a signal that you’re unreliable, let the hiring manager know that his/her job opening is the perfect answer to your new work/life balance. Explain that you will be more productive because you’ll be able to replenish with personal activities. Then let him/her know that you’ll be rested and ready to grow with the company when the economy turns around.
It’s up to you to turn a tough situation into an opportunity, so start thinking about how you’ll take your experience and use it to change your life.
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