Discriminated against for being over qualified?

Over the last three months I’ve applied for 3 roles, been thanked for my application, but told they won’t be going any further as I am ‘overqualified for the role’. One was for a charity with whom I have a personal connection, the other two were small - but growing - companies who I felt I could really help. I am now wondering how many others there have been who agreed with but didn’t voice this opinion.

I made it clear - or thought I’d made it clear - that I wanted to work locally, that I understood the role’s requirements and salary, and that I wanted to feel I was making a difference rather than just being a small cog in a big machine, but no joy. I’m now feeling, to be honest, discriminated against big-time!

I don’t want to have to have long commutes for the foreseeable future - yes there’s the pay and associated benefits but my wellbeing and quality of life is worth more to me. Any ideas on how to sell ‘being overqualified’ as a benefit to the employer?

Thanks.  

Parents
  • Hi Teresa
    I think I would agree with Keith here, it is probably just an easy thing to do to say that you are overqualified. Dare I say it, but imo it is about the age sometimes too, not that I am saying that you are old! I agree too with Julie, it is very hard not to take it personally. From my experience, I have had most luck with direct applications too, and an application form so you can tailor your experience to the job spec, with as much or as little detail as you like. I am sure you will find something, and with you on the commuting, it is exhausting.
  • I sincerely hope it isn't that! We can't win as women; we're either too young and there's a risk we'll go off and have babies or we're too old!!
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