Communications of the ACM
What To Do When You're Overqualified
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Being overqualified for a job does not always give a job seeker a competitive advantage. Unfortunately, it can be more of a liability than an asset in a job search. With that in mind, the article highlights five ways to address hiring managers' concerns about your candidacy. While there's no doubt that overqualified job seekers can bring a broader range of experience and greater depth of knowledge to a role, they need to realize that many hiring managers view them as a potential liability. As a result, these job seekers need to show that they are interested in the long-range prospects for the position and that they will not pose a threat to other colleagues and managers.
Overqualified workers need to use the cover letter to sell themselves to hiring managers. All cover letters should explain why you're interested in the company and the position for which you're applying. If you know you're overqualified for the job in question, explaining specifically but succinctly in the cover letter how your experience makes you ideal for the position and uniquely suited to solve the company's problems is critical. If you're applying for a position at a lower level than you've previously worked, your cover letter should address why you're downshifting. You may be tempted to downplay your experience on your resume and to leave off various skills you possess and certifications you hold, thinking that a hiring manager might dismiss you as overqualified on the basis of your résumé. But IT hiring managers say don't give into the temptation.
From CIO.com
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