Workers spend years building experience and credentials, yet many now believe those same qualifications can hurt their chances of getting hired.
A new Monster report found that 40% of workers believe they have lost a job because an employer considered them overqualified. Another 45% say they have been excited about a job but worried their experience would work against them.
57% Would Remove Experience From Their Resumes
The concern is affecting how workers present themselves to employers. More than half, 57%, say they would remove experience from their resumes if doing so doubled their chances of getting hired.
Another 43% say they have already removed or downplayed something from their background. Older work experience was the most common, with 18% saying they had left it off. Others reported downplaying graduation dates, years of experience, accomplishments, advanced degrees, leadership experience or senior job titles.
Workers Think Employers Fear They’ll Leave
Workers largely attribute employers’ hesitation to concerns about retention and compensation.
Thirty-six percent believe employers worry overqualified candidates will leave for a better opportunity, while 35% think employers assume they will expect higher pay. Smaller shares believe employers worry experienced candidates will challenge management, struggle to fit into the team or become bored.
Some Experienced Workers Want Less Responsibility
Being overqualified does not necessarily mean a candidate lacks interest in the job. Among workers who would knowingly apply for a role below their experience level, better work-life balance was the most common reason, cited by 25%.
Other motivations included wanting to work for a specific company, reducing stress or responsibility, gaining more job stability, finding remote or flexible work, or changing careers.
