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Vickie's VIEWS |
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August 2009
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There is a message in my voice mail from a viewer whose hopes of finding a job were dashed once again today. Her name will remain anonymous, but she represents so many of our neighbors who are being told over and over again, "You're overqualified". Since when do we not want a bargain. How many of us are not looking to have more for less? I just bought bell peppers because they were on sale; I'll figure out what to cook later. The caller's voice cracked under the weight of more rejection. And she says to add insult to injury, she had been told she was "too polished". Does that mean she should have dressed in a tank top and flip flops? Printed her resume on a cocktail napkin? I mean, really. What's my beef, you're asking. Since we started our "Ready to Work" series, I have met dozens of smart, good people who want to work. Sure, times are hard. But imagine how frustrating it must be to look for a job for months, finally land an interview, and after shining your spiel for the human resources spotlight, all you hear is: "You're overqualified". Not..."Uh, listen...we see a lot of potential. You have a lot of the qualities we want on our team. And this is hard to say, but we wish you spoke six more languages, had experience managing hedge funds, and typed 200 words a minute." That...you can live with! It gives you a few things to work on. But, "Uh, you're just too good for us"? Sounds like a lame way to deflate someone who might very well be on the other side of your interview some day.
7 CommentsLeave a comment |
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Vickie,
I can certainly sympathize with your viewer. My daughter graduated with a degree in graphic design in May 2008 - 15 months ago. She worked extremely hard, working 2 part time jobs while going to school full time and graduating at the top of her class. She is still working 2 part time jobs, hating every minute of it, and applies for every job opening she sees. She has applied to be a receptionist but there doesn't seem to be anything out there. I'm afraid her self esteem is slipping. We appreciate you trying to make a difference.
Terri
I was told at a local Walmart (off the record of course) that they would not hire me because I was over qualified for a position there and would most likely leave if I found a better job. Of course that was probably true but I really doubt giving me a chance to become a contributing part of society again would overly affect the statistics if I were to leave. As a Walmart stockholder I know the turnover at Walmart, Kmart and Target is mouth dropping. All I want is a chance to work. I have been out of work for over a year and a half because I have been overlooked because I was out of a job. I really can't take the rejection much longer, it's really taking a toll on my mind.
I almost have a Ph.D., and I work at two different jobs, one that is related, but is part-time and the other not-related, is full-time.
I hear the over qualified thing so many times it gets old too, but I am thankful I do have jobs.
I remember having a discussion with an old boss of mine, she used to tell a story about a job waitressing she had when times were hard. She had her Master's and her co-worker had his PhD, neither had revealed that on their applications because they knew they would not have been hired.
I have always filed that bit of information away as a need to know if I ever find myself back waiting tables.
I think the practice is absurd, who doesn't want talented competent people, regardless of background. But, when times are hard, they can be that picky.
I am in the same boat I was unemployed for 6 months, went back to college will graduate in 2 weeks with a degree in Medical Billing & Coding and I can't find a job. I am over qualified or under qualified. The school promise me a job when I enrolled but when I was finish they told me know. I have been unemployed for 16 months and I am running out of unemployment and my self'esteem
is very low right now. There are just no jobs out there. I NEED HELP BAD!
I also think they don't hire me because of my age the older you get the harder it is.
Vicki,
I think you segment is great. I am one of the many viewers out of work. I have a many years of experience and a J.D. Many of these companies are not interested in hiring qualified, educated AA women.
It is sad when you interact with many of the HR personnel or lucky enough to get an interview. It is apparent that you could be an asset to the company, but that the personal interviewing you would certainly not give you an opportunity. These folks are viewing you as a threat...when you only want to be gainfully employed. It is tough, but I am still looking everyday.
Thank you and have a great day.
Vicki,
My husband is in the same boat. He has 2 master degrees, but hasn't found work in over a year. I told him he might want to "dumb down" his resume just so he can get an interview. It's really horrible. He's very depressed.