Discussion Thread

It seems like we often talk about how to beef up our resumes to get an interview for a particular position, but what if we want to do the opposite? Perhaps you are qualified for a higher level position, but you are looking for something that requires a little less responsibility or time commitment. For example, you might have a newborn at home or maybe you are caring for an elderly parent - either way, you might want a position with fewer hours (say part time) or with a little less responsibility.

How can you remain honest in your resume but maybe tone things down a little to keep from being seen as overqualified - and, therefore, not worth an interview?

------------------------------
Kelly Farabee P.E., P.T.O.E., M.ASCE
Savannah, GA
------------------------------

There is always a need for experienced checkers, drafters, estimators, and job coordinators.  Positions where engineers may be overqualified, but easily excel at.  This issue could be addressed in the cover letter.  Someone with vast experience who wishes to trim their resume can do so easily in a single page format.  Hiding a Masters degree or PE registration would be dishonest and a disservice.  If you have reached such a status of being considered overqualified for a position (or entire office), I don't think it would be objectionable to reach out to the principal directly in an email, phone call, or visit to drop off a resume.

------------------------------
Chad Morrison P.E., M.ASCE
Professional Engineer
Greenville RI
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-02-2020 09:19
From: Kelly Farabee
Subject: Resumes - how to avoid being seen as overqualified

It seems like we often talk about how to beef up our resumes to get an interview for a particular position, but what if we want to do the opposite? Perhaps you are qualified for a higher level position, but you are looking for something that requires a little less responsibility or time commitment. For example, you might have a newborn at home or maybe you are caring for an elderly parent - either way, you might want a position with fewer hours (say part time) or with a little less responsibility.

How can you remain honest in your resume but maybe tone things down a little to keep from being seen as overqualified - and, therefore, not worth an interview?

------------------------------
Kelly Farabee P.E., P.T.O.E., M.ASCE
Savannah, GA
------------------------------