Is there actually such a thing as being overqualified for a job? As it turns out, Thrivas, a leader among staffing agencies in Tampa FL, has found that our clients feel there is such a thing. As you learn how to answer interview questions, you’re going to discover that if this statement comes up during your interview, there are two things you need to keep in mind.
In the first place, this isn’t the interviewer being nice. If you’re not qualified for the job, the company isn’t going to be looking to soften the blow. They’re not going to be caustic about it, but they’re not going to go to any great lengths to spare your feelings.
In the second place, being told you’re overqualified for job does not mean you’re sunk. There are indeed interview answers that can be utilized in this situation. There are things you can say that will not only keep you in the hunt, but quite possibly increase your chances of being hired. Learning how to answer interview questions goes well beyond simply knowing what to say. You also need to learn when the time is right to say the things that are going to impress employers, and bring you that much closer to getting the job you’re after.
Being Overqualified
In order to avoid losing out because you’re apparently overqualified for the job, there are things you can do before and during the interview. There are also interview answers that can steer things away from this topic, if it seems like things are getting close to that suggestion, or if the interviewer has already said it.
Keep these tips in mind if you would like to avoid or overcome the “overqualified for the job” interview obstacle:
- Stay away from jobs that are well below your qualifications. Unless you absolutely have no choice, avoid job interviews for positions that are dramatically below you current experience level/salary range.
- Make it clear in the interview that you’re not just looking for a temporary position. Interviewers can become concerned that an applicant is only looking at the job as a means of tiding them over, until something better comes along. Throughout the interview, do not give the interviewer any reason to consider this possibility.
- If the overqualified for job statement does come up, relax. Use the opportunity to calmly and confidently explain why the job is by no means beneath you. Mention the challenges and responsibilities within the position that appeal to you.
- Ask for clarification. If the issue comes up, simply and very politely ask for details, then address those details appropriately.
Thrivas staffing agency hopes this helps!
Find a job by searching below
- Travel Nuclear Medicine Technologist - PET/CT - $3,037 per week
GHR Healthcare - Travel — Columbus,OHGHR Healthcare - Travel is seeking a travel Nuclear Medicine Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: Nuclear Medicine Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional...
- Stockroom Associate (ID #512988)
PARTNERS PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT — Columbus,OHColumbus, OHColumbus Oh 3100$17.00/Per HourStockroom Associate* Job Description* Branch DetailsJob Title: Unloader/LoaderSchedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 11:00 AM - 7:30 PMPay: $17.00/hourLocation: [Insert Location]Job Summary:We are looking for...
- Server (Independent Living) - As Needed
Friendship Village of Dublin — Dublin,OHJoin a team dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of our community. Our Mission at Friendship Village of Dublin is "To care for, engage, and inspire our...
- Information Systems Security Officer, AD&S
Anduril Industries — Ashville,OHAnduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the...
- Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift
Abbott Laboratories — Columbus,OHAbbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses...
- Early Morning Shift Crew Member
Dunkin — Columbus,OHHere at Dunkin' we'll teach you life skills from day one - whether Dunkin' is your first job or you're making it your career. You'll be surrounded and inspired by...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,875 per week
Access Healthcare — Columbus,OHAccess Healthcare is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: 07/13/2026 Duration:...
- Dishwasher - DraftKings Sports & Social Columbus
Sports & Social — Columbus,OHLive! Hospitality & Entertainment is bringing it's first Draftkings Sports & Social to the Columbus area (opening Summer 2024). Draftkings Sports & Social will deliver an immersive sports entertainment and...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,714 per week
Host Healthcare — Columbus,OHHost Healthcare is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: 06/29/2026 Duration:...
- Cycle Counter
DHL (Deutsche Post) — Lockbourne,OHDHL Supply Chain is Hiring! At DHL, you will play a part in one of the world's most essential industries. There has never been a better time to join DHL...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,400 per week
GHR Healthcare - Allied Health & Therapy — Columbus,OHGHR Healthcare - Allied Health & Therapy is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health...
- Sr Project Scheduler
Arena Technical Resources — Columbus,OHJob Title: Sr Project Scheduler Job Location: Columbus, Ohio Salary: $130,000 - $160,000 Compensation Package Subsistence of up to $3,000/month Relocation Reimbursement up to $10,000 Performance...
- Terminal Associate
Heidelberg Materials US — Columbus,OH**About Us**Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.**What...
- Full Time - Merchandising Service Associate - Day
Lowe's — Columbus,OHYour Impact at Lowe's As a Lowe's Merchandising Services Associate, you are a key connection point between Merchandising and Store Operations, allowing us to deliver a great shopping experience in...
- 83.0554
Hobby Lobby — Columbus,OHJob Description - OverviewHobby Lobby is seeking organized, customer service oriented people to join our team as a Framer. We need enthusiastic individuals who are motivated, responsible, and have the...
- Retail Merchandise Associate Part Time
TJX — Grove City,OHTJ MaxxAt TJX Companies, every day brings new opportunities for growth, exploration, and achievement. You'll be part of our vibrant team that embraces diversity, fosters collaboration, and prioritizes your development.
- Customer Service Associate I
Family Dollar — Columbus,OHWeu2019re seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience for every customer. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following: + Assist...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,453 per week
Trustaff Allied — Columbus,OHTrustaff Allied is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: 07/13/2026 Duration:...
- Airship Crew
Goodyear — Columbus,OHAs an Airship Crew member, you will play a key role in supporting the safe and efficient operation of the Goodyear Blimp while traveling nationwide. You will contribute to all...
- Cleaning Crew
Pins Mechanical — Columbus,OHAbout Pins Mechanical Co. Pins Mechanical Company & 16-Bit Bar+Arcade is a social gathering place that offers a playful alternative to a traditional night out. Whether it's duckpin bowling, pinball,...
- Warehouse Associate - Lockbourne, OH
Bath & Body Works — Commercial Point,OHDescriptionAt Bath & Body Works, everyone belongs. We are committed to creating a culture of belonging focused on delivering exceptional fragrances and experiences to our customers. We focus on recruiting,...
- Forklift Operator
Kelly Services — Columbus,OH**At Kelly®, we're passionate about helping you find a job that works for you. How about this one?** We're seeking a Tugger Operator ( PIV ) to work at a...
- Technical Account Manager SME
QUALYS — Columbus,OHCome work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world! The Technical Account Manager is in charge of managing the...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,491 per week
Malone Healthcare - Nursing — Columbus,OHMalone Healthcare - Nursing is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date:...
- Prep Cook - Port Columbus Intl Airport-HMS
Chili's — Columbus,OHChilis - - Responsibilities: Properly execute all recipe procedures; Prepare a variety of foods with different methods of preparation; Follow company safety and sanitation policies and procedures; Complete assigned prep...
- Contract Linguist (all languages) with NVTC with Security Clearance
National Virtual Translation Center — Columbus,OHMission of the National Virtual Translation Center (NVTC) is to provide and facilitate timely and accurate translation services of foreign language material to the elements of the Intelligence Community (IC)...
- ServiceNow Business Analyst
Kforce Inc. — Columbus,OHRESPONSIBILITIES: Kforce has a client that is looking for a ServiceNow Business Analyst to join our delivery team in Columbus, OH. Overview: In this role, you will be responsible for...
- OPENING PREP COOK | CAMERON MITCHELL PREMIER EVENTS
Rusty Bucket — Columbus,OHSummary: Our Premier Events team is looking for a dedicated heart of house associate with a passion for cooking and genuine hospitality to add to our team! The Opening Prep...
- Travel CVOR Surgical Technologist - $2,497 per week
Arrow Healthcare Staffing — Columbus,OHArrow Healthcare Staffing is seeking a travel CVOR Technologist for a travel job in Columbus, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: CVOR Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: 07/27/2026...
- Travel MRI Technologist - $2,556 per week
Soliant Health — Westerville,OHSoliant Health is seeking a travel MRI Technologist for a travel job in Westerville, Ohio. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: MRI Technologist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: ASAP Duration:...
- No Experience Needed | Caregiver
CareInHomes — Lewis Center,OHApply for open caregiver positions today! Requirements * Be of legal age * Be eligible to work in the US * Be dependable * Have an active driver\'s license and...
- Server
The Avalon of Lewis Center — Lewis Center,OHJob Description When you work at The Avalon of Lewis Center, you have a front-row seat to the amazing life stories of the wisest people on earth. What's more, you...
- Vaso Server Assistant | Dublin AC Hotel
Shaner Hotel Group — Dublin,OHJob Description Be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and varied shifts. Ensures compliance with and completion of all daily operational procedures by the Food and Beverage...
- Store Manager
Citi — Columbus,OHAbout Citi TrendsCiti Trends is a leading off-price value retailer of apparel, accessories, and home trends dedicated to delivering great style and amazing brands at exceptional prices.We are growing and...
- Floor Staff - GasWerks, Columbus, OH
GASWERKS — Columbus,OHJob Type Part-time Description SISTERS & BROTHERS! Brothers Bar & Grill, Columbus, OH has immediate openings for part-time Floor Staff. Floor staff assist bartenders, check ID's and work...
- PT Dockworker- Inbound- 4 AM Start
Pitt Ohio Express — Grove City,OHOverviewPITT OHIO is a family owned transportation company with a long standing commitment to safety, service and respect for our employees. We are currently seeking individuals to join our team...
- Store Manager in Training
CVS Health — Columbus,OHWe're building a world of health around every individual - shaping a more connected, convenient and compassionate health experience. At CVS Health, you'll be surrounded by passionate colleagues who care...
- Warehouse Associate
cregger company — Columbus,OHThe warehouse associate will increase operation efficiency, company profitability and customer satisfaction by accurately and safely receiving and storing materials, as well as picking and packing for pickups and delivery....
- Early Morning Shift Crew Member
Dunkin' — Columbus,OHHere at Dunkin' we'll teach you life skills from day one - whether Dunkin' is your first job or you're making it your career. You'll be surrounded and inspired by...
- Local CDL-A Truck Driver Job - (Earn $1,350 - $1,550+ /Wk)
First Fleet — Westerville,OHFirstFleet is now hiring CDL-A drivers Local, Semi Local & Regional Route Options Available Find Your Local Terminal & Pay Rate: Auburn, ME: $1,400 - $2,100/wk...