Dumb it down?
I was interviewed recently for an article on whether or not we should be “dumbing down” our resumes. The thesis was — if we’re trying for an entry level job or a job at a lower level than our last position, will we be passed over if the recruiter feels we’re over qualified?
Well, the answer to that question may be “yes,” but I can’t think of any good reason to modify our past experiences to the point of leaving out pertinent facts on your resume. My thesis is — you’ll get found out.
No matter how many qualified candidates apply for a position, any reputable employer will be checking references. So if I’ve under-reported my title or job responsibilities, those facts will come to light in the reference check.
So pick one:
- Take the risk of seeming over-qualified for a job?
- Or take the risk of being caught in a lie?
I know which one I’d pick.
P.S. I wasn’t quoted in the article. I don’t think I said what the reporter wanted to hear!
May 23rd, 2009 at 10:46 am
Great point, Melanie. You know times are tough when ideas like this are getting attention. Seems like a highly suspect thesis — should candidates also intentionally include typos in their resume so they look less over-qualified? Yikes.
May 27th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
I had a recruiter tell me once that I was WAY over qualified for a job that was offered for my consideration. The phrase “over qualified” doesn’t compute with me. If I need a job and I’m qualified for what’s being offered, I’m going for it. Work is work to me. Besides, if someoneis “over qualified,” that means he has the required skills and then some, so there should be no problem as far as that’s concerned.