When a resume comes across your desk, or email, and the skills, qualifications, and work experience all match up exactly how you were hoping, of course you would want to bring him or her in for an interview.
Such a perfect match might end up being an overqualified match. When you realize this during the interview, there are a few steps you should take to determine the next steps to take with an overqualified candidate.
How Can You Navigate Overqualified Candidates?
Ask Insightful Questions
Once you realize that the candidate is overqualified for the position, it’s time to change the course of your questions. Consider asking questions to help move the interview in the right direction.
The Reason They’re Interested in the Position
Just because a candidate is overqualified doesn’t mean they want you to pass over them. There are a number of reasons why an overqualified candidate might be looking for a change of pace and two common ones are:
- To make a career change
- To strike a more fulfilling work-life balance
Their Career Goals & Aspirations
Understanding a candidate’s long-term goals can help you appreciate why they’re interested in the position. You might find that they’re looking to take this job initially, while also keeping their eyes on growth opportunities.
How They Feel About the Company Culture
Asking an overqualified candidate questions about company culture can help you determine if they will be a good fit at your company. Company culture topics you can ask about include:
- Company or team size
- Collaboration within the team
- Social and team-building events
Determine Whether This Is a Good Fit Now or in the Future
After discussing some of these factors with the candidate, you’ll have to decide whether the candidate is a smart hire for right now, or maybe when a different opportunity opens up at the company. Even though you might feel an initial reaction to end the interview or pass on an overqualified candidate, they could bring unexpected benefits to the position. Ultimately, an interview that includes some of the insightful questions above can help you make the right decision.
Find Candidates with the Qualifications You Need
If you need to fill open positions and are having a tough time finding the right candidates, contact Axiom Staffing Group.
