by Kevin Donlin - Guaranteed Resumes - Click for Info

A client recently wrote about a problem many of you face in your job search.

"Dear Kevin,

"I had my final interview with the Manager of XX Hotel yesterday.

"The meeting was all about how he couldn't believe that a person with my experience would be happy with the position, which paid almost $20,000 less than my last job. What kind of follow up letter can I write to him?"

In many cases, it's not so much that you're overqualified for a position -- after all, who wants to hire dummies? It may be that your prospective employer is simply "under-convinced."

But what can you say or do to convince employers that you're not overqualified, and thus, not a threat to quit after a few months on the job?

One HR professional, who requested anonymity, said this: "Employers may be concerned that experienced workers will be set in their ways, won't want to work for less money, or won't take direction well."

To downplay employer fears that you may be overqualified, point out that more-experienced workers can be more productive and require less supervision than many "kids" with a couple years' experience.

Another HR pro, this one a recruiter in the high-tech field, made this comment: "In some case, I've found candidates who may have a wealth of experience, but don't have specific skills needed for today's market."

To combat this, be sure your resume emphasizes any skills or training you have in cutting-edge technology or management methods. Doing so can make you look more adaptable and up-to-date.

Back to my client. I advised him to follow up with a letter like this:

"I understand your concerns about retaining the employees you hire. Please note that my experience includes a 10-year stint with YY Hotel, where I raised guest ratings from 72% to 89% favorable with a training program that produced results in 90 days.

"If you are looking for a rapid return on investment from the manager you hire, I am the person for you. I have succeeded in every prior position, and I am determined to succeed in any role assigned to me at the XX Hotel."

If you can remind employers that you're NOT set in your ways, WILL work for less money, WILL take direction and ARE up-to-date on technology, you'll go a long way toward convincing them that you're the right person to hire.

Best of luck to you!

Kevin Donlin is President of Guaranteed Resumes.

Since 1996, he and his team have provided resumes, cover letters and online job-search assistance to clients in all 50 states and 23 countries. Kevin has been interviewed by USA Today, CBS MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal's National Business Employment Weekly, CBS Radio, and many others.

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