I'm continuing to have trouble finding a job, told I'm overqualified, what more can I do?

Question

I have a Master's degree, but have been out of work for nearly 2 years (funding cuts to programs). I've tried networking, am on several employment sites (careebuilders.com, monster.com, etc), and make a minimum of a dozen approaches (sending resumes, talking in-person or by phone) each week in my job-search. I feel I should list all of my education and employment histories (you sign on the application saying you've truthfully disclosed everything you've written), but employers tell me (perhaps rightly so) that they fear giving me a chance because I am overqualified and overeducated. They don't want toinvest in me accepting an "interim solution", only to leave if a better offer (finally) comes along. I have applied for positions far out of my field (even pooper scooper, for heaven's sake!), and have applied for jobs that would require 2 1/2 hours each way commute, but to no avail. I use my university resources, have great references and resume-how can I get work?

Thanks for all the input so far. I do have "tailored resumes", for different fields, and I have even applied to McDonald's, lol. I have a MA in Rehabilitation Psychology and a BA in Psychology, and am located about 1/2way between Milwaukee and Chicago. I have applied for more difficult or varied positions and have emphasized my (true) interest in learning and stretching my expertise, when doing so.

Answer 1

Your dilemma is very common these days. Just keep trying.
And Pray constantly, it doesn't hurt.
I Corinthians 13;8a, Love never fails!!!

Answer 2

First - everyone should have more than one resume - this will allow you to leave off your educational background for positions that don't require it, and include it for those that do. The other thing you might want to try is to apply for some jobs that you initially feel you are underqualified for.

Also, if you go into an interview/job hunt feeling as though you are going to be rejected -- it's more likely to happen. Make sure that you are always positive. Don't go into an interview with a "whoa is me" attitude - it's a put off to an employer-we all want to be surrounded by positive people and more you can exude that the more desirable you will make yourself
Think of a job interview like a first date - you want to impress them, show them how great and desirable you are, but don't give away all your secrets at first - keep something back to wow them with later

Answer 3

Congratulations on educating yourself - not many people are able to do so today. Don't let your education and qualifications get you down. I know you mentioned that some employment histories require a truthful application response. However, while I am not a fan of lying, you are NOT obligated to reveal that you carry a Master's degree with you. Perhaps try to find a way to not disclose that on your resume and or applications and see what happens. What's the worst that could happen?

Answer 4

you may take what i say with a pinch of salt (nay, with a spoon complete). you're reeking of self assurance which will nicely be sturdy for you,besides the indisputable fact that it scares the different social gathering.(nicely that's existence). except the fellow availing your service is a sturdy pal that's demanding for that man or woman to bear you and word the finer factors that you're trying to make. as you reported, getting a foot in the door itself is a attempting interest. wonderful theory will be to on line counseling or get into call middle interest for a service service,or nevertheless more desirable suitable back workplace interest in a ITES set up. training / evaluation for school scholars performing for aggressive assessments. under no circumstances what i suggested skill that I have executed each and each of the above activities and succeeded. you've already spoke of that I have not a given a clue to who i'm or what i'm,what's my gender or what's my specialist qualification i carry or my competence to propose you. except the the type of composition or spelling no longer some thing could provide me away. you may have this 2 penny nicely worth suggestion for loose. sturdy success to you

Answer 5

I don't what types of jobs that your applying for but, if it a low paying simple job keep your resume simple as possible. If you get an interview ask question's. Like for example, how often do employees get moved up in your company. If it's a company with long status potential, I would then say, that i would really like to work for this company and I do have other qualifications to offer to be a better asset to this company. Let them where you stand with your commitments for being a member of their team. I hope this gets you a little bit better insight on your job hunt. Good luck!!

Answer 6

A couple of things come to mind:
Tailor your resume to fit the job you are applying for, listing specifically only the education that applies to what you are trying to do.
Aim higher. If you have a masters and are applying for pooper scooper jobs, you are seriously over qualified. Apply to jobs that want a masters.

Answer 7

If you find a way to get it, let me know. I have 22 years experience and a Masters. But no one wants to hire someone who is very qualified but over 50. I have been out of work almost a year. I have filled out hundreds of applications.

And yes, I have gone to ones paying about 1/2 of what I was making, and I have heard the same thing.

I have no idea what to do. I guess I can go back to college, and become a 60 year old new hire.

Answer 8

Sometimes it just takes time for the right job to come along!

If you are interviewing for jobs that are not related to your Masters Degree, I would make it clear that you are interested in developing skills in a different field. That puts you more at the same starting level as everyone else.

Answer 9

If you are having that much trouble and being told you are overqualified I would make several resumes that shows less education. Maybe a BA or BS degree. Customize it for each job.

Answer 10

if what you're trying to get doesn't work...

what you can try is look for harder positions if you can find them

i don't know what you do for networking, but find ppl in companies who can give ur resume to the hr dep, or give u their contact info, heck, even tell u what jobs are open within the company and what's not (not all are available to outsiders)

Answer 11

What I would do is pick out the most current education and experience that relates to the job for which you are applying. That way, they wouldn't think you had too much experience or education.