Overqualified: A Blessing in Disguise

Have you ever been told you’re “overqualified” for a role where you seemed like the perfect fit?

Are we really overqualified—or are employers overlooking what we bring to the table?

Marshall Goldsmith, in What Got You Here Won’t Take You There, says, “Successful people become great leaders when they learn to shift the focus from themselves to others.” Moving forward often means doing things differently—not learning more, but going deeper.

We already have the skills and knowledge. What’s often missing is showing who we truly are. Employers aren’t just looking for someone who checks all the boxes—they want authenticity, integrity, and a fresh perspective.

Many job descriptions today are shaped by AI, emphasizing metrics over potential. That depth, wisdom, and authenticity that might make someone look “overqualified” on paper is actually a strength, not a weakness.

When an employer says you’re overqualified, it’s often about money. But what if your goal isn’t the paycheck, but making an impact? Using your experience to help an organization grow is exactly what they should want.

Being overqualified isn’t a step backward—it’s like being a consultant, bringing expertise to help an organization thrive. Your skills, wisdom, and authenticity are exactly what organizations need.

Maybe being overqualified isn’t a limitation at all—it’s a blessing in disguise.