Reframing Being Overqualified

Have you ever been told you're "overqualified" for a role you wanted? Or even thought it yourself?

I know the feeling well. In today's job market, it's a label I've encountered more than once. Not in arrogance, but in confidence that I can do the work, contribute meaningfully, and not feel overwhelmed.

A term a coach recently used with me was the phrase "Scaling Down".

It was a game-changer for me. After decades in leadership development, strategy, operations, and coaching, I realized scaling down doesn't mean giving up ambition. Quite the opposite for me. It means choosing impact without chasing the C-suite, and as a business owner, that feels both freeing and appealing.

Still, the word evokes curiosity for me. What do employers really mean when they use it? And how can we reframe it?

When employers use the word, it often reflects their concerns, not your capability. They worry that:

• You'll leave the role quickly for something better

• You'll expect more pay than they can offer

• You'll overshadow the manager with your awesomeness

It's less about you and more about them.

What's the key to moving past it? Excellent question!

The key to moving past it is to shift the conversation from fear to the value you bring.

The reframe it as highly equipped.

It means you bring:

• A breadth of experience to navigate challenges and see solutions quickly

• A quicker onboarding learning time

• Adaptability and know how to pivot within the field

• Mentoring and coaching skills, which may help move the team forward faster

• Strategic insight because you already have experience executing the details

It's truly a gift.

Your challenge is to communicate your value by highlighting the reframe attributes and confirming your commitment, motivation, and focus on the organization, and offering a win-win solution.

If you are a hiring leader, challenge yourself to reframe your mindset and look for the added value, steadiness, and mentorship that can bring alignment with your vision and goals.

In closing, if you've heard the term overqualified, take a deep breath. And reframe.

Your career journey isn't about being too much; it's about being ready to make the right impact in the right place at the right time.

If you are ready to reframe your story and position yourself with confidence, I'd love to partner with you on this journey. Let's connect.

Keep Leading Boldly,

Reeshemah

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Reeshemah Davis

Reeshemah Davis, PCC, CPCC, is a certified executive and leadership coach who helps you create your path toward success by understanding your values, acknowledging self-limiting beliefs, and co-creating solutions for change. She helps leaders develop their leadership presence, increase their influence, and gain clarity of purpose for navigating complex workplaces. Coaching is created to shift your perspective, direct focus, inspire new actions, and redefine your personal and professional goals. Want to learn more? Click here.