What “Overqualified” Really Means in Recruitment - Niyas Ali

Have you been in such situtation? A great 2min read!

Have you ever been told you’re ‘overqualified’ for a job? At first, it can feel like a backhanded compliment- or worse, a polite rejection. But in reality, the term often reflects deeper concerns about fit, expectations, and long-term success. Hear what Niyas has to say:

The first and most important point is this: it is unfair to the candidate to be hired into a role where they are overqualified. Even if they accept the job, they will not be using their full potential, they may feel undervalued, and over time their work will not bring them the satisfaction they deserve. Calling someone “overqualified” is not a rejection of their ability, it is an acknowledgment that placing them in a role below their level would be unfair to them.

Why Recruiters Still Raise It
Once that fairness to the candidate is clear, there are also other reasons recruiters mention the term:

Mismatch of Expectations
Overqualified candidates often look for higher pay, faster growth, or broader responsibilities. If the role cannot meet these, disappointment is almost guaranteed.

Retention Concerns
When a role does not match someone’s level, there is a strong chance they will move on quickly once they find something more suitable. This results in wasted effort for both the recruiter and the candidate.

Team and Manager Dynamics
If someone has more experience than their manager or peers, it can cause imbalance. The candidate may feel restricted, and the team may feel overshadowed.

What Candidates Can Do
Being told you are “overqualified” does not mean you are unsuitable. It means the recruiter is questioning whether the role is truly the right fit for you. If you genuinely want the position, be upfront about your motivation. Explain whether you are seeking stability, a career shift, or meaningful work over money and title. This helps reduce concerns.
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Niyas Ali
[Niyas Ali is HR Lead at Involve, sharing his insights on the topic. Originally posted on LinkedIn]