Page 130 - 101 Dynamite Answers to Interview Questions

Answer Questions 123

Why do you want a job you are over-qualified for?

If you apply for a job that appears to be beneath your qualifica-
tions, you may be asked why you want to step down the career
ladder to such a job. In fact, many employers will object to
hiring someone who appears over-qualified. You will need to
come up with a bona fide explanation for your behavior. After
all, if over-qualified, you might leave within a very short period
of time, thus creating another personnel problem for the em-
ployer. For example,

I know I may appear over-qual$ed for this position. Some
employers may not want to hire me because they are afiaid I will
be unhappy and leave soon. However, I’ve given this n lot .f
thought. I’m really interested in this position, and I believe I could
bring something to this job that others may not be able to. I prefer
the location and the ability to develop njexible schedule. I’m com-
mitted to staying with the job for at least years. During that
time I think the position will grow in reference to my particular
interests and skills. I believe you will be pleased working with me.

Are you willing to take a cut in pay from your pre-
sent/most recent job? Why?

Be careful with this question. It begins intruding into the salary
negotiation phase of the interview. You are not ready to discuss
money at this point, even though the interviewer may raise this
question. Your goal is to learn about the worth of the position
as well as communicate your value to the employer. If the
interviewer raises this question, he may be trying to put stress
on you or lower your salary expectations. The best response to
this question is to turn it around to your advantage.

I didn’t know we were at the stage of discussing the salary
question. I really need to know more about the position - duties,
responsibilities, expected performance, and so forth. And I’m not
sure you have enough i$onnation about me to begin discussing
money. Could we discuss this question later afcer we hase had a