Ep. 41 . So, You're Overqualified?Hosts: Dr. Matt Kutz & Dr. Jeff Konin
Episode Type: Listener Topic Request
Topic: What to do when you're told you’re "overqualified" during a job interview.
In this special listener-requested episode, Dr. Matt Kutz and Dr. Jeff Konin dive into the complexities of being labeled "overqualified" in job interviews. Drawing from their combined experience on dozens of search committees, they explore what this label really means, why it's used, and how candidates can navigate it with confidence and transparency. Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking a career change or someone who just heard this term in a rejection email, this episode is packed with candid insights and practical takeaways.
00:00 – Introduction
Welcome from Matt and Jeff
First ever listener-submitted topic!
Today’s question: What do you do when you’re told you're overqualified?
Realities of Hiring Committees
Jeff and Matt’s experience on numerous search committees
The meaning behind “overqualified” from a hiring perspective
Salary Expectations & Value Perception
Overqualified = high salary expectations
Why employers may avoid hiring someone they can't compensate fairly
The Psychological Barrier
What does willingness to take a lesser role signal?
Risk of appearing desperate or undervaluing oneself
Personal Reasons for Applying
Spouses, family care, relocations — legit but risky if not communicated clearly
The “Catch-22” of transparency
Employer Concerns About Retention
High cost of hiring, onboarding, and turnover
Fear of interim hires jumping ship
The Influence of the Gig Economy
Jeff shares his battle with peer reviewers over acknowledging gig economy shifts
Job-hopping is the new normal
The Role of Intimidation
Some managers fear hiring someone more qualified than themselves
The challenge of fit vs. threat
A Personal Anecdote from Kutz
Interviewing for a summer job despite advanced qualifications
Transparency and reasonable expectations won the job
Coaching & Athletic Analogy
Turnover in coaching parallels modern job market trends
Overqualification seen as a risk rather than an asset
Fit vs. Overqualification
Sometimes “overqualified” is code for “not a good fit”
Employers and applicants both play word games
Transparency, Self-Awareness, and Storytelling
Why applicants need to own their narrative
Proactive explanation is key
Real Talk About the Academic Job Market
Being too advanced limits opportunities
Recognizing the shrinking market as your expertise grows
Final Advice
If you’re overqualified and know it, address it upfront in the interview
Coach your references to reinforce your message
Wrap-Up
The value of transparency and self-awareness
See “overqualified” as an opportunity to tell your story — not a rejection
“Overqualified” isn’t always a negative label — but it can signal concerns.
Always be transparent about your motivations and goals.
Fit, self-awareness, and proactive communication matter more than titles.
Use references to reinforce your narrative and credibility.
Have a topic you want Matt & Jeff to cover on the Leadercast? Email us or drop your idea on our socials!
Kouts & Konin Leadercast – Where Real Leadership Gets Real.
