Title: Embracing Your Worth: Navigating Job Interviews with Confidence
Written on
Chapter 1: Recognizing My Value
How should you respond when confronted with the interview query regarding being over-qualified? My approach is simple: I assert, 'I am enough.'
Recently, I had the opportunity to interview for a senior student affairs role at a nearby college. The position aligned well with my qualifications, and the staff I interacted with were exceptional. Additionally, the role promised to be fulfilling.
Following my on-campus interview, I even participated in a follow-up discussion with one of the senior academic deans. I felt optimistic and motivated. Regardless of the outcome, I knew I had given my all.
This situation has been on my mind, especially when faced with a particularly tough question during the interview.
Section 1.1: Addressing the Over-Qualification Question
When asked if I believed I was over-qualified for the role, I found myself momentarily at a loss for words.
How do you engage with an interviewer who suggests you might be overqualified?
How to Tackle a Challenging Question?
This tricky question has always left me uncertain about the best way to respond. It often feels nearly impossible to provide an adequate answer, let alone highlight my skills through the right anecdotes.
Should I concede and diminish my employability? Or do I push back, risking further doubts about my qualifications? The question seems nonsensical at times, and I often struggle to provide a coherent response.
However, this time, I confidently stated that I was enough, and then I expanded on that idea.
Section 1.2: A Shift in Perspective
After enduring a year of disappointing interviews and campus engagements, my confidence had taken a hit. I felt out of place and believed I might have to compromise to find a suitable job.
Yet, something this time encouraged me to rethink my job search strategy.
While researching the position, I realized I lacked substantial information; the college’s website was not very informative, and many staff members had minimal job details on LinkedIn. Thus, I knew I had to craft my narrative based on the interview questions.
I consider myself a skilled storyteller. Not every interviewer appreciates this trait, but I excel at providing context and demonstrating passion. I recognized that this was the way to convey my message effectively in the moment.
Subsection 1.2.1: Following My Own Guidance
I took it upon myself to revisit my professional advice and reflect on the past year of blog entries. Here’s what I gleaned:
- Trust Your Instincts: I entered the interview aware of the importance of active listening during the 30-minute sessions. By paying close attention to their inquiries, I was able to construct a comprehensive view of the institution, which impressed the hiring manager when I asked insightful questions. I have to trust in my knowledge and my ability to ask the right questions.
- Utilize Humor as a Connection Tool: During interactions with some stakeholders, we shared laughter, even when discussing serious topics like crisis management. Humor can be a bridge to building community, and I know how to leverage this skill appropriately.
- Acknowledge My Executive Experience: I often overlook my time as an executive director for a fraternity, not because it was insignificant, but because it wasn’t the primary source of my income. However, that experience is highly relevant to interviews. As the sole decision-maker, I oversaw staff and took my responsibilities seriously. I need to delve deeper into this background.
Chapter 2: Confidence in My Abilities
As I mentioned earlier, even if I don’t receive an offer from the college, I won’t feel disheartened. I have given my best effort, answered questions with expertise, and felt a genuine connection with the faculty I interacted with. Ultimately, I controlled what I could, and that’s all I can ask for.
Experts often share strategies for interviewing for positions that may seem just beyond your current qualifications. The key takeaway is to understand the role, establish rapport with the hiring manager, and above all, believe in your own value. When you embrace your worth, others will recognize it too.
Having spent nearly a decade assisting entry-level and mid-level professionals in reassessing their strengths and developing new skills, I’m here to support you in your journey.
Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss a tailored plan that suits your needs.
Joseph has worked in non-profit workforce development for 20 years, following a career in higher education administration. He specializes in diversity, equity, and inclusion education, as well as professional development and leadership training. He is also the author of "Tales of a Displaced Worker," "The SAGA Facilitation Model," and "Right Here, Right Now: Prioritizing Your Personal Development in Times of Crisis."