Respond to "overqualified." Don't look like a deer in the headlights when someone says you're overqualified -- often code for "you're too old." Normally applicants simply hang up or move on. They don't respond with an attempt to get the recruiter to reconsider. Push back ever so gently, but firmly, and say, "One benefit of someone with my experience is that I've been around long enough to know better than to apply for a position where I'd be bored. I've researched this opportunity and I'm confident that you'd be pleasantly surprised at what a good match I'd be, so I'm hoping we can continue this dialogue. I don't mind giving you more experience than you need because I'd use it to help mentor others."
Clearly label a career change. If you're switching fields, make sure the objective summary on your resume reflects that desired shift.
Don't rely on your resume to sell yourself. Focus on putting your face to your resume. After you apply online, find someone at the company to connect with. Use professional organizations, alumni relations, LinkedIn.com, friends, family, former colleagues and so on to find someone who works at the company you're targeting. Internal referrals can help you get noticed. If you can't find one, then cold-call the person you'd be working for to express your strong interest in the position and be ready to explain why you'd be an asset. Rehearse before calling.
Never put all your eggs in one basket. One job might seem great, but don't rely on it. You must have lots of sticks in the fire at any given time. Register with local placement agencies and headhunters in your area, but don't rely on them to get you a job. You must rely only on yourself to make it happen.
Tory Johnson is the workplace contributor on "Good Morning America" and the CEO of Women for Hire. Her Web site is www.womenforhire.com.
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