17 years experience but not qualified to even get an interview?
Hello. Maybe someone other than the few employers I asked point blank how 17 years of experience wasn't qualified enough to get an interview. I worked the same job for 17 years so this new way of getting a job has been a learning experience. There was a few that didn't mind answering my question when I explained that I could use the constructive criticism. They all said the same thing. I'm over qualified. My last job I started as a phone operator. I loved my boss so when people quit I would pick up the slack. Before I knew it I inherited the job and handled all bookkeeping plus a few other things. But because of this I have insight into the inner workings of a new car dealership most people never get. I did not make up my resume. The unemployment office did and of course made me sound beyond good. I'm starting to think I should add a foot note to my resume that says please don't disqualify me for this position because of my previous responsibilities. I only got them because I cared about my boss and it would leave him in a bad way when people quit. I'm actually a slacker who will do just the bare minimum you expect. Thank you.... anyone else have some insight into this strange problem I'm having? What do I do to "
Actually the skills you have obtained due to people resigning should be written in your cover letter showcasing your willingness to be flexible. Also, when you received constructive criticism from the employers, did you ask them how to get around being overqualified or any suggestions?
Unfortunately, it's not the amount of time at a job that determines your experience level. While 17 years shows loyalty, if an employer is looking for someone with experience using specific software packages, and you don't have that skill set, that truly makes you inexperienced.
It sounds like the agency who did your resume did a well enough job to land you interviews, but during the course of the interview, the employer is determining that you unfortunately don't have the required experience in the various software packages.
Honestly, you could learn on tbe job and be perfectly fine, but most employers want someone who can jump right in without a software learning curve. Let employers know that while you don't have the desired software experience, you are tech savvy and can learn new software products easily.