
Under-/Over-Qualified
My last job (of 8 years) didn't really prepare me for re-entering the job market. I've found that no amount of OTJ training is enough and potential employers want those initials behind your name. So right now I'm in a training program that will yield me a PMP, SSGB, ITIL, CSM and CBAP. It also will give advance training in Excel and Sharepoint.
I've been trying to find work as a Project Coordinator. Even they want at least a PMP. I think once done with training I will seek a Project Manager position. I've done PM work in the past without any of the certifications.
Pray that I am not now found to be OVER-QUALIFIED.

Linda, you maybe over qualified for the type of work you are seeking, with that experience you qualify teaching at a university, or government defense type work. Your qualifications has a wide range, you can go any where. or you may have to adjust your resume to fit for what your looking for, other wise keep your head up, a piece of advise do not under estimate your potential, i hope this will help

Linda, Do not dwell on those two dreaded words,"over qualified." Finish your training,when time comes to submit a resume',keep an ace up your sleeve.Do not list all qualifications you may have,only list what the particular employer has asked.Imagine this,you find the right job,you fit right in,6 months later an internal position is open,well guess who has training for that position?Yes a roll of the dice to a degree,Rock on Linda,and GO FOR WHAT YOU KNOW!

Linda, you are correct about having a certification. It is what employers are looking for. I am in a similar boat in that I am trying to change careers but with no certifications or professional designation, it is very difficult finding a job. I too am looking at attending training to gain my PMP. I have heard it is one of the best certs to possess. As far as anyone being over-qualified, I say that's just a slacker's easy out for not bringing you in to interview. You may be more qualified to do a job, but over-qualified???

Linda, Keep going forward, obtain the training you need and go for it. I find that being educated, with OJT is the best way to get a job. I would suggest that you research the company before interviewing for any job.
Good Luck and you have my prayers.

I am in that exact same boat. Been a detailer/project manager for 22 years. When i started this job an AS was all that was required. Now that you can easily get your AS in high school it has lost most of its value so i am seeing entry level drafting jobs wanting a BS and project management wanting a BS or a masters.

I hate being told I don't meet "minimum qualifications" for a job that only requires a GED and one year's general work experience. Got another one of those automated emails tonight, so I may have to make a phone call to ask who keeps coming up with that asinine conclusion.

Hi Linda, reading your post I feel under-qualified to respond. Where would you like to work ideally? What might you do to learn more about what THEY need? Mike mikerael30@yahoo.com

Hi Linda, Thank you for posting your job search story. I have a similar situation about being Over/Under qualified with a lot of experience in Human Resources. It’s sort of double jeopardy because I’m a recruiter looking for recruitment/talent acquisition positions through recruiters. The job search gets a little frustrating, yet I won’t give up.
Don’t you give up either and stay strong. It’s a great that you are getting the training in Project management and Excel! Are you able to share any information about the training program? Is it online training and are there funding resources available?
Praying for your success with everything.

Hi Linda,Remember to keep the faith.Have patience and your prayers will be answered. There is a job with your name on it. Good luck
Allot of project management in the cell phone industry like Verizon and att in Atlanta area.