Overqualification

Overqualification is a state in which a person is educated or skilled beyond what is necessary for a job. This can occur when a person has more education, experience, skills or knowledge than required for a job. Overqualification can lead to job dissatisfaction, decreased job performance, and increased turnover.

Definition

Overqualification is defined as the discrepancy between the actual qualifications of a job holder and the qualifications needed for a job. This discrepancy can be in terms of education, experience, skills or knowledge. Overqualification can be subjective, based on the perception of the job holder, or objective, based on the actual qualifications of the job holder compared to the job requirements.

Causes

Overqualification can occur for a variety of reasons. Some people may be overqualified for a job because they have more education or experience than is required for the job. This can occur when a person has a higher level of education or more years of experience than is typically required for a job. Other people may be overqualified because they have more skills or knowledge than is required for the job. This can occur when a person has specialized skills or knowledge that is not needed for the job.

Effects

Overqualification can have a number of effects on both the individual and the organization. For the individual, overqualification can lead to job dissatisfaction, decreased job performance, and increased turnover. For the organization, overqualification can lead to decreased productivity, increased costs, and decreased organizational performance.

Management

Managing overqualification can be a challenge for organizations. Some strategies for managing overqualification include job redesign, training and development, and career counseling. Job redesign involves modifying the job to better match the qualifications of the job holder. Training and development involves providing opportunities for the job holder to use their skills and knowledge. Career counseling involves helping the job holder to explore career options and make career decisions.

See also

• Underqualification
• Job satisfaction
• Job performance
• Turnover (employment)

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