When Over-Qualified Becomes Rejection

For over two years, I’ve applied to roles across industries. As a chef, author, coach, and high-ticket closer, I’ve heard the same silent message: You’re not underqualified — you’re overqualified.

Here’s the truth: being passed over isn’t always about lack of skill. Often, it’s about intimidation. Employers may fear you’ll get bored, move on quickly, or even outshine leadership. Research shows that overqualified applicants are seen as a “flight risk,” even when their skills could add value to the company (Harvard Business Review, 2019).

But here’s the reframe: rejection is redirection. Instead of shrinking my vision, I treat every “no” as confirmation to aim bigger. The same research suggests that overqualified individuals excel in adaptability, leadership, and resilience — all traits the entrepreneurial path demands.

So if you’ve been overlooked, it doesn’t mean you’re unfit to wash dishes. It means you’re called to build the table.

Disappointment can either drain you or drive you. I choose to let it fuel me — to lean into coaching, writing, and leading Ground Zero Academy. Because the truth is, sometimes you’re not meant to fit the role. You’re meant to create the role others look up to.

📚 Sources:

• Harari, O. (2019). Why Overqualified Candidates Don’t Get Hired. Harvard Business Review.

• Erdogan, B., & Bauer, T. N. (2009). Overqualification at work: The relationships of job overqualification with work outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology.