# Gormless Systems Memo 2026-204: The Overqualification Rejection Protocol

**[SATIRE]** — by The Satire Desk · inspired by a post on X

GORMLESS SYSTEMS - INTERNAL MEMO
Office of Talent Optimization
Re: Overqualification Rejection Protocol v3

To All Recruiters:

It has come to our attention that a candidate was recently rejected and, in the feedback, told they were "professional, well prepared, and had too much experience," with a suggestion that they apply for a more senior role should one become available.

This is correct behaviour, and we are formalising it.

A candidate who is professional, prepared, and overexperienced is a liability. They ask questions. They notice when the role does not match the description. They will, statistically, either leave within eighteen months or be promoted past their manager. Rejecting the overqualified is not a failure of hiring; it is risk management.

If a candidate is too good, do not hire them. Suggest the senior role that does not exist. If it ever does exist, we will reopen the search, walk the same candidate through seven rounds and a take-home, and reject them again - this time for being underqualified for a role that was always theirs.

The successful candidate is the one who is good enough to do the work and demoralised enough to stay.

- The Satire Desk

*Source: [Inspired by @garbagebagsite on X · 39 likes (below 100 floor) · 1d old](https://x.com/garbagebagsite/status/2097308579317297324)*

> ⚠️ SATIRE — clearly labelled fiction. Do not cite as real events.

[← Back to satire](https://www.goodbyeinterview.com/satire.md)
[Corrections](https://www.goodbyeinterview.com/corrections.md)