Welcome to the bright side: Why, how, and when overqualification enhances performance

Abstract We nuance the overtly negative image of overqualified employees by illuminating the brighter side of overqualification. In this extension of current thinking on overqualification, we argue that there are four ways in which overqualification can positively shape the performance of overqualified employees and their fellow group members. Following their theoretical basis, we refer to these as the (1) human capital, (2) status, (3) social learning, and (4) identification advantages. For each advantage we explain the conditions under which they are likely to materialize. We also theoretically explore how the advantages relate to each other as well as to the theories outlining the potential negative consequences of overqualification, and provide an according integrative model on the Relational Effects of Overqualification on Performance (REOP). After discussing the theoretical implications and providing an agenda for future research, we close with a discussion of the managerial implications of leveraging the bright side while acknowledging the dark side of overqualification.