OK, let's address the money issue again! I've been thinking this over since there are many different angles on this question. How is an employer to respond to a candidate who is applying for a position with a significantly lower level of required skills than the candidate actually has? As an example, if you've been a senior developer in your last four jobs and you have 15 years of development experience under your belt, what is the proper reaction to you applying for an associate- to mid-level position?

1. You're clearly not mid-level


2. You were, in all likelihood, making significantly more money in your previous jobs


3. You probably were used to using a lot of brain power and not doing as much grunt work

Honestly, I don't have a solid answer for this. If the market is tight, you might be considered a real "bargain" if you'll drop your salary requirements. On the other hand, if the market picks up, let's face it, you'll bolt!

This is very similar to the situation an employer faces when considering a consultant who has suddenly seen the light and decides that going regular hire fits his/her present needs. Let's face it, it only fits their present needs because the market stinks and there's no work. Again, if that market perks up, KAAABOOOM! they're out of there like they were shot from a cannon.

Neither situation is ideal if your goal is to build a balanced, stable team. Any comments?