Regardless of the issue, there may be a point where you would be looking for a step down opportunity. Although it will reduce your compensation, responsibility and stress, you should also know that most employers will be suspicious of professionals who don't want much responsibility.
Sometimes employers fear that if you are willing to take a job which is a step down from your current position, you would not be happy in the future. If you are currently facing this problem and are interviewing, it would be helpful to know that potential employers may take this view. They will have several questions:
Why do you really want a lower position?
Would you be happy taking less money?
Do you really plan to stick around for long or are you only in till the annual bonus is given out?
It would be your job to put such dubious perceptions to rest.
Whether you are interviewing for such a position outside or inside your company, you will have to be prepared to answer for a few questions like:
What really makes you ready to accept a pay cut?
Since you have a better experience than required for this job, how would you be happy with it?
Tell the interviewer that you are grateful for the opportunities in the past which allowed you to develop your skills, however, you have realized that you are happier in a position with less managerial or supervisory role. You can also say that you want to be able to become an admin again who can focus on the requires of a single person rather than a group of people and that you are looking forward to a position that does not require you to be managing a database or other positions.
If the employer tries to tap dance around it, you can simply take the lead and explain the interviewer why you are applying for a job that is below your experience and skill levels. Often the interviewer would be relieved when you address the issue yourself. After you have introduced the topic, ensure that you are thoroughly prepared to answer any questions he/she has about your decision.
The important thing here is to reassure your interviewer and provide a compelling reason about why you are interested in the particular position. Try and be honest about why you are taking a step down when you could have a better opportunity. It is also important that you should not talk about how much or why you hated your past position and job. This will not gain you any points at all.
