A college degree is often seen as a one-way ticket to a great job. While that’s not necessarily true, the countless people without degrees will tell you not having a degree does make it much harder to land their ideal job.

Is getting a degree an option for you?

Some are of the opinion that the only solution to not having a degree is to get one. If you can go back to school, there are plenty of options out there for those who need to work while studying—and it’s never too late in life to go back to school! However, going back to school isn’t feasible for many people…

If getting a degree isn’t an option… How do you market yourself?

Sell Your Skills.

Even if you don’t have a degree, you have a valuable set of skills and someone is looking for a person with your experience. Whether you’re a great car mechanic or an excellent event planner, use those experiences to build your credibility and present it in the best resume format.

Bring a portfolio.

Getting a job when you don’t have a college degree to speak for you might not be easy. You’re going to have to work harder to prove you know your stuff and that you are the best candidate for the job. One way to do this is to bring a portfolio of the work you’ve done. Prove to them that you can do exactly what they need you to do.

Use Your Connections.

If you have the experience, you probably know a ton of people too. Use those relationships to your benefit. Sometimes all you need is the “in” to get the interview, and then you have the chance to prove your knowledge and skills.

Employers like to hire college graduates because colleges are willing to vouch for their students’ skills; find someone they’ll trust to vouch for you in the same way!

Work Hard.

Chances are you already know this lesson, but it bears repeating. Always do your best. No one is going to hand you the perfect job if you don’t work for it. You might have to start a little lower in the company and work your way up, but a good work ethic will work wonders for you.

 

Remember, some companies will require a degree.

Right or wrong, some companies will require a degree. It’s a policy that many people won’t be able to get around. However, there are others that will accept your experience. So don’t doubt your abilities just because some businesses are wrapped in red tape. Keep trying, and don’t waste your time applying for jobs that do require degrees.

Sometimes you’ll hit a glass ceiling when you’re trying to get promoted—but that doesn’t mean you have to stop there! Many companies will offer tuition reimbursement if it helps them promote the best candidate. So, if they will, take advantage!

Evolution Coaching can help you not only land the job of your dreams by building your confidence and communication skills with our Interview Coaching and Resume Services, but we can help you determine what career path is best through careful career planning and brainstorming with one of our certified career coaches!