Tips for Getting a Job Without a College Degree

If you have been struggling finding a job, it may be due to your lack of college degree. While there are many jobs available for those without a degree, most these days seem to be requiring at least an associate degree, but even more are looking for a bachelor’s degree or higher. Fortunately, there are still was to get a job without having to go to college and get your degree, or before you finish your education.

The Statistics

First of all, you should know who you are up against. While the positions you find may not require college degrees, many of them prefer them and if another candidate has gotten their bachelor’ in business and you have not, you might get passed over for the job, regardless of your other qualifications. In fact, a recent study reported on Aol.com showed that now approximately 70 percent of high school graduates are attending college and getting their degrees. This means there is the likelihood that you are competing against candidates who have their degrees.

Self-Employment

The first option, is of course self-employment. With self-employment, you are in charge of finding your own work and clients and projects, but it also keeps you from needing to convince employers to hire you even without a college degree. There are many different types of jobs you can do with your own business, ranging from graphic design to offering business services. Consider the pros and cons of self-employment as an alternative before you continue down this path.

Highlight Your Work Experience

Without a college degree, finding a job begins with your resume and job application. This gives you the opportunity to highlight your work experience and other credentials, even though you don’t actually have a college degree. Perhaps you have taken adult-education courses to learn your specialty or have on-the-job experience. If this is your first job and you don’t have college education, consider taking on an internship or volunteering at a relevant organization in order to get this type of work experience.

Convincing an Employer to Hire You

When it comes down to it, you might just need to help convince the employer to hire you, even without a degree. If you are lucky enough to get an interview with them, this is the perfect chance. They are likely to ask about your lack of college education, which is when you can then highlight your other experience and special skills that would be helpful for excelling at this position.

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