In today’s job market, a degree or formal education has become the standard for job candidates. However, the question of whether companies should seriously consider job candidates without a degree or formal education is a matter of debate. On one hand, some argue that a degree or formal education is the best indicator of a candidate’s ability to perform the job, while others believe that skills and experience are more important than a piece of paper. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of considering job candidates without a degree or formal education, taking into account both technical and non-technical jobs.
Starting with technical jobs, it is true that a degree or formal education in a specific field can be essential. For instance, a computer engineer needs a strong understanding of programming languages and computer systems, which can be acquired through formal education. However, this doesn’t mean that someone without a degree or formal education cannot become an excellent computer engineer. In the tech industry, it is common for engineers to start learning on their own and then continue their education through on-the-job experience and self-study. Moreover, the tech industry is constantly evolving, and someone with a degree may have knowledge that is outdated by the time they enter the workforce. In contrast, someone who has been self-taught and has hands-on experience may have up-to-date knowledge and practical skills.
On the other hand, non-technical jobs do not necessarily require a degree or formal education. For instance, sales, customer service, and marketing are all non-technical jobs that can be performed by someone without a formal education. These types of jobs require soft skills, such as communication, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work with people. These skills can be acquired through life experiences, volunteering, and internships, which are not necessarily linked to formal education. In fact, some of the best salespeople and customer service representatives may not have a degree, but they have excellent communication skills, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude.
Moreover, companies should also consider the financial aspect of hiring someone without a degree or formal education. Hiring someone without a degree can be cost-effective for companies, as they do not have to pay for the same level of salaries and benefits as someone with a degree. In addition, companies can invest in training and development programs for employees without a degree, which can lead to a better return on investment compared to hiring someone with a degree who may require less training.
Another advantage of considering job candidates without a degree or formal education is that it can help companies diversify their workforce. A diverse workforce brings different perspectives, ideas, and life experiences to the table, which can lead to a more innovative and creative work environment. This is especially true in non-technical jobs, where diversity and diversity of thought can be critical to success.
However, companies should also take into account the potential risks of hiring someone without a degree or formal education. For instance, in some industries, a degree may be a requirement by law, such as in the medical field, where a licensed physician must have a degree from an accredited medical school. In addition, some companies may require a certain level of education for certain positions, such as management, where a degree in business or management may be necessary.
In conclusion, companies should seriously consider job candidates without a degree or formal education. While a degree or formal education may be essential for certain technical jobs, it is not always necessary for non-technical jobs. In these types of jobs, skills and experience are more important than a piece of paper. Moreover, hiring someone without a degree can be cost-effective for companies and can help diversify the workforce. However, companies should also take into account the potential risks of hiring
