Years of Experience But No Degree - Seven Ways to Beat the Job Search Pitfall

After years on the job, you feel you've definitely platueaued and think it's time for a change. There's one catch: you don't have a college degree. You graduated from the University of Life and have plenty of professional experience to show for it, but no formal degree. Are you still marketable?

George C. found him in that very position last year. After several years as a designer and art director, he was laid off after budget cuts. He seemed to be the perfect fit for one particular employer, but the company required a degree for the position. Thus, he was passed over even though the hiring manager expressed regrets. A few months later and the hiring manager contacted him. The original, "degreed" candidate who was hired didn't work out and they wanted to extend the job to George on a trial basis. Today, he's a full-time employee with that company.

If you find yourself with tons of job experience but hitting the "no degree" dead end, there are some things you can do to accentuate the positive.

1. Let Your Experience Do the Talking
Make sure you highlight your professional accomplishments, technical skills, results and industry knowledge on your résumé. These all help to demonstrate your expertise in your field. Also, try calling attention to any leadership positions you've held, including those with community, volunteer or military organizations, suggests career counselor Susan Guarneri.

2. Articulate Association Activity
Take advantage of career development offerings through your industry association and become active in the organization. "Go to local chapter meetings and join high visibility committees, such as membership, community outreach and publications," Guarneri advises. Not only will this give you additional skills and experience, it will help you make a name for yourself in your field, further enhancing your qualifications.

3. Include Glowing References
Include references from respected colleagues or high ranking industry professionals. These letters of recommendation will speak volumes about your personal character and professional standing. Don't wait for the employer to contact you, but include them in your initial application.

4. Show Alternative Learning
Guarneri stresses it's important to show that you are interested in professional development and continued learning. List any certification programs and professional seminars you have completed. These additional credentials demonstrate your intent to keep your knowledge and skills up-to-date.

5. Apply Experience to a Degree
Search nearby colleges and universities for programs related to your line of work. Many colleges have programs that offer course credit with proof of proficiency in a particular area. It's a terrific way to gain college credit for real life work experience.

6. Earn a Degree
Higher education caters to working professionals in a number of ways. "A lot of traditional academic outlets have online components," Guarneri says. Online courses allow you to work around your schedule. Also look into fast-track programs for adults which allow you to complete a degree at an accelerated pace, usually with less classroom time. There's also the College Level Examination Program assessment to test out of specific courses, while still earning credit for those classes.

7. Show Education In Progress
If you are in the process of earning a degree, make sure you note that on your résumé, along with an estimated date of completion.

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Posted by: Anonymous Years of Experience But No Degree - Seven Ways to Beat the Job Search Pitfall Updated at : 2:00 PM

Tuesday, September 15, 2009