Skills vs Degrees: The importance of sharing your skill set

In today's job market, the traditional emphasis on degrees as the ultimate qualification is undergoing a significant transformation. The dynamics of recruitment are shifting, and the focus is increasingly turning towards skills. This shift is most obvious in industries where soft skills and experience outweigh a formal degree. In this article, we explore the growing importance of highlighting your skill sets over traditional degrees. 

Employers are seeking skills over qualifications 

LinkedIn's recent report on the impact of degrees on hiring reveals a compelling trend. Fewer jobs today require formal degrees compared to the past and employers are shifting their focus towards candidates with the right skills, which is great news for those looking to develop further in their career!

The Stats Speak for Themselves 

According to LinkedIn’s data, Administrative, Accounting & Finance and Engineering Functions have seen the biggest growth in job posts that do not require a degree, with the most significant growth of 453% Accounting roles not requiring a degree. 

It is also worth considering the industries that have had the highest growth in positions that do not require a Degree. This includes Consumer Services (+61%), Entertainment (+46%) and Government Administration (+36%). 

This is not to say that Degrees are not valuable for certain careers, but they are most desirable in roles that require theoretical skills. Often Degrees and formal qualifications can become more beneficial as you progress in your career, and for many employers, candidate experience speaks volumes so you should prioritise this information in your CV. 

The Rise of Alternative Education 

As the demand for specific skills grows, alternative education methods are gaining traction. Online courses, workshops, and certifications are becoming increasingly valuable in the eyes of employers. These programs provide practical knowledge that can be immediately applied work work-related tasks. 

The Power of Soft Skills 

For many career paths, such as customer service, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability are often the more critical aspects of the job. These skills are often honed through experience and can be developed regardless of formal education. 

Building a Strong Network 

Networking and building relationships can open doors that degrees alone cannot. Building a strong professional network can provide access to opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations that can fast-track your career. 

While degrees still hold value in the market, LinkedIn clearly highlight that for many industries there is a greater emphasis on skills and gaining practical experience currently. This is the perfect opportunity for you to focus on building a robust skill set, staying adaptable, and to network within your industry.