1. Commit to your soft skills and attitude
Skills you learn, but your attitude is golden. Without a degree, you need to show extra that you are motivated, eager to learn and reliable.
- Demonstrate initiative:Don't wait to be asked for something, but come up with your own ideas and solutions.
- Be flexible: Without formal training, a willingness to pick up new things quickly is crucial. Emphasise that you switch easily.
- Networking: Good communication, cooperation and a professional attitude are essential. Many opportunities arise through word of mouth and connections.
2. The power of practical experience
Experience is often worth more than theory. Look for ways to step directly into the field.
- Start with an entry-level position: Find positions with few barriers, such as in logistics, production, hospitality, or as an assistant. Use this opportunity to get to know the company and the industry from the inside.
- Volunteering or internships: Offer your services, even unpaid, to gain valuable work experience. This shows commitment and quickly complements your CV with relevant tasks.
- Every entrepreneur: Do you have a hobby or skill (photography, web design, odd jobs)? Start a small project or job on your own time. This proves independence and result-oriented.
3. Look for bottleneck skills, such as engineering or IT
Many of today's most in-demand skills do not require years of university study, but do require discipline and self-study.
- Online courses & certificates: From video tutorials to hands-on courses: You can find a lot online these days. Certificates in online marketing, data analysis or project management, for example, show that you continue to develop yourself.
- Coding & IT-Skills: Basic understanding of code (HTML/CSS) or working with specific software (Excel, CRM systems) is a plus in almost any sector.
- Language skills: A fluent command of an additional language, such as German or English, can open doors.
4. Turn your CV into a 'skills file'
If you don't have a degree to name, you need to shift the emphasis.
- Result-oriented CV: Describe not only what you have done, but especially what you have achieved (figures, results, projects).
- Poor description: "Answered phone calls."
- Good description: "Handled an average of 60 customer queries per day, leading to a 15% faster handling time."
- Let references speak: Provide strong recommendations from previous executives or colleagues who confirm your work ethic and talent.
5. Job interview? Dare to name it
Don't be afraid to talk about your missing degree. Turn it around: you acquired these skills through sheer effort and practice.
Your message should be: "I may not have a formal education, but my experience at [Company X] and my certifications obtained show that I have the required skills, combined with a strong drive to learn and perform."
Don't be afraid to talk about your lack of qualifications.
In short:With the right commitment, focus on practical experience and a willingness to learn continuously, a flourishing career without a degree is definitely within reach.