Are you in the market for a job that can bloom into a full career? Do you want to enter a job without having to get a college degree? There are always ways to find a career without having to enter college.
Today, the collective student loan debt in the US is about $1.56 trillion. The average student loan debt at a private non-profit college is $32,300. In public colleges, the average student loan debt is $25,550.
If you want to avoid being in debt, you can start a good career right away, but you need to learn how you can do this properly, not just run out and get a minimum wage job.
1. Find a Mentor
One of the things you need to do first is to look for a mentor who will show you the ropes. If your passion is working with wood, you don’t need to go through college to get the hang of it. A mentor can focus on teaching you the practical skills and information you need for your job.
Many of the “trades” like plumbing, electrical, framing and carpentry still have apprenticeships, so you learn from people experienced in the trade. Some require that you join the union so visiting the local Union hall would be a good place to find out what is necessary to get started in the trades in your particular location.
Finding a mentor is always a smart move because you’ll have someone to guide you. Their focus won’t be jumping between twenty-nine other students. Often, they also have passion in the industry they’re in or teaching you about.
2. Take Online Courses and Short-Term Specialty Programs
Just because you don’t want a 4-year degree doesn’t mean you should avoid college altogether. You can still take a course or program to learn and improve. Plus, certifications from either online or trade programs are proof that you learned the skills taught in the course.
You won’t need to take a college degree, but you can take short-term courses at the local community college still. These courses are often formal, short-term, focused on teaching practical knowledge. They also have flexible schedules and offer certified specialties.
They can last between three to six months. You can get certifications for everything from Accounting to Welding and from Computers to Culinary Arts. You’ll be learning at an accelerated rate, but it’s the best way to get certified.
3. Learn to Be a Leader and a Team Player
The ideal employee is a good team player. Also, every company is looking for a good leader. The best way to get a head start in your career hunt is to learn how to be a bit of both.
The secret is to do the job you’re getting paid to do and then some. You may have to work harder for longer hours and make hard decisions. It’ll be difficult at first, but it’ll be worth it when you get due recognition for your effort.
Be amicable to everyone in the department. Avoid conflict if you can. Also, try to be more proactive and take initiative. A model employee can later get promoted into a leader, even without a college degree.
4. Find a Career by Networking as Much as You Can
A powerful asset of many successful people is their extensive network. Take a page from their book and expand your network as well. Whether you plan to create a career based on meeting people or not, you need to expand your network.
Try to make friends wherever you go. When you meet new potential business partners or customers, learn how you can get in contact. Do the same when you start working in a team, department, or company.
You may know someone who is looking for an employee that fits your skill set. Your connections with an HR employee may help you get a recommendation letter to a new company. Having an extensive network can help you reach your career dreams.
5. Become a Problem Solver
A successful businessperson is someone who knows how to problem-solve. Are you not finding success in your job hunt? The solution may be to look in other niches or venues.
Even if you don’t have a college degree, you need to learn how to solve problems. Solving problems means you’re taking initiative. It puts you one step closer to success, especially in these jobs.
It’ll show your employer that you’re willing to do what you have to, so the job gets done. It shows that you won’t wait for someone else to take the initiative. When you have this kind of mindset, your value will increase, and you’ll later find success in your career.
6. Put in the Work
No matter who you are, it takes elbow grease to find success. Working will give you the experience and wisdom you need. It will make you outstanding in your job and career, despite a lack of a bachelor’s degree.
Even those who are lucky enough to inherit a company or business from their parents need to put in the work. Otherwise, the business can fail. Even if you do decide to get a college degree later, you still need to put in some effort in your career.
7. Be Positive
If you’re still considering whether you’ll go to college, you may have done some research. You may have discovered 60% of college students in four-year courses get their bachelor’s degree after six years. You may have considered this and what you could’ve already done in those six years.
If you think the odds are better when you work, you may choose to skip college. Even then, you may still have some reservations about going straight to work. One secret to not regretting this decision is to stay positive about the situation.
Indeed, you don’t have a bachelor’s degree. However, you may know a lot of practical and technical skills that can land you a job. Focus on these skills instead, especially when you go on an interview.
Find Your Career
The ongoing pandemic changed a lot of things and put many plans on hold. For many people, this includes getting a college education. Consider what is more practical for your current situation and how it may affect your future.
Now you know how to get a job without a degree! Remember, you can always come back and get your college degree later if you still want it.
Of course, this is only the beginning. There’s a lot more to discover, such as how to utilize platforms like Fiverr or even YouTube to your advantage. For more content like this guide on how to find a career without a bachelor’s degree, read our other in-depth guides today!
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