3 things more important than a degree

Keva Ellis, Careers Guest Writer

Some time ago, I heard an educator remark that gardeners will soon need a high-school diploma. I scoffed at the idea, but today I am forced to admit that minimum-wage earners may be requested to have some exposure to at least undergraduate studies.

Sounds pretty ridiculous, but we are in an age where jobs are scarce, however, technology has permitted knowledge to be at everyone's finger tips.

These days, having access to higher education is like pulling off the high way to one of those road-side eateries where hawkers crowd your vehicle to make a sale - yes, I stop by these folks pretty regularly. There are so many institutions offering the 'best' and 'easiest' degree that will get your resumé noticed.

I happen to interact from time to time with a very confident and vibrant young man who is robustly pursuing an undergraduate degree. His diction is poor, and his subjects and verbs never agree; yet he thinks that there are too many 'older' people in the work place. He thinks they are to move on and leave positions open for "young men like me".

Now I took offence, as I am quickly becoming one of the 'older' persons in the workplace. I hastened to point out that there are key elements to one's professional success, and a degree is not necessarily one of them.

Attaining a degree is commendable, a great achievement that can aid one's professional growth; for some of us, it is self-actualisation. All this aside, there are some things much more meaningful and important than a degree.

1. Networking

Networking is building relationships; working in an organisation, it is important to have a good rapport with persons at all levels - from the janitor to the CEO. This helps to develop some awareness of your line of work, and helps to get you and your ability in a particular field noticed. Networking builds confidence, as you can approach anyone and engage them in a conversation in an effort to widen your circle of influence. This allows for the availability of more professional support and advice.

2. Mentorship

Acquiring knowledge and learning from individuals who have gone before is important for any kind of personal or professional development to take place.

That said, I am cognisant that we all have to make mistakes and, hopefully, learn from them. However, it is also prudent to emulate successful and aspiring individuals; learn from their mistakes, examine the strategies they employ to ensure success, while attempting to blaze your own trail.

3. Education

So, you are enrolled in a programme even while you work eight-hour days, plus overtime and, of course, there are family commitments.

However, focus on obtaining an 'education' rather than a mere degree. Learn as much as you can from the experiences of your classmates and lecturers. Some of them have a wealth of experience in different fields.

Take each course and make it your own, relate it to your past experiences, see how it could apply to and improve the work you currently do; ensure that you add value to the organisation you work in. By doing this, you actually receive value for your time, efforts and financial investment, and end up with an education rather than a mere degree.

Networking, mentorship and acquiring an education takes time, patience and much sacrifice but are solid laurels on which a successful career can be built.

Keva Ellis writes on human resources and general management issues. Email: itsrainingviolet@gmail.com