Professional experience but no degree

Anonymous

January 9,2023 at 9:35PM UTC

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Professional experience but no degree

I have recently lost my senior level management job in the financial services industry. I have been in this industry for my entire career(27 yrs). In my early 20's I was going to college and working and got to a point where I prioritized working over completing my education and getting my degree. I have often regretted that decision and feel my lack of degree is holding me back from being considered for positions I am qualified for.

I know I could go back to school and get the degree, however that is not really feasible for where I am at in life with my family and finances.

I am looking to make a move out of financial services to another industry. I just want something different. My most recent experience is in Project, Program and Product Management. These skills along with my management background are highly transferrable to another industry, however I feel I just don't even have a chance at most jobs since postings either state degree required or related experience.

I've just started my job search and am quickly getting discouraged on the process. Any thoughts on the possibility of landing a job without a degree, but with solid professional experience? Thank you!

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AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 9:39PM UTC
I would suggest focusing on your network.
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 10:45PM UTC
I started an MBA degree at WGU [Western Governors University]. It is an accredited college. It costs about 5K per 6 month term. They allow acceleration (get through the classes fast if you already know the info). They also have scholarships and accept prior college credit. Note - The scholarship process is 2 part. Make sure to do both parts (first part is general information and second is choosing the scholarships to apply to). If you don't do the second part, you will not be able to try for a scholarship with WGU again. I would suggest looking into the WGU option to get your degree.
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 11:30PM UTC
Sorry to hear That
AnonymousJanuary 9,2023 at 11:45PM UTC
You DO have the related experience. I suggest connecting on LI with recruiters that know how to present qualified candidates that have "transferrable skills" to their hiring managers (which is most). Make sure your resume is also written or "refurbished" if you will, by someone who also understands that point of view. It's all in the delivery. Work with them to change your verbiage, especially those older skills which all have new fangled names these days. Take advantage of any webinars on switching careers/industries, and also on ageism. Yep, it's still very present. Good luck to you. PS I went back to school in 2012 at 52 yo because 4-yr degrees were what you needed. I slipped into the industry in the 90's without one; took classes at night online to get my BA. Held multiple jobs in the company and was very successful. Now, at 62, I've got a BA, my own biz which I'm quietly closing to go back to corp America, and $21k in debt that has ballooned to $35k because of interest. Again, I wish you nothing but success in your journey.
AnonymousJanuary 10,2023 at 7:12PM UTC
Thanks so much. This is helpful info. Spending the time, energy and money at this point in life just doesn’t feel like the right move given my previous success and experience. I appreciate your feedback!
AnonymousJanuary 10,2023 at 9:29PM UTC
exactly my point.
AnonymousJanuary 11,2023 at 4:09AM UTC
Getting gigwork might be easier, more rewarding, and more helpful to your future plans.
Sabrina CortesJanuary 12,2023 at 2:52AM UTC
Hi there!
I'm so sorry to hear that you're going through this. I'm a professional Resume Writer and I'd love to help and offer you a free resume review. In case you're interested, feel free to email me at sabrina@writewithsabrina.com. You can also message me here or on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinacortes-writewithsabrina/).
In the meantime, I'd like to give you a few pointers. One of the best ways to show you're qualified for the job is to highlight your transferable skills and experience. You also want to tailor your resume to the jobs you apply to because this increases your chances of passing the applicant tracking system's (ATS) scanning process. Recruiters search these keywords and skills, and they'll see your resume.
Please let me know if you have any questions. :))
I hope this helps and best wishes to you!
Melisa MckenzieFebruary 25,2023 at 4:09AM UTC
Hello, I am 43 and graduating in May with a very diverse set of jobs in my lifetime. I have not ever had to have a resume. I have read and read all that I can about how to write a resume. I do get interviews right away. I lock up during interviews though. That’s another story.. can you take a look and give me a few tips? I would really appreciate it.
Sabrina CortesFebruary 27,2023 at 4:17PM UTC
Hi Melissa, Of course! Feel free to email me your resume and I'll take a look at it for you. My email is sabrina@writewithsabrina.com.
Also, I created a resume writing course that takes you step-by-step through the resume writing process. The course is individualized to your experience and industry. I have instructional videos and you have email/text access to me for 60 days. This way, you can ask me questions as you go. :)
My goal is to educate and empower as many people as possible! :))
Looking forward to hearing from you!
AnonymousJanuary 18,2023 at 7:13PM UTC
There is a big movement currently to break the "paper ceiling" which is about a college degree.
At my previous company - we eliminated the degree req on all our postings to create a more equitable space. With your level of experience and background - it should be a no brainer to see the value that you bring to a company. Good luck!
Lorri SchulteFebruary 8,2023 at 11:39PM UTC
I am in a similar situation. I have worked in Commercial Real Estate for 25 years. I decided to resign and take a much needed break. I am now trying to pivot to the insurance, risk management and claims side of commercial real estate. Most job descriptions require a degree and will not get past the ATS software without one listed. I added this phase and am hoping it helps me. "Twenty-five years of working experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree".
I admit so far the only nibbles I've had have been from my network connections. Best of luck!