You may know that getting an education is an important part of being successful in life. While you may not need a master's degree to get a job, your career prospects are limited if you haven't graduated from high school. The good news is that there are ways to improve your career prospects or earn enough to live a comfortable lifestyle without your diploma.
Find a Freelance Job
If you have a talent for writing, taking photographs or organizing data, you may want to consider freelance work. In most cases, you are judged on the merits of your previous work and experience with a given subject as opposed to your level of education. In other words, a client cares more about your ability to write well instead of where you went to school.
Work Your Way to Higher Levels
Employers may be willing to overlook your lack of an education if you have done good work for them. While you may need to be willing to start at the bottom, you may be able to work from being a cashier to being a manager or even a franchise owner. In the business world, it is usually who and what you know on the job that matters more than getting a degree or diploma.
Get a GED
If you are truly concerned about not getting ahead because of a limited formal education, getting a GED may be for you. Remember, just because you don't have a diploma does not mean that you are stupid or incapable of learning. It may be ideal for those who had to drop out because of illness or because they needed to provide for their family members.
Take Classes at a Community College
If you speak a language other than English or want to take specialized courses, going to community college or an institution like the Interactive College of Technology may be for you. Whether you go online or to a physical campus location, you can learn the skills needed to find work in a specialized field. Most programs are flexible and allow you to complete coursework at your own pace.
Getting a degree doesn't mean that you are smarter than those around you. Not having a diploma doesn't mean that you are dumber than those around you. However, if you are looking to get ahead in the business world, having your diploma will open a lot of doors to future opportunities. With the right work ethic and some skill, you may be able to rise above your perceived limitations.
