11 answers
Mygdalya
Student
Waterbury, Connecticut
1
Question
Asked
1419 views
Can i get a good job with a G.E.D only?
Is it easy to get a good job with a G.E.D and not a high school diploma. I know its gonna be harder but everyone is making it seem like its impossible.
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11 answers
Carolyn Brackett, MS OSci, LSSBB
Process Improvement Manager
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Carolyn’s Answer
While it's certainly not impossible to advance without a degree, it's been my observation that possessing a degree can accelerate your progress within a company. In the absence of a degree, hiring managers will assess your suitability for a role based on your recommendations and the length of your work experience. They are cautious about placing someone in a role they may not be prepared for. It's simply not a wise investment to bring someone on board, only to discover they're not up to the task and then have to restart the hiring process. Therefore, being adequately prepared and demonstrating your capabilities through a solid track record is crucial.
Kara Schultz
Technical Support
5
Answers
Algonquin, Illinois
Updated
Kara’s Answer
It's not impossible! The GED is just the first step. I don't know if you want to go to college too, but most recruiters will look at a college degree or certificate above anything. It tends to be the highest one or two degrees that get looked at for a job or career. Plus, your experience over time will build up and be one of the most important factors when applying for jobs. Don't let anyone discourage you from investing in yourself. You are worthy of an education and a good job.
Dan Wolf
Retired Electrical/Software Engineer and part-time College Professor (BSEET and MS Engineering Management)
124
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Is it possible to secure a decent job with just a GED? Absolutely! Your chances are definitely higher than without a GED or High School diploma, though you may want to consider what you define as a 'good' job.
You might also wonder:
"What are my chances of landing a decent job with just a GED?" The answer is, "You're less likely than someone with a college degree and slightly less likely than someone with a high school diploma, due to unfortunate biases."
As a novice in the job market, how does my salary stack up? The answer is, "It's likely to be less than if you have a college degree and possibly a bit less than if you have a high school diploma." Expect a wage around or slightly above the minimum wage ($8-15/hour), as opposed to $30-50/hour for someone with a degree.
While a GED may not qualify you for many professional roles in finance, healthcare, or engineering, it does pave the way for future college education. Even if you don't currently envision pursuing a college degree, you never know if your plans might change down the line.
If you're pondering whether to pursue or complete a GED, I strongly urge you to go for it. While it doesn't guarantee success, it certainly enhances your prospects.
To wrap up, remember that it's entirely possible to achieve great success without any formal qualifications, especially if you have work experience or access to specialized training. However, having a GED can make the journey a LOT smoother.
You might also wonder:
"What are my chances of landing a decent job with just a GED?" The answer is, "You're less likely than someone with a college degree and slightly less likely than someone with a high school diploma, due to unfortunate biases."
As a novice in the job market, how does my salary stack up? The answer is, "It's likely to be less than if you have a college degree and possibly a bit less than if you have a high school diploma." Expect a wage around or slightly above the minimum wage ($8-15/hour), as opposed to $30-50/hour for someone with a degree.
While a GED may not qualify you for many professional roles in finance, healthcare, or engineering, it does pave the way for future college education. Even if you don't currently envision pursuing a college degree, you never know if your plans might change down the line.
If you're pondering whether to pursue or complete a GED, I strongly urge you to go for it. While it doesn't guarantee success, it certainly enhances your prospects.
To wrap up, remember that it's entirely possible to achieve great success without any formal qualifications, especially if you have work experience or access to specialized training. However, having a GED can make the journey a LOT smoother.
Brandon Olson
Tax Manager
52
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Even though a high school diploma is often favored by employers, don't be disheartened if you have a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. You can still land a great job! It's all about honing other elements of your profile to make you an appealing candidate. Here's how you can do it:
Skill Enhancement: Focus on acquiring and honing skills pertinent to the job you're aiming for. Certifications, vocational training, or specialized skills can give you a unique edge.
Practical Experience: Try to gain hands-on work experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. This real-world exposure can offset the need for educational qualifications.
Building Connections: Forge a robust professional network. Participate in industry events, engage in online forums, and establish connections with professionals in your target field. Networking can pave the way to job opportunities.
Showcasing Success: Accentuate any accomplishments, projects, or relevant experiences on your resume. Employers often place higher value on practical achievements and skills than on formal education.
Lifelong Learning: Think about pursuing further education or certifications in your area of interest. This can show your dedication to learning and professional growth.
Resume Tailoring: Craft your resume specifically for each job application, highlighting your skills, experience, and achievements. A well-structured resume can help you leave a positive impact.
Interview Readiness: Be ready to discuss your GED and explain how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for the job. Practice answering typical interview questions.
Starting Small: Consider applying for entry-level roles where educational prerequisites may be more lenient. As you gain experience, climbing the career ladder becomes easier.
While some employers might have rigid educational requirements, many are open to considering candidates with a GED if they have the required skills and experience. It's crucial to approach your job hunt with determination, self-assuredness, and a go-getter attitude.
Remember, success is usually a blend of factors, including your skills, work ethic, networking prowess, and how effectively you present yourself to potential employers. Don't let obstacles discourage you; instead, concentrate on highlighting your strengths and showing your commitment to succeeding in the workforce.
Skill Enhancement: Focus on acquiring and honing skills pertinent to the job you're aiming for. Certifications, vocational training, or specialized skills can give you a unique edge.
Practical Experience: Try to gain hands-on work experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. This real-world exposure can offset the need for educational qualifications.
Building Connections: Forge a robust professional network. Participate in industry events, engage in online forums, and establish connections with professionals in your target field. Networking can pave the way to job opportunities.
Showcasing Success: Accentuate any accomplishments, projects, or relevant experiences on your resume. Employers often place higher value on practical achievements and skills than on formal education.
Lifelong Learning: Think about pursuing further education or certifications in your area of interest. This can show your dedication to learning and professional growth.
Resume Tailoring: Craft your resume specifically for each job application, highlighting your skills, experience, and achievements. A well-structured resume can help you leave a positive impact.
Interview Readiness: Be ready to discuss your GED and explain how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for the job. Practice answering typical interview questions.
Starting Small: Consider applying for entry-level roles where educational prerequisites may be more lenient. As you gain experience, climbing the career ladder becomes easier.
While some employers might have rigid educational requirements, many are open to considering candidates with a GED if they have the required skills and experience. It's crucial to approach your job hunt with determination, self-assuredness, and a go-getter attitude.
Remember, success is usually a blend of factors, including your skills, work ethic, networking prowess, and how effectively you present yourself to potential employers. Don't let obstacles discourage you; instead, concentrate on highlighting your strengths and showing your commitment to succeeding in the workforce.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Mygdalya !
My answer to your question is sort of a riddle, but I intend to offer you some advice. It's not difficult, it's not easy. But it is possible to obtain work and a career with a GED.
When we are younger, we are surrounded by individuals that have all sorts of opinions for many different reasons. This concern of yours deserves attention further than a simple statement that you say people are giving you. They may not know of anyone or many people who have attained satisfying life work with a GED. No one can compare you with what they don't know or to anyone else. You have a heads up because you are receiving advice now from some very special people here at Career Village who want to see you succeed. Many generations before you did not have that advantage.
If you are obtaining a GED, that is your first goal. Your next step would be to register at the well-known employment websites and see which positions you can actually do with your expertise and skills. Some fields of work that may be open to hiring people with a GED are Drivers, Bank Tellers, Warehouse work, Food Service, Retail Sales, Customer Service, Social Services, the Entertainment Industry, being an Artist, Office Management, as well as Transportation and Construction. Now let's talk about what employers expect and how they usually (not always) go through the process of hiring someone.
I would say that in many instances, education does play an important part. It shows that a person has had focus, discipline and verbal and written communication skills. That being said, one can always self teach, but you can't put "self taught" on a resume. If an employer has in their mind what they want and they want someone with a college degree, they eliminate the applicants that do not have the degree. Many times you will see the education requirement in an employment notice, so you mostly will know before hand. Once you get your GED, start applying for jobs and you will learn first hand how it will go for you. If you see that it is an issue than you can build on your goals and choose what to do. But you will never know until you start applying for a lot of jobs and ace the interview portion of applying. Do not hesitate to start doing it as soon as possible.
Another reason employers might like to see education on an applicant's CV/resume is because it shows that they have worked around others for a period of time, have practiced their written and verbal skills and have the ability to comprehend and learn. That's what they assume based on how structured the formal educational experience is. So these are some things to consider, especially when many people will be applying for the same job you apply for. Sometimes, employers view education as a qualifying factor in whom they choose for the job.
Show yourself that it is not impossible. Forget the negativity others have said and go to the Indeed and Linked In websites, register, and start applying for jobs. Show yourself that you can do it. I hope that this is a bit of a help and do not hesitate to make more inquires here at Career Village. We believe it is important that you have the best experience as possible ! Best wishes in all you do !
My answer to your question is sort of a riddle, but I intend to offer you some advice. It's not difficult, it's not easy. But it is possible to obtain work and a career with a GED.
When we are younger, we are surrounded by individuals that have all sorts of opinions for many different reasons. This concern of yours deserves attention further than a simple statement that you say people are giving you. They may not know of anyone or many people who have attained satisfying life work with a GED. No one can compare you with what they don't know or to anyone else. You have a heads up because you are receiving advice now from some very special people here at Career Village who want to see you succeed. Many generations before you did not have that advantage.
If you are obtaining a GED, that is your first goal. Your next step would be to register at the well-known employment websites and see which positions you can actually do with your expertise and skills. Some fields of work that may be open to hiring people with a GED are Drivers, Bank Tellers, Warehouse work, Food Service, Retail Sales, Customer Service, Social Services, the Entertainment Industry, being an Artist, Office Management, as well as Transportation and Construction. Now let's talk about what employers expect and how they usually (not always) go through the process of hiring someone.
I would say that in many instances, education does play an important part. It shows that a person has had focus, discipline and verbal and written communication skills. That being said, one can always self teach, but you can't put "self taught" on a resume. If an employer has in their mind what they want and they want someone with a college degree, they eliminate the applicants that do not have the degree. Many times you will see the education requirement in an employment notice, so you mostly will know before hand. Once you get your GED, start applying for jobs and you will learn first hand how it will go for you. If you see that it is an issue than you can build on your goals and choose what to do. But you will never know until you start applying for a lot of jobs and ace the interview portion of applying. Do not hesitate to start doing it as soon as possible.
Another reason employers might like to see education on an applicant's CV/resume is because it shows that they have worked around others for a period of time, have practiced their written and verbal skills and have the ability to comprehend and learn. That's what they assume based on how structured the formal educational experience is. So these are some things to consider, especially when many people will be applying for the same job you apply for. Sometimes, employers view education as a qualifying factor in whom they choose for the job.
Show yourself that it is not impossible. Forget the negativity others have said and go to the Indeed and Linked In websites, register, and start applying for jobs. Show yourself that you can do it. I hope that this is a bit of a help and do not hesitate to make more inquires here at Career Village. We believe it is important that you have the best experience as possible ! Best wishes in all you do !
Hector Alvarez-Lopez
Loyalty Champion
1
Answer
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Hector’s Answer
Absolutely, there are numerous excellent job opportunities available that don't necessitate a High School Diploma. A multitude of companies are eager to provide tuition assistance, encouraging you to earn a degree and elevate your educational status. The secret to success is to make your initial entry, just as you would in any other profession. Opt for a job that values internal promotion and offers tuition aid, ensuring you're progressing towards crafting a fulfilling career. These companies are ready to back you up and invest in your potential to help you become an even more valuable asset to them. It's a mutually beneficial situation, a victory for both parties.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3754
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi there Mygdalya,
Absolutely, you can certainly land a great job with a G.E.D! While it's true that holding a high school diploma might make the job hunt a bit smoother, there's no shortage of fantastic opportunities out there for those with a G.E.D. The key is to keep your eyes on the prize and concentrate on building up relevant skills and experience. This can be achieved through things like internships, vocational training, or even entry-level roles that can give you a foot in the door. Plus, making connections and putting your talents and abilities on display can also give you a leg up in finding that perfect job.
Here are the top 3 trusted sources for more information:
1. U.S. News & World Report
2. The Balance Careers
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Take care and all the best,
James.
Absolutely, you can certainly land a great job with a G.E.D! While it's true that holding a high school diploma might make the job hunt a bit smoother, there's no shortage of fantastic opportunities out there for those with a G.E.D. The key is to keep your eyes on the prize and concentrate on building up relevant skills and experience. This can be achieved through things like internships, vocational training, or even entry-level roles that can give you a foot in the door. Plus, making connections and putting your talents and abilities on display can also give you a leg up in finding that perfect job.
Here are the top 3 trusted sources for more information:
1. U.S. News & World Report
2. The Balance Careers
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Take care and all the best,
James.
Don Condie
Engineer
35
Answers
West Jordan, Utah
Updated
Don’s Answer
The GED is proof that you know all that a Regular Graduate from High School should know. It is proof positive that you have the knowledge required to Graduate. There for, you have no need to apologize or show concern about having the GED, instead of a High School diploma. My wife left High School early, took her GED, and has never looked back. You can do the same. You can apply to colleges for higher education or a look for a job that requires a High School education, which ever you decide or both. A GED is a great way to get going. Wish you all the BEST!!! The GED is proof that you are ready to ROLL.
Karissa Helton
Medical School Admisions
64
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
To sum it up all the people without any high school education or GED are getting the same jobs as people with a GED or High School Diploma. A diploma does not mean much to employers and very few jobs will even call a high school to verify a diploma was issued.
take a GED practice test
determine if you need GED test prep classes
find out how many high school credits you have because you may be closer to graduating than you think
Karissa recommends the following next steps:
Rube Charles Sanchez
Customer Service Rep.
3
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Rube Charles’s Answer
When hiring individuals, I would never hold it against anyone who had a GED and or HS diploma.
Most managers/Supervisors if they are wanting the best employees, it is always good to have a full picture of each applicant. We all look at the big picture not the GED/Diploma. Look at education required GED/Diploma...
It is all up to you in the end.
Arrive on time 15 minutes early 100% of the time never show up late : (
Get to know the companies/business you are interviewing for, what their needs are and read the job description!!!
Dress for success and go into an interview with confidence and ask a lot of questions.
Ask how they got their job?
How long did it take them to reach their position?
What is the turnover rate?
Small turnover is job stability and could very well mean a great career.
Most managers/Supervisors if they are wanting the best employees, it is always good to have a full picture of each applicant. We all look at the big picture not the GED/Diploma. Look at education required GED/Diploma...
It is all up to you in the end.
Arrive on time 15 minutes early 100% of the time never show up late : (
Get to know the companies/business you are interviewing for, what their needs are and read the job description!!!
Dress for success and go into an interview with confidence and ask a lot of questions.
Ask how they got their job?
How long did it take them to reach their position?
What is the turnover rate?
Small turnover is job stability and could very well mean a great career.
Rube Charles Sanchez
Customer Service Rep.
3
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Rube Charles’s Answer
As a previous manager of 20 years, I always looked at the accomplishments after getting the GED. The high school diploma and or GED was never a big issue for me.
I look at did you follow up with collage and or spend time at one or two jobs or did you jump from job to job every few months. There is a lot less questions to answer for the applicant with one or two jobs than trying to explain away why you were moving on from one employer to another with no commitment. Show your confidence and dress for success no matter what type of position it is form a desk job to a warehouse position look your best.
Have a list of questions.
Do not end the interview with no I do not have any questions.
Do reserch on every company you are interviewing with.
Ask how they like working there and how they moved up in the company. People like to talk about their acomplishments.
Get their call back and email and or card to thank them after the interview.
I look at did you follow up with collage and or spend time at one or two jobs or did you jump from job to job every few months. There is a lot less questions to answer for the applicant with one or two jobs than trying to explain away why you were moving on from one employer to another with no commitment. Show your confidence and dress for success no matter what type of position it is form a desk job to a warehouse position look your best.
Rube Charles recommends the following next steps: