Meet Tunji and Timothy; Tunji is a first-class student with a CGPA of 5.0, and Timothy is a 2nd-class lower student with a CGPA of 3.12. Tunji spends most of his time burying his head in academic work, while Timothy is a social guy and participates in a good number of extracurricular and social activities on campus. He also works in a business Centre owned by his father. Timothy has people skills, knows how to build networks and connect with people, and is good with graphics design and MS Office suites. They both graduate from the university after finishing their academic pursuits and start to look for jobs. Timothy gets a job before Tunji who graduated with a first class and supposedly was the most likely person to get a job first. The interviewers who interviewed Timothy noted that he possessed soft and hard skills that rendered him suitable for the role, whereas Tunji, despite having excellent academic qualifications, did not get the job because he did not possess the soft or hard skills required for the role he applied for. That is sometimes the reality of the job market.
While graduating with a first-class degree is commendable and often gives room for varied academic recognition and awards like scholarships and fellowships, it is the possession and demonstration of relevant skills that ultimately drive career success. This article explains why skills have become more critical than normal or traditional academic excellence and how individuals can utilise their abilities and skills to thrive in their careers. Let us explore the factors behind the shift from academic credentials to practical skills and the implications for job seekers and employers.
- The Changing Nature of Work
Globalisation and advancements in the technological age have changed the nature of work. Many industries and companies have experienced a shift towards automation and digital transformation, which requires a workforce that is adaptable and skilled in new technologies. Employers and recruiters are looking for individuals who demonstrate some level of technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, adaptability, etc.—qualities often not reflected solely by academic grades.
- Skills-Based Hiring
Industries and organisations are increasingly adopting skill-based hiring practices. This approach focuses on a candidate’s abilities and competencies rather than their academic credentials. According to a report on LinkedIn, about 70% of hiring managers believe that skills are more important than degrees. This trend is evident in tech companies, startups, and even traditional industries where practical skills are crucial for job performance for example, a certified doctor can, with at least 3 months of training, work as a cyber security officer.
- Real-World Problem Solving
In the professional world, the ability to solve real-world problems is paramount. While a first-class degree indicates a strong academic foundation, it does not necessarily equate to the ability to navigate complex, real-world challenges. Employers value candidates who can apply their knowledge practically, work well in teams, and apply critical thinking to solve problems.
The importance of having skills cannot be overemphasised. Here are some ways you can build and demonstrate skills:
- Pursue Continuous Learning
Non-stop learning is a no-brainer in today’s job market. Individuals should seek opportunities to enhance their skills through the online or physical learning platforms available to them. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a lot of courses that can help individuals stay current with industry trends and technologies.
- Gain Practical Experience
Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work provide invaluable practical experience. These opportunities allow individuals to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, develop their skills, and build a network of professional networks. Practical experience is often more impactful than an outstanding academic record when it comes to securing a job.
- Showcase Skills through Portfolios
Creating a portfolio that showcases your skills and accomplishments can significantly enhance your job prospects. For fields like design, writing, and software development, a portfolio can provide tangible evidence of your abilities. It allows potential employers to see your work firsthand and assess your proficiency.
- Network and Build Relationships
Networking remains a crucial element in career success. Building professional relationships can open doors to job opportunities and career growth. Engaging in industry events, joining professional associations, and leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn can help expand your network.
Soft skills play a vital role in the workplace. In a fast-paced work environment, employers also look for individuals who can handle change, quickly learn new skills, and recover from setbacks. Demonstrating these abilities will set you apart from candidates who rely solely on their academic achievements.
Conclusion
This article does not suggest that students should forgo aiming for a first-class degree. All students should strive for academic excellence. However, while a first-class degree is commendable, it alone is not sufficient in the job market. Practical skills are also necessary to build a successful career in any field.
Navigating the job market requires a balanced approach that values both academic excellence and practical skills. As industries continue to evolve, the ability to adapt and apply knowledge in real-world situations will remain a critical determinant of career success.