Why Qualifications Don’t Define a Person’s Worth

The Role of Qualifications in Today’s Job Market

Qualifications have long been considered the primary measure of a person’s abilities. In France, many jobs still require a BAC + 2, even for roles that don’t necessarily need it. This creates barriers for capable individuals lacking formal qualifications and raises the question: Are qualifications truly the best way to assess a person’s worth?

Personal Story: Choosing Passion Over Conventional Paths

I chose to follow my passion for graphic design instead of pursuing A Levels. It wasn’t due to a lack of ability but because I knew what I wanted. Despite this, my decision has sometimes been considered a limitation, as though I chose a lesser path. This is a common experience for many who take non-traditional routes.

The Problem with Overemphasising Qualifications

Qualifications can indicate certain skills, but the lack of them doesn’t mean a person lacks the ability. For instance, someone may excel in analytical thinking without formally studying maths. Recognising that skills and knowledge can be acquired outside of formal education is crucial, yet this is often overlooked in the hiring process.

Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Vocational Skills

It’s fascinating how quickly people make assumptions based on a title. Having a CAP from the 90s? That’s enough for some to assume you’re stuck in the past or ‘not one of the literate ones.’ Ironically, this qualification no longer exists in the same form; now, if you want to do the job I trained for, you have to go through the BAC pathway. But back then, the opportunity simply didn’t exist. The system has shifted, but the stigma remains, almost as if experience counts for nothing.

The Reality of Job Listings: Challenges for CAP/BEP Holders

Despite spending significant time on job platforms like Indeed, I’ve never seen job listings specifically targeting CAP/BEP qualifications. Even when filtering for these levels, the results often show jobs requiring BAC + 2 or higher or no specific qualifications at all. This disconnect between the value of diverse skills in theory and the actual job market in practice highlights the slow pace of change in hiring. It makes it nearly impossible for individuals with vocational qualifications to find suitable opportunities, further marginalising their skills and experience.

One of the Absurdities of Qualifications

Imagine having a BAC + 2 in mathematics, yet applying for a job in history where I know nothing about the subject. It highlights the laughable disconnect in hiring practices, where formal qualifications overshadow relevant skills and experience. The system suggests that my academic background qualifies me for roles I’m completely unprepared for, illustrating how rigid adherence to qualifications can overlook the true worth of an individual. It’s time to value experience and adaptability over mere diplomas.

From the Recruiter’s Perspective: Filtering by Qualifications Alone

From what I’ve seen, recruiters often go through CVs with qualifications as the first and only filter. It seems that the first round is all about getting rid of what they consider ‘the trash’—those without the right diploma, the so-called stupid or deluded ones—without ever taking the time to read the cover letter or even look at the full CV. Only once they’ve eliminated those ‘unqualified’ candidates do they actually bother to take a closer look at what’s left. It’s disheartening, but it’s the reality.

My Experience in the UK vs. France: Where Potential Matters More

In the UK, my qualifications didn’t hold me back because it wasn’t about my diploma; it was about my potential. Even without prior office experience, I started working in entry-level roles, like at Kelly Services in the time card room, and I was promoted based on how well I performed. Eventually, I rose up the ranks and started my own business in 2006—all without a BAC. What mattered was my ability and attitude, not just a qualification on a piece of paper.

When I Was a Manager: Hiring for Attitude, Not Qualifications

When I was a manager, I applied the same philosophy. I didn’t focus on qualifications when hiring, but rather on attitude and willingness to learn. I hired women with no office experience over those with qualifications, because they had the right mindset. It didn’t take long to train them, and they soon excelled in their roles. Not once did I regret hiring based on attitude.

The Impact on Individuals and Society

This overreliance on qualifications can be demoralising for those without formal diplomas. It suggests their skills and experiences are less valuable, which is not only unfair but also limits opportunities for innovation and personal growth. Moreover, it perpetuates social inequality, reinforcing a system where only those who follow traditional educational paths are rewarded.

Exposing the Hypocrisy: The Qualification Excuse

Using the lack of qualifications to pay someone less is a form of exploitation. Employers know the person is capable, but they use the absence of formal credentials as a reason to offer lower compensation. This is disrespectful and undermines the true purpose of qualifications—to ensure competence, not to exploit wage gaps.

Rethinking How We Value People

It’s time for a shift in perspective. Employers should look beyond qualifications and consider practical experience, adaptability, and potential. By focusing on actual performance and contribution rather than just diplomas, we can create a fairer, more inclusive job market.

Conclusion: The Value of Diverse Paths

Qualifications alone don’t define a person’s worth. Breaking the mould and recognising the diverse ways people can acquire skills and contribute meaningfully is essential. By valuing people for their true potential, we can build a more equitable and innovative society.

For more insights into the unseen barriers of hiring practices in France, visit this post.