In a world of work in full change, where artificial intelligence transforms the trades and skills sought, the diploma is no longer automatically synonymous with professional success. A recent study by Indeed, in collaboration with the Censuswide Institute, shows that recruiters now favor concrete skills and experience rather than the simple academic journey.
The situation has changed: skills vs diplomas
According to the study, 66% of recruiters have changed their criteria in recent years to enhance the practical skills of candidates. Only a minority (less than 10%) has not changed its way of recruiting.
This trend is even stronger in large companies (more than 100 employees), where more than 70% of recruiters now favor concrete skills.
The importance of the diploma varies according to the age of the candidates. For those under 30, a quarter of recruiters estimates that the diploma remains essential, while 55% judge that it is as important as the skills demonstrated. In senior profiles, skills take the plunge wide: 45% of recruiters favor experience and actual skillsagainst Only 15% who continue to place the diploma as a priority.
A surprising fact: Recruiters under the age of 35, close to the release of their studies, attach the most importance to the diploma, regardless of the age of the candidates.
Students and young graduates: shared opinions
82% of students consider the diploma important to succeed, and 33% consider it very important. But less than half believe that their level of studies corresponds to the expectations of recruiters.
According to them, the main obstacles to employment are not the diplomas but:
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THE lack of experience (41%)
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there ignorance of the sector (25%)
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THE Recruiters’ prejudices (21%)
People looking for a job: the diploma is not a priority
Among job seekers, the diploma is never cited as the main obstacle: only 17% consider it an obstacle. Major brakes are:
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THE Recruiters’ prejudices (31%)
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THE lack of experience (20%)
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THE Lack of up -to -date skills (18%)
On the recruiters’ side, the main obstacles are:
A striking observation: Prejudices are still among the two main brakeseven according to the recruiters themselves.
The diploma: an asset, but not a sesame
The diploma remains a benchmark for recruiters, but it no longer guarantees competence or adaptability. He nevertheless retains a symbolic value: 53% of recruiters would be upset to see a colleague access a position without the corresponding diploma.
Ultimately, the real challenge for candidates as well as for companies lies in this delicate balance: Skills VS Diploma. To succeed today, Having a nice academic CV is no longer enough. You have to know:
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demonstrate your skills
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continually form
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adapt to changes in trades, especially in a context where AI and new tools transform work
