No diploma? Then play these strong suits

Applying without a diploma is sometimes compared to running a marathon without the necessary training or proper running shoes. Actually, that's not entirely true. While some jobs are indeed difficult without the right diploma, in certain sectors you can get started not with a piece of paper but with the right cards in your back pocket.

Positivity and passion

You may not have studied that long, but you're remarkably eager and always willing to learn. Or maybe you just really enjoy working. Let these qualities shine at your job interview. Many employers would rather have an enthusiastic and colourful person on their team than an over-qualified grey mouse.

CV and online identity

Though it may be too late for that diploma, you can ensure that your CV and your information on LinkedIn or other social media are current. Make sure that everything is up to date. Shift the focus from your CV to relevant experiences and avoid discussing your shortcomings. Perhaps stopping your studies allowed you to discover other talents? Or, do you speak several languages fluently thanks to that long journey or many years of volunteering?

Applying without a diploma is sometimes compared to running a marathon without the necessary training or proper running shoes.

Preparation and knowledge

Make sure you know the company or job you are applying for inside and out. Show that you understand not only what the job entails, but also that you've properly judged the challenges. During a conversation, this could quickly lead to a better match than having high-level studies or an impressive diploma.

Choose the right sector

As a doctor or lawyer, it's difficult to begin working without completing the right studies. Fortunately, there are many sectors where the advantages listed above are just as important as a diploma or a specific major.

The top 10 careers that do not require a diploma, according to the VDAB (Flemish Authority for Labour Market Mediation and Professional Training):

• Shop assistant
• Cleaner
• Hotel and kitchen staff
• Administrative assistant
• Construction worker
• Transporter
• Metalworker
• Secretary
• Warehouse worker
• Representative