[Schneed10]

Touching on some earlier posts by Ghetto and FRPLG, I do have to say that when it comes to degrees and certifications and whatever, they're nice to have and certainly can open doors. But primarily, employers are looking for quality workers. Smart people who get along well with others, and who will apply themselves will always be in demand.

If you lack top notch credentials, but show a manager in your office that you are valuable, the manager's not going to care what your credentials are. I work with a woman who has been at my company for like 20 years, she has no college degree. But she's bright, and great with working databases, so she's trusted for key projects and makes like 55 or 60K. That's pretty damn good for someone without a bachelor's. She's done it by working hard and proving herself, no degree necessary.

The tough part is when you're applying for a job where nobody knows you, like when you up and move to a new city. Then all you have to rely on is the credentials.

When you really hit the jackpot is to establish that reputation with managers in your company, gaining trust, working hard, building your credibility to the point where many people know you and talk positively about you; and then you turn around and combine that with top notch credentials. You'll build a network so fast, your momentum will carry you straight to the top.