In today's world the value of a tertiary education looks different, and limiting your company's recruitment to traditional tertiary education paths might mean missing out on exceptional talent.
Recruiting a graduate should include looking beyond conventional academic degrees and conventional places of study. Referred to as non-traditional degree holders, these individuals have earned their knowledge through alternative educational pathways such as online learning, vocational training, or competency-based programs, rather than through conventional full-time, in-person university study.
Transform yourself into a forward-thinking employer by expanding your talent pool beyond obvious disciplines. Here’s how:
Transferable Skills That Matter
Non-traditional degree holders often bring unique perspectives and valuable transferable skills to the workplace. These candidates frequently demonstrate strong analytical abilities and innovative thinking that can be applied across various business contexts. A philosophy graduate might excel in logical problem-solving and critical analysis, while an arts graduate could offer creative approaches to business challenges.
Digital Native Capabilities
Many graduates from non-traditional tertiary backgrounds have developed impressive technical capabilities, through self-directed learning and practical application. An example of this would be someone who never completed a traditional computer science degree, but taught themselves programming through online resources and subsequently built websites as a junior web developer.
These individuals often bring a fresh approach to digital solutions and demonstrate strong adaptability to new technologies. This digital fluency can be particularly valuable in roles requiring innovative thinking and technological adaptation.
Demonstrated Initiative and Adaptability
Choosing a non-traditional degree path may often indicate a willingness to think differently and take calculated risks. These graduates have typically had to justify their choices and demonstrate their value repeatedly, developing resilience and determination along the way.
Fresh Perspectives on Problem-Solving
Graduates from diverse academic backgrounds often approach problems from unique angles, bringing valuable insights to established processes. Their different educational experiences can lead to innovative solutions that might not occur to those with more traditional training. This diversity of thought can be particularly valuable in roles requiring creative problem-solving or customer-focused innovation.
Strong Communication Abilities
Many non-traditional degrees emphasise written and verbal communication skills. Graduates from interdisciplinary programmes are prone to excel at articulating complex ideas clearly and engaging with diverse audiences - crucial skills in any business environment.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Students who choose less conventional degree paths frequently display strong entrepreneurial tendencies. They're typically self-starters who have had to forge their own way and create opportunities. This mindset can be invaluable in roles requiring initiative and creative thinking.
Cross-Disciplinary Understanding
Non-traditional degree programmes often incorporate elements from multiple disciplines, creating graduates with broad knowledge bases. This cross-disciplinary understanding can be particularly valuable in roles requiring collaboration across different business functions or in positions that interface with various stakeholders.
Commitment to Continuous Learning
Graduates from non-traditional academic backgrounds often demonstrate a strong commitment to ongoing learning. Having chosen a less conventional path, they typically show enthusiasm for acquiring new skills and adapting to new challenges. This adaptability is crucial in today's rapidly changing business environment.
Cultural Awareness and Diversity
Non-traditional degree holders often bring different life experiences and perspectives to the workplace. This diversity will enhance team dynamics and contribute to a more inclusive workplace culture, leading to better problem-solving and innovation.
Are you ready to expand your talent pool and discover exceptional candidates from non-traditional academic backgrounds? Contact RAG to access our diverse database of graduates with unique skills and perspectives. Our team can help you identify candidates whose non-traditional qualifications could bring unexpected value to your organisation.
Contact us here.