Okay, so I’m about to graduate with my Bachelor’s in Business Administration – it’s fully online. I chose the online route because I needed the flexibility to work full-time while going to school. I’m proud of myself for managing both, but I’m worried that employers might not see my degree as “real” or value it as much as a traditional degree.
My specific concern is, what can I do now, before I graduate (and after too, I guess!), to show employers that my online degree is just as good as, or even better than, a degree earned on campus? I’m particularly interested in strategies beyond just getting good grades (which I’m already focused on!). Are there specific keywords I should be using on my resume? Certain types of projects I should be highlighting? Any advice would be appreciated.
And, to add some context, I’m ultimately looking to get into project management. Does my online degree hinder me in that field, and how do I best position myself considering that background?
Answer
To make your online degree more appealing to employers, focus on demonstrating its value through strategic actions and clear communication. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Accreditation and Reputation:
- Highlight Accredited Programs: Emphasize that your online degree is from a regionally or nationally accredited institution. Accreditation signifies that the program meets certain quality standards. Prominently display the accrediting body on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Research Institution Ranking: If your institution has a positive reputation or is known for a specific program related to your field, subtly mention this without sounding boastful. For example, "Completed a Bachelor’s in Marketing from [University Name], known for its innovative digital marketing curriculum."
- Alumni Network: If the institution has a strong alumni network in your field, try to connect with alumni on LinkedIn and mention your awareness of the network in interviews. This shows you understand the potential for professional connections.
2. Demonstrate Skills and Experience:
- Focus on Practical Skills: Articulate how your online coursework translated into practical, job-relevant skills. Instead of just listing courses, describe projects, simulations, or case studies you completed and the skills you gained. For example, "Developed data analysis skills using Python and R through a capstone project analyzing consumer behavior data, resulting in actionable recommendations for a marketing campaign."
- Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your work. This could include writing samples, design projects, code repositories, or presentations, depending on your field. This is especially important for creative or technical fields.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, freelance work, or part-time jobs that align with your career goals. Online degrees can be supplemented with real-world experience to make you a more competitive candidate. Even short-term projects can demonstrate initiative and practical application of your knowledge.
- Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. For example, "Increased website traffic by 15% through SEO strategies learned in my digital marketing course." Use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your skills.
- Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasize transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, time management, and self-discipline. These are highly valued by employers and are often honed through online learning.
3. Networking and Professional Development:
- Online Communities and Forums: Actively participate in online communities, forums, and professional groups related to your field. This demonstrates your engagement with the industry and helps you stay up-to-date on the latest trends.
- Attend Virtual Conferences and Webinars: Attend virtual conferences, webinars, and online workshops to expand your knowledge and network with professionals in your field. Mention these activities on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field for informational interviews. This is a great way to learn about their experiences and gain insights into the industry.
- LinkedIn Profile Optimization: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Use keywords that are relevant to your target job titles.
- Professional Certifications: Consider obtaining professional certifications relevant to your field. These certifications can validate your skills and knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
4. Addressing Concerns About Online Learning:
- Proactive Explanation: Be prepared to address any concerns employers may have about online learning. Emphasize the self-discipline, time management skills, and technology proficiency required for online learning.
- Highlight Self-Motivation: Frame your online learning experience as a testament to your self-motivation, initiative, and ability to learn independently.
- Focus on Outcomes: Shift the focus from how you learned to what you learned and what you can do. Emphasize the skills and knowledge you gained and how they can benefit the employer.
- Address Perceived Lack of Networking: Actively counter any perception that online learning lacks networking opportunities by detailing your participation in online communities, virtual events, and informational interviews. Highlight any connections you’ve made.
5. Resume and Cover Letter Strategies:
- Clearly State the Degree: Clearly state the degree name, major, and institution on your resume.
- Highlight Relevant Coursework: Include a "Relevant Coursework" section to showcase courses that align with the job requirements.
- Tailor Your Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job application. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.
- Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments and use action verbs to describe your responsibilities.
- Proofread Carefully: Proofread your resume and cover letter carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.
- Cover Letter Emphasis: Use your cover letter to tell a story about your career journey and how your online degree has prepared you for the role. Emphasize your passion for the field and your eagerness to contribute to the company.
By focusing on these strategies, you can effectively showcase the value of your online degree and increase your appeal to potential employers.
