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Formal schooling is not always a key to skill. Most education is geared towards imparting knowledge with little application to the field target. This depends on the field as well.

Not all education is equal, though more institutions are beginning to get the hint that in order to better prepare their students for the real world, information should be useful. What good is a book of knowledge if it does not add to the quality of the work? How many people are sitting in the unemployment line with higher education and no idea how to apply it? I do not mean now with the current economy, by the way.

Experience will win out every time, considering years of skills because the person works in the industry. When you consider the numerous people employed in industries that serve, the ability to read and write is important. The degree on the wall not so, unless it specializes in that industry and will lend to the experience.

An employee who has proven his/her worth through years of faithful service deserves the right to promotion, bonuses and benefits. Especially if demonstrating the necessary skills required to fulfill the promotion. Becoming a manager for instance does not require a higher degree, but if one says they are a doctor there better be a degree.

Industry is key to this question, as most require more than a working knowledge. When dealing with another's life, money and well being, then perhaps the degree, certificate or license is important. Managing a company is not the same as brain surgery, nor is serving a meal the same as accounting.

There are proponents for both sides of this debate. Let's face it personal experience always enters into the debate. Those who are educated and paid well for their degrees are going to want to argue that education is key to promotions. Getting ahead in life relies on degrees. A degree says you know what your are talking about or doing.

All a degree really says is that the person spent hundreds of thousands of dollars, read some books and earned the degree. That is an accomplishment, it takes time, dedication and desire to get ahead. So does working long hours, coming in when sick and doing what it takes to learn how to do a great job.

Employees who excel at their position should not be held back due to a lack of degrees. On the other hand an employee who is a slacker does not deserve the promotion. Education is not the only merit in which to promote.

Learn more about this author, Connie Kirkpatrick.
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