Education vs. Experience: What do Employers want more?

Education is an act of acquiring a particular knowledge or skill, this could be for a particular profession etc. Experience on the other hand is the knowledge and familiarity that is obtained through practical involvement.
Both are critical factors in deciding accomplishment in any field. Understanding the differences between these two important factors can help you make the most of your skills and qualifications.

Value of Experience

This means that you have done a similar task in the past that helped you to develop your skill. Hence, to get the desired job done, it is essential to have some experience in the same. It also allows us to make more accurate decisions in uncertain situations. As an old saying goes ‘practice makes perfect’ experience plays a vital part in job recruitment.

Value of Education

Educational qualifications and income are closely connected, higher degrees in general lead to higher salaries. Better-educated workers also have lower rates of unemployment. However, if you obtained your degree 15 to 20 years ago, in some fields it’s almost irrelevant now. Continuation of learning is vital to keep up with industry trends.

How do education and experience differ in the workplace?

While organisations may want candidates with both education and experience, the scope of the job and the organisation’s preference determine what they are looking for in a candidate. At times employers may prefer candidates with more experience, and in other cases, they may pick candidates with more education. It varies depending on the specific job and what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Both experience and education can help you develop new skills. While education can provide you with the theoretical knowledge to perform a job, experience allows you to put this knowledge into practice. Higher education is important in the early stages of a career. As you move along, job experience and skills can take on added advantage.