TLC 084: Why Employers Don’t Care About Your GPA (And What They Want Instead)
Welcome to The Leadership Container, where I provide actionable ideas to help you elevate your skills as a college student or young pro. I am one myself and am on a journey to find success!
From the moment you set foot in school, a single message is drilled into your mind: Grades are the ultimate key to success.
And while there’s some truth to that, it’s far from the whole story.
Grades are important. They’re the currency that moves you through the educational system—from elementary to middle school, from high school to college. But here’s the plot twist:
At some point, your GPA becomes less relevant, and what takes center stage? Skills.
Employers today aren’t combing through decimal points on your transcript. They’re looking for proof that you can do the job. In fact, the National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that nearly two-thirds of employers now prioritize skill-based hiring for entry-level roles.
This shift is game-changing—and it’s one you need to be ready for.
So how do you prepare?
1. Prioritize Industry-Specific Skills
Grades might get you into the interview, but skills will land you the job. Research what your industry values most. For example, tech employers value coding and data analysis, while marketing roles often require expertise in tools like Adobe Creative Suite or social media analytics.
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2. Translate Skills into Employer Language
You might know how to lead a team, solve complex problems, or code a killer website, but can you communicate those skills effectively? Craft your résumé and online profiles to reflect how your skills solve real-world problems for employers.
3. Immerse Yourself in the Field
Find ways to gain experience before you even land your first role. Internships, freelance work, project-based learning, or networking with industry professionals can give you firsthand insights—and prove your value.
When you focus on building and demonstrating the right skills, you set yourself apart from the crowd.
So, yes, the education system might have almost scammed you into thinking grades were the only ticket to success. But now, you know better.
Focus on skills. Speak the employer’s language. Immerse yourself in your industry.
Do this, and you’ll not only land the job—you’ll build a future you’re genuinely proud of.
Be Great,