Lack of qualifications holding back from career success

LONDON, UK: Jobseekers are finding it hard to stand out in a competitive market, with 32 percent believing a lack of qualifications is holding them back, according to research by Home Learning College and reed.co.uk.

The survey also provided further evidence that higher education is no guarantee of success, with 21 percent saying their degree has not benefited their career. This explains why 54 percent plan to enhance their employment prospects through further study.

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The research showed that the economic climate is creating a mixed bag of emotions for candidates. Although 62 percent are confident they will get the job they want in the next six months, 28 percent admit to being frustrated with their current situation.

Home Learning College is the UK’s biggest provider of vocational distance learning, with over 65,000 students. The partnership with recruitment website reed.co.uk provides a valuable training resource for jobseekers in need of information and advice about their study options.

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"The volume of applications for each vacancy means that employers are paying greater attention to candidates’ educational history," says Dave Snow, academic director at Home Learning College.

"Ambitious jobseekers are recognising that targeted vocational qualifications can add real value to their CV, helping to underpin and expand existing skills and experience," added Snow.

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Andy Wilson, head of learning & partnerships at reed.co.uk, comments: "At reed.co.uk, we're seeing confidence slowly creep back into the jobs market, but for many jobseekers the situation remains challenging. By equipping our audience with access to learning opportunities, we're giving them the chance to stand out from the competition and gain a real advantage in achieving their career goals."

The survey was conducted among over 4,000 active reed.co.uk jobseekers. Of these, 48 percent are currently in employment.