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Making it BIG Without a College Degree

construction worker, businessman and carpenter

By: Paul A. Greenberg

While it is often advisable to earn a college degree in your quest for occupational success, there are ways to craft a lucrative career without a degree.

By: Dawn Klingensmith

True or false: It's a good idea to go back to school in the midst of a global economic crisis If you said "True," you are correct. If you said "False," you also are correct. In times of economic uncertainty, going back to school can be the wisest course of action, but it also can be a total wash if you don't conduct a careful cost-benefit analysis.

"I think you need to be careful about what kind of debt you take on and make sure there will be an appropriate return on your investment," says Robert Wiltenburg, dean of University College, the evening and summer liberal arts program at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Concerned about job security and marketability as the economy keeps heading south, people are returning to school for advanced degrees or certification in their current fields or in fields where they expect to find greater opportunities.

By: Ann Brown

Considering taking on part-time work in addition to your full-time job? You're not alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in January more than 3.3 million people who worked full time also held an additional part-time job.

But moonlighting can be taxing -- both mentally and physically. And juggling the extra work load could put your career at risk. So before looking in the want-ads, be sure to be prepared. First, read your employee handbook and check with your employer. Some companies frown upon moonlighting, especially if the part-time position is for a competitor or in the same industry.

By: Bill Fenson

Telecommuting has become increasingly more important for both employers and employees, in the midst of the current global economic crisis. Telework can save money for everyone, reduce the need for additional real estate or rental space, and expand the job search of candidates beyond their own local area.

By: Kyle Arnold

With the stress of searching job listings, manufacturing a new resume and finding references, unemployment can become a full-time job. But by the time those first job interviews start rolling in, there may be something missing from the resume: a few months or more of employment. "Being unemployed usually isn't going to help you get a job for sure," said Doug Morrison, president of Anspire, a Tulsa-based staffing and recruiting firm.

But many recruiters and employment experts say that gap can turn into an opportunity, whether it's gaining skills in a new field, updating certifications or finding time to hit the gym.

By: Zayda Rivera

A double-edged sword, feedback can be viewed in both positive and negative ways if you don't know how to properly receive it. But overall, feedback should be used as a positive resource, something that can advance one's career.