Skills Required, Beyond Degree: The Real Drivers of Career Growth In today’s competitive job market, especially across developing countries, a university degree is no longer a guaranteed ticket to career success. While formal education provides foundational knowledge, employers increasingly prioritize practical skills, adaptability, and real-world problem-solving. According to the India Skills Report 2025 , only 54.8% of graduates are considered employable, and a staggering 63% of the workforce will need reskilling by 2030. This shift reflects a global trend: companies now hire based on what candidates can do—not just what they studied. In fact, Naukri.com reports that 81% of companies in 2026 prefer skill-based hiring over degree-based recruitment. For non-tech college students, early professionals, and mid-level career builders, this means one thing: mastering the right skills beyond your degree can double your chances of selection and long-term career growth. So, what are these sk...