Do jobs consider high school diplomas during hiring?

For someone interested in starting work straight after high school, I'm wondering how much weight employers give to the fact that you have a diploma. Is it a dealbreaker for many jobs, or does it depend on the position?

Having a high school diploma can indeed play a significant role while seeking employment. The importance of a diploma varies depending on the job and the industry.

In many industries and for most jobs, a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement. It demonstrates a fundamental level of education and commitment to completing a long-term goal, which can be appealing to employers. For instance, roles in areas such as retail, hospitality, or entry-level office jobs often require at least a high school diploma.

However, for specialized or technical roles, employers often look for specific skills or qualifications. These may include vocational training, certification programs, or relevant work experience in addition to, or sometimes in place of, a high school diploma.

It's also worth noting that while a high school diploma is often seen as a baseline, further education such as a college degree might make you more competitive for certain positions.

Therefore, while not having a high school diploma doesn't necessarily disqualify you from all jobs, it may limit your opportunities and career progression. Obtaining a high school degree or equivalent (like a GED) can undoubtedly open up more possibilities for you.