Do I need my high school diploma for most jobs?

For those of you who have started working after high school, did any of your employers actually ask to see your diploma? I'm just wondering how common it is to need one when applying for jobs.

The need for a high school diploma usually depends on the type of job you're applying for. Yes, in many cases, employers do want to see that you have at least a high school education, as it's often a basic requirement for many roles. Jobs in retail, food service, and manual labor, for example, typically want to see that a potential employee has a high school diploma or GED - it serves as an indicator that the employee has a certain level of education and certain foundational skills, like basic math, communication, or problem-solving abilities.

However, it's not always a strict requirement, especially for entry-level roles. Sometimes, your skills, experience, and willingness to learn can be enough. For instance, if you've acquired relevant skills from internships, volunteering, or even hobbies, you might still be considered for certain positions.

In practical terms, while many jobs list a high school diploma as a requirement in job postings, not all employers might ask for physical proof of your high school diploma during the hiring process. However, lying about your education history on a job application is generally not advisable as employers can do background checks.

In conclusion, it varies by employer and the type of job you're targeting. If you aspire to advance in your career or delve into certain sectors like healthcare, finance, or IT - a high school diploma, and often further education, is usually required. It's advisable to consider each potential job and the specifications they require.