[seanflyon]

> When times get tough, those without credentials usually seem to be the first to be ousted.

I have seen those without credentials having a harder time finding work, but I don't see why they would be the first to be ousted. Credentials are great for making the first cut in applying for a job, because they have to make that decision with relatively little time and effort. Credentials are also great for applying to companies that have little trust in their ability to interview candidates, but after you have been there for a while, they know what you can do. It doesn't make sense to get rid of people based on lack of credentials (and I've never seen it happen).

[toomuchtodo]

My anecdotal experience agrees with you. Also, having a decent network negates most issues "making the cut" (in the vast majority of cases).

[navr]

network, you mean - corruption?

[toomuchtodo]

Knowing decision makers who are going to bypass HR filters.

[navr]

of course it does, read my post above. Even if an uneducated person is (uneducated) Edison himself as for every Edison there is an (educated) Tesla. No exceptions allowed