What are some of the most versatile & powerful credentials to boost one's "brand" in the employment world? (degrees, degree)

[DwellerofCities]

Here's some examples of what I mean:

Law degree grads seem to have a lot of options in multiple industries -- outside of merely practicing law
MBA graduates seem to have a lot of options in multiple industries as well
Ivy League graduates seem to have a lot of options regardless of what they major in
Computer Science majors seems to command a lot of options/respect even outside of computer science
A PhD seems to open doors even outside of one's specific field
Etc...

Basically, I'm asking what credentials one can invest in to significantly boost their career brand, regardless of any particular intended outcome. What are some credentials that give people a lot of options and leverage, even outside of a particular specialization? It doesn't have to be degree-related necessarily, though it obviously can be -- perhaps it's a certification, a particular type of experience, etc.

I've only just begun to look at career in this way.

[leadingedge04]

Customer Service-- seems to branch out a lot.

[Vision67]

A challenging university degree is a demonstration of cognitive ability and grit. For that reason alone, many companies require degrees even though you might not actually use the specific skills.

For example, many engineers end up on Wall Street. Investment Banking has little to do with engineering. However, if you have what it takes to get your engineering degree from a school like Georgia Tech or U Cal Berkeley, you're in.

[MLSFan]

the credentials that you dont see, that arent written after your name

skills like networking, knowing how to manage people/resources, being rich. yes, being rich is a credential, rich people like being around other rich people, so at least dress and act the part

[liveurdream]

Sell yourself and know people. My degree is from a small school and work around people with degrees all the way from Harvard small schools.

[scend57]

1. Your looks (huuuuge! especially for ladies)
2. Height (for the guys)
3. Your social skills/likeability (for everyone)
4. Your age (younger is better)
5. Connections/friends inside the company or industry

Just off the top of my head, those are probably the biggest ones that "won't show up on a resume". If I had to guess I would say #1 and #5 are the most important in today's cut-throat employment world.

If you got looks and connections? You will go far in the work world, I have seen it over and over again I've observed at least 3 different people that didn't even go to college, yet command good salaries and "higher up" positions due solely to connections