In today’s day and age, the demand for highly-skilled individuals is perpetually increasing. Thus the need for high-income skills follows. While earning a credited degree through a university is an excellent option and can improve your earning potential, adding a high-income skill can set you apart from others in the job market.
So what actually is a high-income skill? A high-income skill is a personal proficiency that you can leverage to earn a higher wage, potentially in the six figures. It is the skills and knowledge that employers tend to value highly.
Often these are skills that you can learn by yourself, such as by a course or with consistent practice. They are constantly new and evolving, and as such needs to be carefully examined. For example, since the emergence of the internet, software and web developers have been in demand.
Why learn a high-income skill? The main driving factor of learning a high-income skill is earning potential. It incentivizes employers to pay you higher wages due to your expertise. It is the best way to propel your career. However, finding the correct skill catered to you can be confusing at first. Let’s look at 9 high-income skills that you can learn to make more money.
1. Software Development
The median salary of a software developer is $120,730.
As I mentioned before, since the initial boom of the internet, employers are constantly needing web experts. In particular, software development is needed as they develop the very internet we reside on.
Software developers engineer operating programs that we utilize for various things. With so many aspects of life being computerized, there is a growing demand for the people who create and run the code.
This job position, although usually achieved through a four year degree, can be attained through alternative methods. Websites such as EdX and Udemy offer courses to teach you the ins and outs of coding in a timely manner. Additionally, companies such as Google and Apple no longer require a degree to get a job for them.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The median salary of an artificial intelligence engineer is $131,490.
Artificial intelligence has always been seen as a future and distant concept, and has often been portrayed in unrealistic sci-fi films as evil. I can assure you that this is not the case, and that AI is a recently-ventured technology that has provided numerous benefits to those who use it.
It is a technology that allows machines to learn from various sources of data and make decisions independently. You may have heard of ChatGPT, which people utilize to get information and advice.
As the demand for artificial intelligence grows, so does the demand for individuals with deep knowledge regarding it. Businesses and companies are now in need of AI for numerous things. This includes automating customer service, security systems, and various tasks and processes.
To become an expert in artificial intelligence, you must become knowledgable in all of the latest AI systems, as well as understand the fundamentals of programming and machine learning.
3. Data Science
The median salary of a data scientist is $100,910.
Data science is one of the most lucrative high-income skills to learn. It is essentially the field of study that utilizes scientific methods, systems, and algorithms to research and understand datasets and uncover trends and patterns to gain valuable insight and knowledge.
Data science professionals are in increasing demand, as companies are constantly attempting to use data to make informed decisions and optimize their processes.
To become a data scientist, you need to become educated in statistics, mathematics, computer science, and in various data analysis programs (such as Python). Similar to artificial engineers, data scientists must also have a grasp on machine learning algorithms. With the correct skills, data scientists can enjoy a well-paying career.
4. Digital Marketing
The median salary of a digital marketer is $122,045.
Companies have spent countless hours and resources on developing and perfecting their product. However, they must now market it. That’s where digital marketers come in.
Digital marketers leverage digital technologies and platforms to promote a business or product. With the help of digital marketers, companies can engage potential customers and reach a wider audience.
In 2023, a strong social media presence is almost necessary for any company. It is an excellent way to increase visibility. A successful digital marketing strategy utilizes tactics such as email marketing. Understanding and using the various digital tools and strategies to maximize the effectiveness of your efforts is crucial for any digital marketer.
5. Copywriting
The average base salary for a copywriter is $60,461.
A copywriter is a specialized individual that is responsible for writing and proofreading the text that is used for advertising and marketing. It is a high-income skill that has you creating compelling text that hooks readers and engages them in the product/service.
The majority of the advertisements you see online and in person are the work of a copywriter trying to persuade you to buy something. Whether it’s an ad on social media, a product’s description, or a call-to-action, businesses need copywriters to effectively sell their products.
Copywriters are often paid in commissions or percentages in sales, or through a flat fee. If a copywriter is able to work with a large company or product, then they can easily rake in six figures for minimal work.
6. Content Creation
The average salary of a content creator is $115,733. It should be noted that this will almost never be achieved initially, and will usually take time to achieve your first earnings.
In an era where media consumption is almost entirely online, many individuals are constantly seeking informative and engaging content to captivate audiences. Content creators are in high demand for creating informational media, marketing campaigns, or for the following they build.
It is a profession that empowers people to earn a lucrative source of income from various sources, such as from their own digital entrepreneurship path, content marketing, or through freelancing.
The best part is that most of the time content creators are allowed to express their creativity and passion. They can incorporate their own element to their work and be in control.
7. Sales
The average base salary for a sales representative is $73,598.
Many successful entrepreneurs will tell you that sales is one of the most important skills to learn if you are interested in business or entrepreneurship. Sales representative use effective communication and proper engagement with the client to close deals.
Good sales representatives know how to actively listen, have empathy, and become educated on their product/service. A prime example of a sales person is a real estate agent, who you might consider to be heavily knowledgable and professional. These individuals have learned multiple methods and strategies of sales that they use to conduct business.
Sales can be used for other things besides just selling things. It can be used for effective communication (such as helping you to become a better listener), learning how to ask questions (and how to answer them), as well as gaining confidence.
8. Learning Search-Engine-Optimization (SEO)
The average salary for a search-engine-optimization specialist is $65,435.
Businesses often struggle with having an online presence. They want to be seen online but can’t seem to find the best practices to do so. By having proper search-engine-optimization (SEO), businesses can get themselves (and their product) out there.
SEO professionals learn and utilize the best methods for getting a business traction in the online space, such as ranking high on Google search results. Say, for example, that someone is looking up “best gym shorts” to look for the best gym shorts to purchase. By ranking higher in the search results, businesses reach more potential customers and consequently earn more sales.
9. Project Management
The average base salary for a project manager is $87,184.
A project manager is an individual that plans, organizes, and executes projects within an allotted budget and schedule. They lead teams, define goals, and ensure that a project is completed efficiently and effectively. They are responsible for numerous tasks, such as creating a budget and troubleshooting.
Project managers must have multiple desirable traits to succeed. Among these are leadership, critical thinking, communication, and organization.
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