We’ve all been there before. We’re sitting at our job staring off into space, wondering what it would be like if we chose another career path. It’s not uncommon to consider switching it up.
Someone might consider changing their career if they’ve reached a stagnant point in their job, are not feeling fulfilled in their day-to-day work life, or want to work in a field that makes more money.
If you’re contemplating a career change, here are five high-paying jobs you could consider based upon your skills, qualifications, and experience.
Real Estate Agent
One of the easiest jobs to get into when making a career shift is within the real estate business. No degree is required to become a real estate agent, and you can make a lot of money if you enjoy and are good at sales.
Start by searching your state’s requirements. You’ll take a prelicensing course and then take the licensing exam. Just like that, you’ll be on your way to starting a new career.
Many times, agencies will pay for your licensing and provide training for you as well. No matter the state of the housing market, agencies are always looking to add on new employees because it’s primarily a commission-based salary. The best part is that your schedule is flexible. You decide how often and for how long you want to work. In 2020, the median income for a real estate agent who worked about 40 hours per week was around $68.000 per year.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
If you’re good with numbers, becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) may just be the job for you. Making a career shift to becoming a CPA is an incredibly lucrative job that could pay anywhere from $70,000 to $150,000 per year. There are online CPA courses available that work with your schedule and your budget.
Software Developer
For those with a background in math, design, or engineering who are changing careers, becoming a software developer is an option you’ll want to look at. More people are finding that to make the switch, all they need to do is take a refresher course on coding, as some things have changed since they last took a class.
Becoming a software developer, especially if you have some previous experience or knowledge, can start off paying anywhere from $60,000 to $100,000 per year.
Anesthesiologist
One of the highest paying jobs in the country is the work of anesthesiologists. There are several different types and it could be an incredible opportunity for someone who has experience in the medical field.
While this would require you to go back to school to meet certain requirements, it would be significantly less difficult for someone who currently works at a hospital or doctor’s office.
As the highest paying job in the United States, anesthesiologists make around $262,000 per year, even higher than the average surgeon.
Marketing Manager or Consultant
Marketing is just as much a creative job as it is analytical. Most people don’t know that no matter what industry you’ve been in, there is some level that can be applied to the marketing field.
Marketing managers can make around $81,000 per year when starting out with a new company. This is a great move for someone who may have worked in fundraising, nonprofit work, design, or advertising.
Before deciding to make a career shift, contemplate the reasons why you’d want to make the change in the first place. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone. There are career counseling services that are available in most cities with professionals that can help guide you on the right path.
You can also seek advice from a close friend or family member who knows you best. They may have insight that can help.
