What Are the Best Online Jobs?

Working from home is becoming increasingly popular especially now that the world is dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you’re a new college graduate, a stay at home mom, or an employee who recently lost your job, there are lots of legitimate online jobs out there that you could look into. In this article, we will list the 10 best online jobs.

Best Online Jobs

1. Social Media Manager

Description – Handle social media tasks for small businesses.
Average pay: $20 to $100 per hour

Many businesses don’t have the time to update their social media profiles or to respond promptly to inquiries posted via social media. That’s why they hire a social media manager to do the task for them. If you know how to post, curate, and manage content on social media, you can start looking for clients.

It would also be nice if you’re knowledgeable in paid advertising, such as Facebook ads. Businesses need new leads, and you can earn more if you know how to use micro-targeting to deliver ads to the right audience.

2. Freelance Writer

Description – Create blog posts, articles, product reviews, etc.
Average pay: $15 to $40 per hour

Now more than ever, writers are needed to create content that fill the pages of nearly every website on the internet. Although many companies have in-house writers, some hire freelance writers to write content for them, as this is a more cost-effective option. To increase your chance of being hired, you’ll need to show a portfolio or at least some writing samples.

3. Virtual Assistant

Description – Work as a remote assistant doing a broad range of tasks.
Average pay: $18 to $35 per hour

A virtual assistant (VA) is someone who does basic administrative tasks remotely (through an internet connection and a computer). Common tasks carried out by virtual assistants include answering emails, booking travel, scheduling appointments, among others.

4. Graphic Designer

Description – Design engaging graphics.
Average pay: $25 to $40 per hour

The web is becoming more and more visual, so if you have an artistic side, graphic design is an excellent way to monetize your hobby. Ideally, you should be able to incorporate multiple skills into your designs. Knowledge in branding, sales, and direct response marketing allow some graphic designers to charge more than $100 per hour.

5. Web Developer

Description – Use programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript to create websites.
Average Pay: $19 to $55 per hour

Many small business owners don’t know how to build a website or they simply don’t have the time. A web developer makes a living by building websites for others. Around 16% of web developers are self-employed according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the vast majority working at home or anywhere where there’s a laptop and a fast internet connection.

6. Proofreader

Description – Proofread books, academic papers, audio transcripts, website content, and more.
Average pay: $17.50 per hour

If you’re good at spotting typos and grammar mistakes, consider a career in proofreading. This job doesn’t need any certification; all you need is a set of eagle eyes to make some money.

7. Online English Teacher

Description – Tutor students in English.
Average pay: $14 to $22 per hour

Teaching English online has become very popular, making it one of the best work from home jobs to try and for good reason. There’s a high demand, it is flexible, and it pays well. The good news is, you don’t have to be a “real teacher” to be able to teach English online. You only need to have a good command of the English language, both written and verbal. These factors make teaching English online a good online job for almost anyone.

8. Bookkeeper

Description – Record and update financial transactions for small businesses.
Average pay: $17.50 to $40 per hour

Bookkeeping is a task that ensures that businesses properly keep track of revenues and expenses. If you like to work with numbers, you can earn a decent living in this field. Also, there are lots of opportunities to charge higher hourly rates the more you specialize.

9. SEO Professional

Description – Help businesses get found online.
Average pay: $25 to $40 per hour

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of increasing traffic to a website through organic search engine results. It is an important skill marketers have to learn because you can drive lots of revenue to a business by implementing SEO best practices. If you can show real proof of results on your resume, you could get more clients and ask a higher rate for your work.

10. Customer Service Representative

Description – Answer customers’ questions and provide information about products or services.
Average pay: $13 to $ 20 per hour

Many businesses need workers who can answer the phone, assist customers, and process orders. Since more and more companies are conducting business online, there’s a growing number of customer service representatives who work at home.

A great phone voice can definitely help, as well as experience in retail sales, data entry, or management. Of course, you’ll also need a computer, a speedy internet connection, and maybe a specific software that your future employer may provide.

Conclusion

This list of the 10 best online jobs has the ideal mix of high demand, low supply, and the potential to start earning fast. All you need to enter this line of work is a computer, a reliable internet connection, and a strong motivation to get started.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing an Employer

If you have the qualification, the will power and drive to do a job efficiently, you will get hired by any company. Your skills and personality matters too. Most people think that it is just about the employer liking you, but it can also be the other way around. In this post, we will discuss the things to consider when choosing an employer. Trust us when we say this, a good employer is what you need for mental peace and a happy work place.

Why a Good Employer Matters

The first thought that comes to mind of many people, especially fresh graduates, is to have a job right away and earn money. But keep in mind that an employer can make or break your career. When choosing an employer, you need to be sure that you can grow with the company.

Does the owner or manager seem like an uptight person who can be quite a handful? If the answer is a yes, then you must not rush. Do you feel unsure or is something holding you back? Before you accept a job offer, you should first determine the following:

Things to Consider When Choosing the Employer

1. Compensation and Benefits

Great pay and benefits are an indication of a company’s commitment to its employees. The employer should reward your efforts by paying you adequately for your time and hard work. When comparing employers, evaluate the whole compensation package, including benefits.

2. Security and Stability

Determine whether the potential employer offers job security and stability. Research the financial condition of the company, employee turnover rates, and retention efforts. It can help alleviate worries that you may lose that job or that the employer may go out of business. While nothing is guaranteed, some companies have a more solid track record than others, which can help you feel more secure and happier while employed there.

3. Communication

Does the employer treat the employees well? Sometimes, you can find reviews of the company online. There are ex-employees and present employees who rate the office hours, salary, employer behavior and work environment. You want to know how the employer is and whether he regularly interacts with the office employees. Interaction is important. Some employees may hear the news through the grapevine. Choose an employer that is open and transparent with their employees.

4. The Size of the Business

Is the employer fresh in the business field or a stable one? You must check the size of the business and whether there is scope for progressing. A bigger company would give you a better starting salary. Startups are just starting out and need some time to grow.

5. Organizational Culture

Company culture encompasses attitudes, behaviors, and shared beliefs. Look for a company whose culture suits you. But identifying the culture can be tricky, and existing employees may not be able to give you a definitive feedback. So research as much as you can about the company and, if you can, spend time in the organization to see what the culture is about.

Conclusion

Remember that you are not the only person who is desperate for that job. The employer needs you because they want productive people. Now that you know the things to consider when choosing an employer, you should take your time and go for as many interviews. Do not settle for the first company that offers you a job. Compare, ask around, and analyze the growth potential of your prospective employer.

How to Become a Sports Coach

Have you always wanted to become a coach? Coaches teach amateur or professional athletes the skills they need in order to succeed in their particular sport. Those who become coaches are knowledgeable and passionate about sports, find instructing others highly rewarding, and get a great amount of satisfaction from winning. In this post, you’ll discover how to become a sports coach.

Responsibilities of a Sports Coach

The primary responsibility of a coach is to get the best performance out of their athletes and teams. At lower levels, a coach may perform team management duties like recruiting athletes and managing the team roster. In higher levels, however, many teams have a dedicated manager who looks after such functions.

Although the duties of a coach can vary (depending on the level and type of sport), they are typically responsible for the following:

• Scouting prospective athletes and opposing teams
• Arranging training camps and try-outs
• Selecting team members from a group of prospective players
• Planning and conducting practices
• Planning fitness programs for players
• Arranging for supply and equipment acquisition
• Preparing strategies for specific games
• Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of athletes and opposing teams
• Ensuring the safety of athletes during practices and games

How to Become a Sports Coach

Coaches must have extensive knowledge of the sport they will be coaching. They usually gain knowledge of the game through their own experiences playing the sport at some level.

Most people who work as coaches start as a volunteer or work part-time with community or school-based programs. They use it as a stepping-stone to coach at a higher level.

With enough experience, coaches may move into full-time, contracted positions. Many start out as an assistant coach and then promoted as head coach if they demonstrate dedication and effectiveness in their work.

Educational Requirements

For high school-based coaching jobs, schools usually prefer to hire teachers to take on part-time jobs. Typically, coaches in such settings need to meet the educational requirements of a high school teacher.

Meanwhile, coaches at colleges and universities may be required to have a bachelor’s degree. In some cases, coaches may only be required to have a coaching certification and experience playing the sport they will be coaching.

Most sports organizations in the United States and Canada have a formal screening process for coaches. Usually, the requirements are a coaching certification and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, physical education, or Kinesiology. For more information on certification, refer to the provincial/state sporting organization that regulates the sport you’re interested in coaching.

Work Environment

Sports coaches often work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and even holidays. Full-time coaches can work 40 hours or more per week for months during the sports season. Traveling frequently for sports events is part of the job, especially in higher levels of sports. At lower levels, they may need to travel extensively to search for talented athletes.

Qualities Needed to Become a Sports Coach

To become an effective sports coach, one needs to have certain personality traits, including:

• Have a thorough knowledge of the sport
• Patience when instructing and coaching
• Enjoy working with people
• Able to direct the work of others
• Able to instill confidence in athletes
• Enjoy assessing the skill level of athletes
• Trustworthiness
• High moral and ethical standards
• Able to develop high standards of sportsmanship

Sports Coach Salary and Job Outlook

The salary of sports coaches can vary greatly depending on the sport they are coaching, level of competition, their experience, their track record of success, and many others.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for coaches was $33,780 in May 2018. It’s important to note that coaches for professional leagues earn much more than this. The annual salary for coaches for popular sports teams can reach seven figures.

The employment of coaches is projected to grow 11% from 2018 – 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Increasing participation in school sports may boost demand for coaches.

Conclusion

Sometimes, it’s not all about the money. Yes, sports coaches don’t get much, especially if they are just starting out. But passion and perseverance can pay off in the end. Gain experience and improve your coaching skills. Who knows? If your athlete or team starts winning games, chances are, a professional sports organization will take notice. If you’re an exceptionally good coach, fame and fortune may eventually follow suit. Not to mention the satisfaction you’ll get with every game that you win.

Do you want to know what career you are best suited to? Take our career aptitude test.

How to Become a Data Scientist

Data science is one of the hottest careers in the 21st century. In today’s high-tech world, many businesses have questions that can be answered by “big data”. From companies to government institutions, there is almost an infinite amount of information which can be sorted, interpreted, or applied to a wide range of purposes. In this post, you’ll learn how to become a data scientist.

What Is a Data Scientist?

Data science is a complex field that involves many different skills. Essentially, a data scientist is someone who gathers and analyzes data with the goal of reaching a conclusion. They do this through various techniques. They may present the data in a visual context, allowing a user to look for clear patterns that would not be noticeable if the information was just presented on a spreadsheet. Data scientists also create advanced algorithms that are used to determine patterns as well as convert the data into something that can be useful.

Data scientists work in different settings, but a majority of them work in office-like settings that enable people to work in teams and collaborate on projects. Much of the work may involve uploading data into the system or writing code for programs that will analyze the information.

The pace and atmosphere of the work environment will largely depend on the company and industry you work in. You could work in a fast-paced environment that would require quick results, or you could work in an organization that values methodical, detailed progress.

How to Become a Data Scientist – Education Requirements

There are many paths to land a career in data science. It’s important to note that it’s almost impossible to launch a career in this field without a college education. At the very least, you need a four-year bachelor’s degree. However, bear in mind that 73% of professionals working in this industry have a graduate degree; 38% have a PhD. If you want an advanced leadership position, you’ll have to earn either a master’s or a doctorate.

Some schools offer data science degrees. That can provide you with the necessary skills to process and analyze data, and will involve technical information related to computers, statistics, analysis techniques, and more. It will also allow you to make decisions based on your findings.

While a degree in data science is the most obvious choice, there are also technical and computer-based degrees that can help launch your career in data science. Degrees that can help you learn data science include:

• Statistics
• Computer science
• Mathematics
• Applied math
• Physics
• Social science
• Economics

After completing one or more of these degrees, you will likely have a broad range of skills which apply to data science. Such skills include experimentation, quantitative problem solving, coding, handling large sets of data, and so much more. The ability to understand people, business, and marketing is also important in data science.

Data Scientist Salary and Job Outlook

If you become a data scientist, you are poised to earn a high salary. Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t’ provide salary information for data scientists as of the moment, they do have information on computer and information research scientists. According to the BLS, the 2018 median pay for people working in that field is $118,370 per year.

Glassdoor reports that the national average salary for data scientists in the United States is $117,345 per year (as of September 2019). PayScale, meanwhile, reports that the average salary for a data scientist is $91,168 per year.

Besides earning a high salary, data scientists can look forward to more job opportunities in the future. According to the BLS, the demand for computer and information research analysts is expected to grow by 16% for the period 2018 to 2028.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to become a data scientist, you can plan ahead to achieve your career goal. As more and more businesses rely on information to make important decisions, the need for people who can compile, organize, store, and interpret information will continue to grow. For this reason, data analysts are expected to be in high demand in the foreseeable future.

Interview Hacks That You Need to Know

One of the most frightening parts in applying for a job is the interview. This is especially so for fresh graduates or those who actually haven’t tried in looking for a job. Given that there are hundreds of applicants for a few coveted job openings, the competition is surely tough. There are these fears of stuttering, tripping yourself while you walk towards the interviewer, and not being able to answer the easiest and common questions. Before you head out to your interview, here are some hacks that you need to know.

Don’t set up your interview schedule with strong candidates

Assuming you are applying together with your friends or peers that have better qualifications than you do, it is better to set up your interview on a different date. This way, you won’t be compared to them. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you aren’t as good as they are but you surely have higher chances especially if you can showcase your wit without being compared to.

Make sure to match your style to your image

You need to dress appropriately to impress. Of course this isn’t the heart and soul of the interview but your image matters. The way you dress can give a good impression to the interviewers that you are confident and can perform well in the job.

Modify your style to your interviewer

You need to tailor-fit or modify your answers depending on your interviewer. For example, if your interviewer seems to joke around, then you can exchange jokes when you have a chance. However, if the interviewer is very formal, you need to be formal as well. This has something to do with the age as well; millennial tends to be more focused on creativity and the ability to multi-task, so focus your answers on that. If the interviewer is a baby boomer, you need to emphasize on the ability to work with a team.

Find common likes and interests

The best way to connect with your interviewer is to find common interests and likes. Observe your surroundings especially if you are being interviewed in his or her office. For example, you see pictures of him playing golf and you love gold as well; try to praise him without being too obvious about it. When you share the same interests, chances are, you will be more favored because he will remember you.

Be enthusiastic

Who wouldn’t want someone who is enthusiastic to work for them? Show your interests about the company. So before going there, do a research about the company. This way, your interviewer will know that you are really interested to work for them. This becomes handy as well especially if you will be asked questions of what you know about the company.

Be honest

If there are things that you do not know, be honest. Do not pretend to be know-it-all because this will backfire to you, sooner or later. Hard-selling yourself by saying that you have specific skills which you really don’t have will have negative effects in the long run.

Brief and concise answers

Less talk, less mistakes. If you think you have answered the questions that are being asked, you can stop there. Unless there is a need for you to elaborate, you can do so but if not, it may be wise to just keep quiet.

Use these simple hacks when looking for a job. Again, practice makes perfect. Ask someone who can help you with mock interviews so you can better prepare yourself for the actual thing.

What Does a Geologist Do? – How to Become a Geologist

Before you start looking at how to become a geologist, you might want to look into what a geologist actually does. Geologists study rock formations as well as rocks and soil in various environments. This is one of the oldest sciences and is very important for a number of reasons.

What Is a Geologist?

Geology is a science concerned with the solid Earth, rocks of which it is composed, and processes by which they change over time. A geologist studies the effect of natural processes on soil and rocks as well as how rocks affect the environment around them. Rocks can have an effect on river formation, the pH of soils and even determine plants and animals that live in specific environments. Geologists also investigate volcanoes, earthquakes, and mudslides based on their studies of the earth.

Where Do Geologists Work?

Some geologists work in the petrochemical industry as prospectors. Some may work in fields related to the mining of ores including precious metals and coal. Around 25% of geologists work in fields related to the oil and gas industry. Many geologists work in engineering, technical, and advisory fields. Some may work in government departments as well as in education or research.

What Is Needed to Become a Geologist?

When you are looking at how to become a geologist, you need to ensure that you start off with a good education. A Bachelor of Science in Geology or related fields is a prerequisite. Some states in the US require geologists to be licensed or registered.

As a geologist, you need to be able to work outdoors in many different environments, some of which can be quite harsh. You need to get experience in a variety of industries such as environmental assessments, mining, and land development.

Reports and paperwork are required in this field. You must also be willing to travel depending on the type of geologist you are wanting to be. Good communication skills and ability to work in a team are also essential. You need to be analytical and technically minded. In some areas, you will also need further permits to work (such as in mines).

Is There a Demand for Geologists?

Before looking at how to become a geologist, you might also want to determine the chances of becoming gainfully employed after completing your degree and field experience. There is an increased demand of around 10% expected within a 10-year period. Most of the jobs will be fossil fuel and petrochemical related. There is already a shortage of geologists in these fields so the demand is high. These shortages may also lead to increased salaries for geologists across the oil and gas industry. There has already been a 100% increase in pay over the past decade for people working as geologists in the field.

Conclusion

Now you know how to become a geologist, what is required from you, as well as some ideas of the fields you can work in. On average, entry-level geologists earn $92,000 per year. If you are interested in rocks and the history and environmental impact of the basic components that make up our planet, then geology is a field that you may want to consider.

15 Businesses You Can Start with Little to No Capital

businesses you can start with a small capital

With today’s technology, there are lots of business you can start with little to no capital. Having an online business may be the most practical choice, but there are also other more conventional businesses that you can try. If you have little to no money but have lots of time to spare, you can consider any of the 15 businesses listed below.

Businesses You Can Start with a Small Capital

1. Virtual assistant services

Skills, laptop, and an internet connection. These are all you need if you want to become a virtual assistant. Of course, you should also be patient, diligent, and good at time management. The work can vary with each client but may include social media marketing, content writing, SEO, data entry, web development or graphic design. Some companies specialize in virtual assistant services such as Virtual Helper 247.

2. Affiliate marketing

If you have a knack for writing, have lots of followers on social media, and can have someone build you a website, you can earn extra income through affiliate marketing. It goes like this – you need to register as an affiliate on websites such as Amazon. Then, you will be provided with a special affiliate link. You have to promote a product or write a product review. Then, you have to put your affiliate link for that particular product. Whenever someone clicks and buys using that link, you will receive a commission.

3. Drop shipping

In drop shipping, you sell products online, collect the payment, pay suppliers, and let them take care of the delivery. There’s no huge startup costs or investments in inventory. There are many drop ship product suppliers. Some provide a variety of products, while others specialize in one product line. Just do your research, and you will find a reputable company.

4. Homemade soaps

Anyone who can follow directions on an online soap-making tutorial can learn how to make soaps. It involves relatively few tools and materials. Basically, you mix various forms of oil with scents and lye. You also need a mold for your soap bars, which you can buy on Amazon for an affordable price. When it comes to soaps, creative packaging and marketing are important. You can sell to friends initially, and if successful, invest in a booth at a mall or trade show.

5. Creating information products

If you are good in a specific niche, you can use that knowledge to earn some money. You can create information products like eBooks, instructional videos, or courses. Udemy is an example of a website where you can sell short courses.

6. Tutoring

Nowadays, online platforms make it easier to market tutoring services. If you can help students with academic subjects, you can sign up with Tutor.com. If you want to tutor people on a wide variety of subjects (cooking, singing, sports, etc.) try Wyzant.com.

7. Event planner

If you’re good at organizing and planning, then taking care of arrangements for birthdays or weddings can be a profitable business. You must take care of the venue, food, audio-video equipment, games, emcee, etc. Of course, you should get the approval of your clients before finalizing the details.

8. Catering

If you’ve always wanted to start a food business but don’t want to invest in a restaurant, you can consider starting your own catering business directly from your kitchen. You can use your existing cookware, then after a while, buy additional items such as pots, pans, spoons, forks, plates, glasses, knives, serviettes, serving trays, storage containers, etc.

9. Personal trainer

All of us want to be fit and healthy. However, it can be challenging to start a fitness routine, stay on track, and make sure you’re exercising correctly without injuring yourself. Your responsibilities as a personal trainer are to motivate, create an exercise program, and monitor people while they’re doing workouts.

10. Grocery delivery

Buying groceries from a supermarket or grocery store involves transportation cost, finding a parking slot, taking products from shelves one by one, and falling in line to pay. Many people find these a real hassle. This is where you come in. You can look for customers who are willing to pay for groceries to be delivered to their homes.

11. Tour guide

Tourism is a huge and profitable industry, especially during the peak season. If you know a tourist spot like the back of your hand, you can start charging tourists for a guided tour. In some cases, you may first need to get a license from the concerned government authority to become a tour guide.

12. Dog training

This is one business you can’t get into without previous experience. If you want to be a dog whisperer like Cesar Milan, a stint at a pet store or watching dog training tutorials on YouTube might help. You can start your dog training business at home to keep costs low. Dog owners can bring their pets there, or alternatively, they can call you to come over and train their dog.

13. House painting

In some states, you don’t need a license to become a painting contractor (states have different regulations, check to verify). You can learn house painting tips from YouTube, Home Depot workshops, or you can practice painting around your own home. With this type of business, you just need a few equipment – paintbrush, roller, sprayer, mask, and ladder.

14. Cleaning service

When it comes to cleaning service, you can start off with supplies and equipment you’re already using in your home. Then, as you get more clients, you can invest in specialized cleaning equipment. You may be surprised to know how many people need this kind of service.

15. Selling on eBay

Selling on eBay is a simple and straightforward business. Start by selling things in your home that you don’t use anymore. Then, use the proceeds to buy products from thrift stores that you can later resell.

Conclusion

Many big businesses started from humble beginnings. Like all great business ideas, it all starts with filling a need. Find your niche and offer the best product or service possible. These businesses you can start with a small capital are a good starting point for your dream empire.

7 Telltale Signs You Need a Career Change

All of us need a source of income to pay the bills and make ends meet. Having a job is a good thing; it means you have the necessary skills to contribute to your organization. However, many employees soon realize that they should be doing something else, a job that they enjoy and feeds their passion. Changing careers is not an easy decision. It takes a lot of courage and a little bit of soul searching. But how do you know when it’s time to give up and look for another job? Here, we enumerate seven telltale signs you need a career change.

Signs You Need a Career Change

1. You always feel worn out, exhausted and depleted.

Overly stressful jobs can easily make your body break down. It may be the type of work or toxic work environment that’s weighing down on you, but often, it’s your career that needs a shift.

If you don’t like your job, it won’t like you back. Do you get the so-called Sunday-night dread? It’s no coincidence that these anxiety attacks happen when they do. Basically, your body is telling you that it is not looking forward to what’s going to happen the next day. Chronic headaches, muscle tension, and migraines are signs it’s time for you to consider changing careers.

2. Your job is impacting your self-esteem.

Staying in a job that makes you feel bad about yourself is probably not worth it, no matter what your salary is. It can seriously impact your long term emotional well-being. A fulfilling career should boost your confidence and self-esteem, not the other way around.

3. You’re lacking energy and eternally bored.

We all have days when we lack enthusiasm and energy to do our work. But this shouldn’t be the norm every day. You may find one specific task annoying, but when you find your whole career boring, then it’s time for a change. Persistent low energy levels can also be an indication that something’s not right and work variables need a shake-up.

4. You’ve become disconnected from your passions.

Perhaps the creativity that originally enticed you to your career is no longer present. Maybe you spend more time sitting in meetings than producing anything of substance. Getting back to the reasons why you got into the line of work you’re in can help you evaluate whether you need to shift careers. Does your career still support those values or have they changed as you have grown older and more experienced?

5. You dream of a different career.

If you’re spending your time sitting at your desk daydreaming, Googling jobs, or bookmarking interesting companies in your browser, then maybe it’s time to get out of that job and into a career that interests you. Listen to your heart; maybe a career change can make it happy.

6. Your family and friends don’t recognize you anymore.

When family or close friends are noticing a big difference in your attitude or behavior, that you’re constantly stressed, complaining, and unhappy, it can be a sign that you need a career change. Whereas before they see you as someone who is passionate and inspired, now all they can see is a person with eye bags and tell stories of a nightmare boss. If getting back to your previous happy self means ditching your job, ditch it.

7. You would leave if you could.

Ask yourself this question. If you could leave your job yet remain financially secure, would you? If you answered yes, then you need to figure out how you are going to do that. Find your niche. Start thinking how to build a career or business which is aligned with your passions.

Conclusion

There may be various reasons why you want to leave your present job. Maybe it’s because of the stress involved, you don’t like the people you’re working with, or you don’t feel a sense of fulfillment. By recognizing the signs you need a career change, hopefully you can arrive at a decision that will bring renewed enthusiasm, contentment, and happiness into your life.

To know what career is right for you, take our career aptitude test.

How to Become a Graphic Designer

In our digitally advanced world, graphic designers are becoming more necessary than ever before. Think about all the logos, packaging, and branding you come across on a daily basis. Modern businesses truly depend on graphic designers to help them make a good impression in the marketplace. If you’re a creative person with an eye for design, becoming a graphic designer might be the right path for you. For those who are interested, here’s how to become a graphic designer.

What Does a Graphic Designer Do?

Graphic designers are responsible for taking ideas and turning them into visual concepts via computer software. They create a range of content in various materials – from brochures to advertisements to magazines to billboards and everything in between – striving to captivate their audience into buying a product or service. Graphic designers tend to be employed in marketing agencies, publishing firms, companies that offer virtual assistant services, and specialized design service companies. However, many graphics designers are self-employed.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Graphics Designer

While graphic designers spend a lot of time using computer software to create graphics, they have a lot of roles and responsibilities beyond the actual art itself. A typical day in the life of a graphic designer includes:

• Discussing budget, requirements, and timelines for any given project from a client.
• Determining the proper size and arrangement of illustrative material for designs.
• Managing proposals from the very beginning design phase all the way to print and production.
• Reviewing rough drafts and revising with edits and/or changes as requested from clients.
• Working with third-party vendors, such as printers, to ensure material is printed in a quality manner.

How to Become a Graphic Designer

Like any career, becoming a graphic designer takes some hard work and determination. If you’re seriously considering becoming a graphic designer, here’s a few steps to take:

1. Start with Your High School Diploma

While you’re attending high school, make sure you’re taking classes related to graphic design, such as art history, graphic arts, and various other art-related classes. You should also try to join extracurricular activities, such as producing the school yearbook, that will help prepare you for your career in graphic design. Naturally, you’ll want to make sure you achieve your high school diploma.

2. Earn a Degree

As graphic design becomes more competitive, it’s helpful to have a degree in the field. Sure, you’re able to find freelancing work without a degree, but having one will certainly give you a competitive edge. Typical coursework will cover:

• Web design
• Photography
• Principles of design
• Marketing and/or advertising

You can earn your degree online or at a school that offers graphic design courses. Be prepared to spend at a minimum, a few months, at a maximum, four years working towards your degree. Here are your options when it comes to earning a degree:

• An online certificate will often take a few months to a year to complete. This will be helpful if you are looking to freelance or start your own graphic design business.
• An associate’s degree will often require a two-year program, and if combined with an excellent, well-maintained portfolio, you will be able to find a career in graphic design.
• A bachelor’s degree will often require a four-year program with 120-180 credit hours of classes. You will have an advantage over those with an associate’s degree.
• A master’s degree will often require a two to three-year program to complete. Those who complete a master’s degree will have more opportunities for advancement in their career field.

3. Create a Portfolio

A portfolio, which is essentially a collection of previous work, is vital for any aspiring graphic designer. Make sure you’re collecting all your best work, and aside from having a physical copy, carry a digital copy on a flash drive or CD as well. Consider taking part in any internships offered through your college program. This will give you practical experience, work for your portfolio, and some professional relationships.

4. Gain Work Experience

Work experience is a crucial part of becoming a graphic designer, especially if you’ve decided not to pursue a degree of some sort. Look for entry-level artist or assistant positions that give you experience. You can also volunteer for local non-profit businesses or small organizations. Ask for letters of recommendation as payment.

Conclusion

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic designers earn a median annual wage of $48,700 (based on 2017 data). Graphic design employment is expected to grow 4% between now and 2026. It’s a great career, especially if you’re artistic and you enjoy being challenged with new tasks every day. Now that you know how to become a graphic designer, you can start taking the necessary steps to enter and be successful in this field.

15 High Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a Four-Year College Degree

high paying jobs that don't require a college degree

Having a four-year bachelor’s degree is the best way to get a high paying job. Yet, it’s undeniable that the high cost of a college education may be out of reach for some people. So what are your options? There are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. You only need to have a high school diploma or a two-year associate’s degree to be eligible for the following jobs:

High-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree

15. Brick Masons

Average Annual Salary: $51,750
Requirement: High school diploma

Brick masons lay and bind building materials, especially brick, as well as concrete blocks, cinder blocks, and mortar. They can work for construction firms or start their own business.

14. Costume Attendants

Average Annual Salary: $52,870
Requirement: High school diploma

Costume attendants enjoy the glamor of stage and screen while earning good money. They are in high demand in urban areas such as New York and Los Angeles. The job involves selecting costumes and fitting cast members before and during a performance.

13. Catering Managers

Average Annual Salary: 53,640
Requirement: High school diploma

A career in the food services sector is fast-paced and fun. This job involves planning and directing catered food occasions. Be prepared to work weekends.

12. Gas Station Operators

Average Annual Salary: $57,000
Requirement: High school diploma

As of 2017, there are about 150,000 gas stations operating in the United States, so there’s still a considerable demand for gas station operators. This job requires familiarity with various fuel products. Knowledge of basic car repair is a big plus.

11. Real Estate Agents

Average Annual Salary: $58,000
Requirement: High school diploma

There are 1.3 million real estate agents in the US as of 2017. If you want this type of job, you should be familiar with home designs, real estate contracts, and sales. The more you know, the more houses you will sell.

10. Web Developers

Average Annual Salary: $66,130
Requirement: High school diploma

Creating and designing websites remain in high demand. High school education is enough to enter this field, although an associate’s degree would be helpful. You can either work for a company as a web developer, or become a freelancer and find clients online.

9. Casino Managers

Average Annual Salary: $69,000
Requirement: High school diploma

Working as a casino manager can be a pressure-packed job, as you will be dealing with money. You will start as a casino dealer and work your way up to a higher position.

8. Transportation Vehicle Inspectors

Average Annual Salary: $72,140
Requirement: High school diploma

Transportation inspectors check and monitor vehicle performance (sedans, vans, and trucks). While only a high education is required, you must have a background in vehicle repair and construction.

7. Dental Hygienists

Average Annual Salary: $74,070
Requirement: Associate’s degree

Working in this field is stable, thanks to the steady supply of patients who need dental treatments. This job involves cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and assisting a dentist.

6. Postmasters and Mail Superintendents

Average Annual Salary: $74,840
Requirement: High school diploma

Postmasters plan, direct, and coordinate operational, administrative, management, and support services of a post office. They also coordinate the activities of workers engaged in postal services and related work.

5. Commercial Pilots

Average Annual Salary: $78,740
Requirement: High school diploma

Commercial pilots must have at least a high school diploma. If you want to fly an airplane, you must undergo flight school training and earn a commercial pilot’s license from the US Federal Aviation Administration.

4. Elevator Installers and Repair Technicians

Average Annual Salary: $79,480
Requirement: High school education

There is a high demand for elevator installers and repair technicians, while there are only 22,000 professionals in this industry as of 2017. It is expected to grow at a rate of 12.1% through 2026, thanks to the increasing number of residential, commercial, and office buildings.

3. Detectives and Criminal Investigators

Average Annual Salary: $79,970
Requirement: High school diploma

This is a specialized line of work that requires patience, diligence, and keen intuition. The growth rate for this industry is 4.5%, meaning the demand is strong for detectives and criminal investigators.

2. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators

Average Annual Salary: $93,370
Requirement: High school diploma

A career in this field is easier to obtain than you might think. Obviously, you need to undergo training, but you don’t need to have a college degree to qualify. This job involves starting/stopping reactor equipment, monitoring/adjusting controls, and implementing emergency procedures if needed. Although this job pays well, it has a low demand since the use of nuclear power is not that widespread.

1. Air Traffic Controllers

Average Annual Salary: $96,980
Requirement: Associate’s degree

Air traffic controllers guide aircraft safely through the air and help them land on the ground with no mishaps. Training is necessary.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. Even if you’re only armed with a high school diploma or an associate’s degree, you can still land a job that will pay the bills and earn you a decent living. All that’s needed is a bit of training, perseverance, and most important of all, passion for your chosen career.