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Forbes
08-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
7 High-Income Skills That Open Doors To $100K Paying Jobs
Developing the right high-income skills is the key to unlocking $100k paying jobs. The job market is evolving rapidly, with skills-based hiring increasingly taking precedence over traditional degree requirements. A survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that nearly two thirds of employers now use skills-based hiring to identify candidates with the most potential. For professionals navigating a job search or seeking their next challenge, developing high-income skills is essential to landing roles that pay $100,000 or more. Below are seven highly sought-after skills that companies are actively hiring for, the six-figure positions they unlock and practical ways to start building them today. What Are High-Income Skills? High-income skills are specialized abilities that command premium salaries in today's job market—typically exceeding $100,000 annually. Unlike traditional career paths that rely heavily on formal degrees, these skills are valued for their direct impact on business outcomes and revenue generation. High-income skills generally fall into three main categories: These capabilities share four characteristics that make them valuable to employers: • High scarcity, high demand: Create a limited talent pool with strong employer need • Direct business impact: Drive revenue and solve critical problems • Continuous evolution: Require ongoing learning as technology advances • Strategic value: Combine technical expertise with strategic thinking Many of these abilities can be developed through online courses, certifications and hands-on practice, making $100k paying jobs achievable regardless of your educational background. 1. Data Analysis And AI Literacy Data analysis is the ability to collect, interpret and draw actionable insights from raw information to drive smarter decisions. AI literacy refers to understanding how artificial intelligence works and how to utilize AI-powered tools to enhance problem-solving and productivity. Together, these skills enable you to transform complex data into business value and leverage emerging technologies with confidence. Data-driven decisions power every industry. According to PwC's 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, workers with AI skills command a 56% wage premium--up from 25% last year. You can take beginner-friendly courses through platforms like Coursera, Google and edX. Practice with free datasets and tools like Excel, Python or Tableau to build hands-on experience. 2. Sales And Business Development Sales and business development involve identifying opportunities, building relationships and closing deals that generate revenue for an organization. These skill sets are rooted in effective communication, strategic thinking and the ability to persuade others. Successful professionals in this area help companies grow by connecting products or services with the right customers. High performers drive profit. Enterprise sales and business development roles are consistently in demand across various industries. You can read sales books, take LinkedIn Learning courses and build persuasive communication through real-world practice. 3. Project Management Project management is the process of planning, executing and overseeing projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. It requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to coordinate teams with diverse skill sets. Effective project managers keep everyone aligned, resolve conflicts and drive results from start to finish. Organizations require skilled project managers to launch products and lead teams effectively. You can get certified through PMP or Scrum programs, lead volunteer or side projects and use project management software like Asana or Trello. 4. Digital Marketing Digital marketing is the practice of promoting products, services or brands through online channels like social media, search engines, email and content marketing. It blends creativity with analytics to reach target audiences, increase engagement and measure campaign success. Digital marketers employ a range of tools and strategies to help businesses thrive in the digital age. Every business needs a digital presence. Marketers with analytics and campaign skills can command high salaries. You can try free Google Analytics Academy, create your own blog or social channel and experiment with campaigns. 5. Leadership And Communication Leadership and communication skills are about inspiring, guiding and empowering teams to achieve shared goals. Strong leaders communicate clearly, listen actively and motivate others through vision and empathy. These human-centric abilities are critical for managing change, building trust and navigating complex workplace dynamics. Soft skills, such as emotional intelligence and strategic vision, are irreplaceable, even by AI. You can take on mentorship roles, join Toastmasters, seek feedback on communication and read leadership books. 6. Software Development / Programming Software development is the craft of designing, coding and maintaining applications or systems that solve real-world problems. Programmers use languages like Python, Java or JavaScript to build everything from websites to mobile apps and enterprise solutions. This skill combines technical know-how with creative problem-solving. Software powers every sector. Top developers and engineers regularly earn six figures. You can learn through freeCodeCamp or Codecademy, build simple projects and contribute to open-source projects. 7. Cybersecurity Cybersecurity involves protecting computer systems, networks and sensitive information from digital threats such as hacking, malware and data breaches. Professionals in this field develop strategies, implement safeguards and monitor activity to prevent and respond to security incidents. As technology advances, cybersecurity experts play a vital role in safeguarding organizations and individuals. Rising cyber threats mean that security professionals are in high demand and command premium pay. You can explore free courses from Cybrary, take CompTIA Security+ certification and practice on cybersecurity challenge sites like HackTheBox and TryHackMe for hands-on experience. Network with cybersecurity professionals on LinkedIn and stay updated on the latest security trends and technologies. Ready to Develop Your High-Income Skills? These seven high-income skills represent proven pathways to $100k paying jobs across multiple industries. The key to success lies in selecting skills that align with your interests and strengths and then committing to ongoing learning and practical application. Whether you focus on technical abilities, like software development and cybersecurity, or human-centered skills, like leadership and sales, the investment in developing these capabilities will pay dividends throughout your career. Start with one skill that resonates most with you, build a foundation through structured learning and gradually expand your expertise to become indispensable in the job market.
Forbes
13-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How New Graduates Can Compete In Today's Tough Job Market
How New Graduates Can Compete In Today's Tough Job Market Entering the job market as a recent graduate is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming. With millions of similarly qualified candidates competing for a limited number of roles, a degree alone no longer guarantees a job offer. In 2023, data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) showed over two million bachelor's degrees were awarded in the United States. This influx of graduates has significantly intensified competition at the entry level, prompting employers to consider factors beyond academic qualifications when making hiring decisions. Skills-based hiring is now taking center stage, with almost two-thirds of employers reporting that they use skills-based hiring, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook 2025. Employers are gradually shifting towards candidates who demonstrate transferable competencies, such as adaptability, teamwork, and creativity. They determine how quickly individuals can integrate into fast-paced environments and operate effectively without relying on textbook theories. For years, recent graduates typically experienced lower unemployment rates than the general population, but now they face higher joblessness than the broader workforce. Between April 2022 and March 2025, unemployment for recent college graduates aged 22 to 27 jumped from 3.9% to 5.8%, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. During the same period, overall unemployment for all workers rose more modestly, from 3.7% to 4%. This trend is a result of two significant factors. First, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly more present in entry-level jobs that were once stepping stones for new graduates. Automated tools are increasingly handling tasks in marketing, customer service, data entry, and journalism, significantly narrowing the range of accessible opportunities available directly out of college. Second, recent trade policies and supply chain disruptions have strained employer budgets, particularly in the manufacturing and technology sectors, which rely heavily on global operations. Rising input costs and tighter profit margins have prompted many companies to reduce hiring, especially for entry-level positions that require training and development. With millions of graduates competing for entry-level positions, employers have become increasingly selective about their hiring decisions. While academic credentials remain important, hiring managers are prioritizing a different set of competencies when evaluating candidates. A recent survey from found that 97% of employers consider soft skills equally or more important than technical abilities. More significantly, 89% of hiring failures stem from a poor attitude or a lack of interpersonal skills, rather than technical gaps. Recent graduates who master these skills early position themselves as standout candidates in a market where everyone appears qualified on paper. Clear written and verbal communication is among the most valued workplace skills. Employers want candidates who can speak confidently, listen actively, and collaborate effectively. Poor communication usually leads to confusion, costly errors, and team breakdowns. Employers seek graduates who can analyze situations, evaluate options, and make sound decisions with limited information. They value individuals who not only follow instructions but also identify challenges and propose practical solutions. Beyond basic computer skills, mastering AI tools now can hold the same importance as proficiency in Microsoft Office. These platforms enhance productivity and creativity. Strong command of collaboration tools like Zoom and Slack is also essential in today's remote work environment. The ability to understand, interpret, and communicate data has become increasingly valuable. Employers rely on data-driven insights for decision-making, performance assessment, customer experience, and trend forecasting. Data literacy means reading charts, evaluating statistics, and extracting actionable insights that support strategic thinking. The ability to speak confidently and persuasively remains a standout skill. Whether pitching ideas, leading meetings, or presenting to executives or stakeholders, strong public speaking abilities elevate your professional presence and demonstrate leadership potential. Employers highly value candidates who embrace change and actively seek growth opportunities. Adaptability means quickly learning new skills and adjusting your approach when circumstances change. This flexibility demonstrates to employers that you're ready to evolve alongside the organization. Starting your career can feel overwhelming, especially in a crowded job market. However, by taking deliberate, practical steps early on, you can differentiate yourself and increase your chances of success. These strategies not only prepare you for your first job but also lay a strong foundation for long-term career growth. Completing your bachelor's degree remains a crucial step toward enhancing your earning potential and qualifying for more advanced roles, and it sets you apart in a competitive job market. Beyond your degree, consider pursuing certifications in areas such as project management or data analytics to demonstrate your expertise further. Additionally, attending a lecture series, reading industry journals, and participating in discussions can deepen your expertise; however, ensure that these efforts align with your career goals to maximize their impact. Instead of sending out as many applications as possible, focus on a thoughtful, well-planned approach. Having a clear strategy helps you stay organized and focused. Set a realistic timeline for your job search, such as a 60-day plan. Establish a daily routine by dedicating specific hours to your search. Concentrate on industries where your skills are most in demand and tailor each resume and cover letter to fit the job. Go a step further and reach out to potential future co-workers to learn more about the companies you're thinking about applying to, so you can discover more about the culture, the hiring process, and potentially secure an employee referral. Networking remains king in securing interviews in challenging job markets. If you're aiming for your first professional job, gaining relevant experience is key to standing out. Seek internships, even unpaid ones, as they offer valuable skills that employers highly value. Entry-level roles and internships in your target industry help build transferable skills that will benefit your future career. Additionally, volunteering provides practical experience and can give you an edge over other candidates. It's especially helpful for recent graduates or those looking to expand their skill set or switch career paths. In today's digitalized era, employers will likely look you up online before offering an interview. Build a strong professional profile on LinkedIn by including a clear headshot, work history, certifications, skills, volunteer experience, and education. Keep it active by sharing industry updates, achievements, or completed projects. Alongside this, continue to build your network by reaching out to professionals who are a few years ahead of you in your desired field and working at companies that interest you. Expanding your network early can lead to long-term success. Finally, tailor your resume for each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, and eliminate any unrelated details. A well-curated resume and online presence show that you're intentional, professional, and ready for the workplace. Keep an eye on emerging trends in your chosen field and assess whether your skills align with current market demands. Staying updated ensures you remain competitive and aware of what employers are looking for. Key skills to regularly refine include leadership, emotional intelligence, and effective communication, as these remain valuable across industries. Career success doesn't start with your first job; it starts with how you prepare for it. Develop a professional mindset early. Think beyond being a student and start acting like a future contributor. Don't wait to build key skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability. Join professional groups, attend industry events, or take a course to demonstrate your readiness before you're needed. In a dynamic job market like the current one, fresh graduates can't afford to wait for opportunities; they have to prepare early. Building a professional mindset, honing your brand, and developing essential skills will set you apart before you even apply. Early preparation isn't just about having an advantage; it's the foundation for launching a successful and sustainable career.
New Indian Express
10-06-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Why economics graduates struggle to secure high-paying jobs
The current trends in the corporate world at the advent of the AI revolution suggest that it has become highly volatile and unpredictable and is poised to evolve further. Established organisations as well as startups are leveraging data analytics services and AI and ML for automation. In such times, economics graduates, once highly in demand for their quantitative prowess, find it difficult to adapt to the changing patterns of employment in corporate jobs, which have become very competitive and require skills like data analytics, understanding of the ML algorithms, Power BI, SQL and Python. Though the skills can be learnt easily, unfortunately they are not incorporated in the economics curricula at the university level. Economics departments are hesitant to incorporate these skill based courses over the traditional courses which constitute the core of the curricula. It is because of this that students find themselves in a situation where they have to learn these skills in an unsystematic manner from random online platforms. The internet is flooded with courses on data analytics and data science, power BI, and Python, which don't serve the purpose as the majority of such content is pre-recorded and doesn't allow interaction with the instructors. This resistance shown at university departments to change their curricula and incorporate skill based courses has lowered the employability of economics graduates in the corporate world. In the age of AI revolution where companies are automating basic operations, the graduates would have to acquire advanced skills to stay industry relevant and employable. Global skill mismatch between economics graduates and what industry wants Corporates, especially in the area of consulting, marketing research, and finance, are seeking graduates with a proficiency in coding (R, Python, SQL and Power BI) for financial modelling, data visualization and skills to convert data into interactive dashboards. The traditional economics programs unevenly emphasize on the theoretical aspect of economics with minimal exposure to software and simulation, and nearly zero exposure to real time data handling techniques. As highlighted by the Institute for Competitiveness, in India, only 8.25% of economics graduates are able to secure jobs which are aligned with their studies. Similar trends are reported in other parts of the world, where employers' reveal that economics graduates lack hands-on experience with real time data handling and problem solving. A report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE, 2023) from the United States highlights that only 42% of economics graduates were able to get jobs in their relevant fields within the first six months of their graduation. Similarly, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), United Kingdom, reported that economics graduates earn 20% less than their computer science and engineering counterparts.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
20 College Majors With the Highest Mid-Career Salaries
One of the biggest decisions you'll make as you head into adulthood is your college major. Should you go for something you love? Or is it better to prioritize earning potential? Is there a way to combine both of these into the 'perfect' degree? 'Align your major with both your interests and emerging job market trends,' said Dr. Rachel Rubin, co-owner of Spark Admissions. 'Our survey found that while students are increasingly aware of income potential, long-term satisfaction and success are more likely when students pursue fields that genuinely interest them and match their strengths.' Learn More: Find Out: Figuring out your interest is one thing, but which degree will also get you the salary you need? While the average starting salary (considering all majors) is $64,291, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)'s Summer 2024 Salary Survey report, mid-career salaries can be substantially higher. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, these are the 20 highest-paying college majors at mid-career. Median mid-career salary: $125,000 Median mid-career salary: $122,000 For You: Median mid-career salary: $120,000 Median mid-career salary: $120,000 Median mid-career salary: $115,000 Median mid-career salary: $115,000 Median mid-career salary: $110,000 Median mid-career salary: $110,000 Median mid-career salary: $108,000 Median mid-career salary: $100,000 Median mid-career salary: $100,000 Median mid-career salary: $100,000 Median mid-career salary: $100,000 Median mid-career salary: $100,000 Median mid-career salary: $90,000 Median mid-career salary: $90,000 Median mid-career salary: $90,000 Median mid-career salary: $89,000 Median mid-career salary: $84,000 Median mid-career salary: $80,000 Income is an important factor in deciding upon a major, but not the only one. Something you might want to consider is the cost of getting the degree you need, how much financial aid you qualify for and your financial situation. 'If you are a middle-class student who won't qualify for (much) financial aid and are looking at paying [$25,000 to $30,000] or more per year for college, think it through. Majoring in something that you have a good chance of pursuing after college such as Nursing, is very practical, as it is a field in which there is always demand,' said Kevin Ladd, COO and co-creator of 'Majoring in Philosophy and taking out over [$100,000] in student loans could be quite risky. Either way, though, you certainly want to major in something that aligns with a career in which you feel you will be happy.' If finances aren't a major concern, you may have more options available to you. Just be sure to consider any potential loan payments alongside income potential. It's also worth comparing several colleges for tuition and other costs, as well as financial aid like scholarships or private grants. 'Naturally, I would recommend also casting a wide net with regard to colleges, so no matter which major you choose to pursue, you can compare financial aid letters and hopefully get a lot of institutional scholarships and grants,' said Ladd. 'Last, but far from least, search for outside scholarships to supplement and take out as few student loans as possible!' Be aware that your choice of major won't be the only factor in determining employability. Some companies only want you to have a degree. They don't necessarily care what it's in as long as you have the skills needed for the position. More specialized fields, like medicine or engineering, will require specific education and training. Weigh your options, think about what you enjoy and what you can see bringing you long-term satisfaction and go from there. More From GOBankingRates Surprising Items People Are Stocking Up On Before Tariff Pains Hit: Is It Smart? 7 Luxury SUVs That Will Become Affordable in 2025 5 Little-Known Ways to Make Summer Travel More Affordable 12 SUVs With the Most Reliable Engines Sources Spark Admissions, 'Dr. Rachel Rubin | Co-Founder of Spark Admissions.' Spark Admissions, 'The New Rules of College Graduate Hiring: What C-Suite Executives Really Want in 2025.' National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 'Summer 2024 Salary Survey.' Federal Reserve Bank of New York, 'The Labor Market for Recent College Graduates.' 'Kevin Ladd.' This article originally appeared on 20 College Majors With the Highest Mid-Career Salaries
Chicago Tribune
12-05-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Column: Job outlook dims for class of 2025, but upcoming graduates can improve prospects
The job market for graduating college seniors appears less bright than it did in the fall. One potential recession is increased competition and the effect of artificial intelligence are weighing on the minds of job seekers. But the class of 2025 can improve its prospects by focusing on articulating skill sets to employers and being flexible, say career services professionals and employment market researchers. The National Association of Colleges and Employers annual Job Outlook 2025 survey released in November showed employers planned to hire 7.3% more graduates from the class of 2025 than they did from the class of 2024. But the spring update revealed employers now expect to increase hires by just 0.6%. That said, most industries are hiring. But because the market is tightening, there will be more competition for jobs, association President and CEO Shawn VanDerziel said in a statement. The spring survey shows 64.6% of respondents plan to keep hiring levels the same as last year, up from 57.1% in the fall. The percent planning to increase hiring slid to 24.6% from 27%. But fewer employers plan to decrease hiring — 10.9%, down from 15.9%. 'While the job market for the class of 2025 is growing only slightly, graduates who are agile, skills focused, and proactive in building professional networks can still come out ahead,' said Darcie Campos, executive director of career services at University Park-based Governors State University. Campos has observed more apprehension among graduating seniors as they pursue their job searches, compared to last year. 'There's that economic uncertainty about a potential recession and the impact that it could have on employment,' she said. 'Graduates are thinking more about AI. They are perceiving that as a potential threat to positions down the line. Between that and student debt and trying to figure out how they're going to pay for student loans, I think there's a little bit more apprehension this year.' There were fewer employers who participated in the university's career fair this past spring — 44 compared to 59 last spring. Student participation rose 40%, said Campos. 'Students are out there,' she said. 'They are ambitious and working toward finding opportunities and doing the work that they need to do to get employment.' The university has seen fewer government agency recruiters on campus this year and an uptick from recruiters in counseling, mental health, social work and criminal justice, Campos said. The association survey revealed that among industries with the most employers projecting increases in hiring were social services, engineering services, food and beverage manufacturing, wholesale trade, management consulting and transportation. Among sectors with the fewest employers projecting increases were information, computer and electronics manufacturing, finance, insurance and real estate and motor vehicle manufacturing. Employers are relying less on grade point average and more on using skills-based hiring practices to help them identify top job candidates from the class of 2025 said Mary Gatta, the national association's director of research and public policy. It's a continuing trend. In 2019, 73.3% of employers reported using GPA as a screen. That's dropped to 38%. Sixty-four percent of employers report using skills-based hiring practices. 'Using GPA to screen, that has been falling,' said Gatta. 'What they are saying is really important is having some work experience and industry experience, doing internships and also graduates being able to demonstrate their skills and competencies.' Kaylie Dahms, who will graduate from Governors State this year with a degree in communications, has landed a job in Iowa as a news anchor and reporter. She said she applied to roughly 30 employers and received seven job offers. She completed an internship through the university's department of digital learning and media design. The internship helped her '1,000%,' she said. Gatta said a separate survey of college graduates who are early career professionals out of college one to three years found those who did some type of experiential learning, be that an internship, student employment or undergraduate research with faculty, reported faster career projection, greater career satisfaction and starting salaries $15,000 higher than students who did not do experiential learning. Campos said competition for internships has increased. 'That's what I'm hearing form students, with regards to applying and being vetted and trying to compete,' she said. 'I don't know if it's an industry shift with AI reshaping some of that landscape.' Some employers may feel they don't need as many interns and that AI can do work interns previously did, she speculated. Students are seeking internships in their sophomore and junior years. 'They're not delaying,' said Campos. 'The internship piece is very important, especially right now when competition is high.' It can help set students apart, she said. Among other advice she has for class of 2025 job seekers: diversify your job search. That includes spending time on LinkedIn, networking with faculty and advisers, alumni, current work colleagues and former supervisors who may know of a position that would be a good fit. Maximize your reach for potential opportunities. 'I can't push that enough with our students,' said Campos, who added recognize the importance of building your own personal branding. 'It's not just your resume, your cover letter, the way you interview,' she said. 'It's about how people experience you as a whole, your written communication, your interpersonal communication, the way you make someone feel when they're talking with you in a one-on-one or group setting, the presence you leave on social media, on LinkedIn.' Those factors will help others see who candidates are as professionals, she said. She also advised students not to compare themselves to others. A lot of students get so caught up in social media, looking at what their peers, friends and colleagues are doing, but it's important to remember everybody's post-graduate journey and timeline is going to be different, she said. Remain focused on your own journey, she stressed. She said it's important to be flexible; don't make the mistake of waiting for the perfect job. Sometimes graduates have in their minds specific positions, a specific employers. 'Recognize sometimes holding out for that dream job can lead to long periods of inaction,' Campos warned. 'It's important for all graduates to recognize the importance of starting somewhere, gaining experience wherever that might be and adjusting the course as they go.' Looking for a job should be a full-time job, and she advises graduating seniors to take advantage of services available through the university's Career Services office. Anthony Strickland, who will graduate with a degree in accounting this year, credits assistance from the office with helping him land an auditing position with the state of Illinois. He said Governors State Career Services staff helped him build his resume, identify his strengths and weaknesses and prepare for interviews. 'I found it very helpful,' he Strickland. 'I got directly what I needed. The mock interview set me up well and helped relieve stress.'
