job growth

10 Fastest Growing Jobs That Didn't Exist 10 Years Ago

Carrie Kirby — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 08:30:10 +0000

A decade ago, social media was young, mommy-blogging was a hot new trend, and — oh yes — the economy was falling apart. Millions of us lost our jobs. Now that the job market is strong again and unemployment is low, some of the hottest occupations are lines of work that either didn't exist or were little known back in the first decade of the century.

If you're looking for a new career, why not look at one of these new, fast-growing fields? (See also: 9 High-Paying Jobs That Didn't Exist 10 Years Ago)

1. Drone operator

Opportunities include photography and film, inspecting tall buildings, and mapping difficult-to-reach areas. Amazon is experimenting with package delivery by drone, while Facebook is experimenting with using drones to bring internet access to remote areas. With the expected growth in drone use, today's operators could also find work training and certifying tomorrow's operators.

Growth expected by 2021: 1,000 percent.
Requirements: FAA certification, possibly short training programs.
Median pay: $52,000.

2. Machine learning engineer

Machine learning is basically another way of saying artificial intelligence, a field where the overall job openings have grown 450 percent since 2013, according to the 2017 Artificial Intelligence Index. This kind of engineer is a ninja programmer who is probably also a math whiz.

But wait, you may say: Everyone knows that AI is going to destroy jobs, not create them. Not necessarily. Research and advisory company Gartner estimates that AI will create 2.3 million jobs by 2020, eclipsing the 1.8 million it's expected to eliminate.

Growth since 2012: 980 percent.
Requirements: BS or MS in computer science.
Median pay: $116,000.

3. Data scientist

This type of engineer analyzes data produced by websites, apps, computer sales systems, and more, answering business questions or finding trends. The word analytics is sometimes used interchangeably with data science to describe this work. Data scientists usually need to know a statistical programming language, such as Python, as well as a database querying language such as SQL.

The roles of machine learning engineer and data scientist are closely linked; machine learning engineers on LinkedIn are likely to list data scientist as their previous job title, and "machine learning" is one of the top skills listed by data scientists.

Growth since 2012: 650 percent.
Requirements: BS, MS, or Ph.D. in statistics, computer science, math, or data science.
Median pay: $91,212.

4. Solar panel installer

Although jobs for college graduates have led the recovery since the recession, here's one that requires little education. This is the person installing the solar panels on your roof. This job is growing because the solar industry is hot, producing 24.5 percent growth in all solar-related jobs in 2016.

Growth expected through 2026: 105 percent.
Requirements: High school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly tech school courses.
Median pay: $39,240.

5. App developer

Ten years ago, the iPhone was new, and not everyone knew what an app was. Now almost 77 percent of Americans own a smartphone, and my 90-year-old grandma downloads a new slot machine app every week. Short training programs for app programmers have sprung up in San Francisco that turn out graduates in a year or less. These developers go on to make six figures and often get company equity at their first job.

Growth expected through 2026: 31 percent.
Requirements: BS in computer science or software engineering, or programming boot camp.
Median pay: $106,710.

6. Genetic counselor

There was such a job as genetic counselor 10 years ago, but people with that title today wouldn't recognize it as the same thing. In the past, genetic counseling consisted of interpreting just a few available tests and sharing the results with patients. Today, so much data is available on an individual's genetics that the job has a larger technical component. Part of the expansion of this job is driven by the growth in genetic testing kits available directly to the public.

Growth expected through 2026: 29 percent.
Requirements: MS in genetics or genetic counseling, board certification, state licensing.
Median pay: $74,120.

7. Operations research analyst

These brainiacs use advanced math and analytical methods to solve business and organization problems. There is some overlap between this job and data science. It's also so closely linked to the fields of analytics and data mining that some consider the words interchangeable. The upshot: If you know how to crunch numbers and get important insights out of huge amounts of data, you're going to be in demand, no matter what you call yourself.

Growth expected through 2026: 27 percent.
Requirements: BS or MS in business, operations research, math, analytics, or computer science.
Median pay: $79,200.

8. Telemedicine physician

Like many jobs on the list, this field is driven by the ubiquity of high speed internet. Patients are increasingly given the option to video conference with a physician and get a diagnosis or referral to a specialist. Hospitals and medical groups are hiring more doctors comfortable with telemedicine, because the practice saves money and results in better access to specialists, less wait time, and less spread of disease from waiting room contact.

Physicians who want to become telemedicine practitioners may need to learn to use connected versions of tools they already know, such as thermometers and stethoscopes.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 13 percent growth for all physicians through 2026, and that includes tele-physicians. However, given how quickly telemedicine is growing, it's reasonable to assume that this niche will grow faster than doctor jobs as a whole.

Growth expected through 2026: 13 percent or more.
Requirements: MD, board certification, medical license.
Median pay: $200,500.

9. Health information technician

With the growth in online medical records, professionals who are well versed in medical coding for insurance claims and organizing and securing medical records are needed.

Growth expected through 2026: 13 percent.
Requirements: Tech school training program.
Median pay: $38,040.

10. Social media manager

Nearly every brand — from baked goods to airlines to government agencies — now hire specialists to represent them on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and others. These workers might create and post content, moderate discussions, collect and respond to customer feedback, and use analytics software to monitor the brand's image and activity across all social media platforms.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lumps social media specialists in with public relations workers, and rates job growth for the whole field at 9 percent. However, since social media continues to be a hot growth field, it's reasonable to assume that social media jobs are growing faster than other PR jobs.

Growth expected by 2026: 9 percent or more.
Requirements: BS in communications, public relations, journalism, or marketing.
Median annual wage: $56,770.

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This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Old-School Jobs That Are Making a Comeback

Paul Michael — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 09:00:06 +0000

The old saying, "What goes around comes around" seems to apply to many aspects of life, and careers are no exception. Although many jobs have gone the way of the dinosaurs, some have been clinging on. And now, the pendulum is swinging the other way — several jobs thought to be on death row are currently enjoying a great resurgence. (See also: 8 Great Jobs for the Next 10 Years)

1. Leatherworker

The rise of websites like Etsy, Folksy, and Bonanza have given skilled leather craftspeople an outlet to sell their wares without the baggage of traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Consumers are no longer happy with mass-produced products. Instead, they're looking for work from real artisans; something that screams originality, quality, and personal service.

From purses and leather-bound books, to briefcases, luggage, tool belts, and wallets, it's an industry that is no longer considered a hobby or a dying art. Obviously, the salary for this kind of trade varies greatly depending on the items being produced, the client, time spent, and quality of the materials. Payscale has the top end salary at close to $80,000 a year.

2. Barber

There is a big difference between a hair stylist and a barber. Hair stylists specialize in elaborate cuts, colors, highlights, treatments, and the latest looks. They have seen steady work over the years, and their clientele is mostly female. Barbers, on the other hand, cater primarily to men, offering a simpler range of cuts, plus shaving and beard/mustache trimming.

The barber's pole has been sadly lacking from malls and city centers over the last few decades, but the career is on the up. Men are wearing beards and facial hair, and are looking for experts in that craft. They also want to embrace the more traditional cuts of the past. While barbers generally get paid less than hair stylists, they can see more clients in a day, and some can earn as much as $70,000 a year.

3. Carpenter

It's great to see carpentry coming back into style after years of consumer neglect. With the advent of cheap, assemble-it-yourself furniture, people began to balk at the prices of well-made tables or bookcases. But thankfully, quality is back in style.

Carpenters are seeing much more work coming their way, with custom requests for cabinets, tables, doors, rocking horses, and all kinds of other beautiful creations. While the hourly rate for a carpenter can vary wildly — between $13 and $32 — some skilled woodworkers can earn upward of $72,000 a year doing a job they genuinely love.

4. Cartographer

Maps are big business. The increasing use of detailed maps and geographic information in government planning has caused this seemingly dull industry to boom. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that jobs in cartography and photogrammetry will grow a whopping 19 percent over the next eight years, much higher than the average growth rate for other occupations. It's also a job that can get you out of the office on regular intervals, with extensive travel required to locations that are being mapped and surveyed.

In 2016, median pay for this industry was over $62,000 per year, and it's on the rise. You will need a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, or surveying to land a position.

5. Food cart/truck operator

For a while there, people who made a living selling food on the side of the street had it really tough. But now, the industry is exploding. Gourmet food trucks and carts are experiencing huge demand in towns and cities throughout America. The impact of social media, plus food review sites like Yelp, have made it possible for entrepreneur chefs to go it alone and make a solid living.

Startup businesses and "cool" workplaces (think Google, Apple, and Pixar) often bring gourmet food trucks in to feed the workers, and business owners can spread the word using Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. There are probably a whole bunch of different mobile gourmet selections near you right now.

6. Sign painter

Before the introduction of vinyl cut lettering and machined acrylic signage, a hand-painted sign was a must-have for any business. But as automation took over, the quick, perfect, and cheap results that could be achieved from machines meant a lot of sign painters had to retrain as graphic designers and commercial artists. However, that is changing.

The growth of small businesses that want a more organic and natural look and feel to their operation means hand-painted signs are back with a vengeance. The slight imperfections and unique designs portray a business that is less corporate and more friendly and approachable. Not only that, but hand-painted murals inside and outside of buildings are hot property, too. And while the average pay for a sign artist is just over $40,000 a year, a skilled sign and mural painter can easily earn more, traveling around the world for international clients and exhibits.

7. Cheesemaker

Another artisanal industry that was ravaged by automation, cheese-making is becoming bigger thanks to the demand by millennials and gastronomes for rich, deep flavors and far more variety. Even a quick glance at the cheese counter in your local grocery store will show you just how much the choice of cheeses has grown.

Now, this is translating to small businesses growing around the country, offering premium quality cheeses that pair beautifully with wines and craft beers. If you have an interest in becoming a cheesemaker, you'll need expert training. Luckily, the Cheese Society has a wealth of information for you. Established cheesemakers can earn over $60,000 a year.

8. Cobbler

Also known as a shoe repairer or shoemaker, this career was popular until the automation and production of shoes made the prices drop drastically. Few people were willing to spend hundreds for a pair of shoes when they could get a cheap pair from a department store. However, a few things have changed that.

First, the reduce/reuse/recycle movement has made people more aware of the waste we have in our society. Isn't it better to repair worn out shoes than to replace them? Also, consumers increasingly want quality over price when it comes to footwear, and now see a pair of good shoes as a necessary purchase. While simple shoe repair brings in around $25,000 a year, shoemakers can earn six-figure salaries.

9. Brewer

Remember when you'd go to the liquor store and have about 10 beers to choose from? That has all changed. Craft beers are huge, and the need for experienced brewers in microbreweries around the country is surging.

According to the Brewers Association, in 2016 alone, small and independent U.S. craft brewers contributed a whopping $67.8 billion to the economy and added more than 456,000 full-time equivalent jobs. If you have a skill for brewing a mighty pint of ale, this is a fantastic time to look into it as a career.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Quick Ways to Retrain for a New Career

Carrie Kirby — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 09:00:07 +0000

You need more than an entry-level job to pay the bills, but you don't have the time or funds to get a four-year college degree. Or maybe you already have a college degree, but it's not helping you find work. You could be a stay-at-home parent re-entering the workforce, or a midlevel manager who's sick of your industry and wants to start fresh.

If this sounds familiar, you could soon be one of the most in-demand types of workers in America: the "middle skill" worker. More than half of all available jobs fall into this category. These are jobs that require more than a high school diploma, but less than a college degree — whether it's a certificate program, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training.

If you're ready to switch gears and retrain for a new gig, there are some fast and affordable ways to do that.

1. Pinpoint your target job

Even if you need to get retrained quickly, that doesn't mean you should skip the planning stage. Do not enroll in a training program without knowing what job you're going for and how much it would pay.

If you haven't chosen a target industry yet, look at the ones with the highest-paying jobs that don't require a college degree. Once, these jobs were mostly found in manufacturing, but now they're more likely to be in the "skilled services industries," such as health care, finance, and information technology.

Georgetown University lists the top industries and occupations in each state that don't require a BA; in Pennsylvania, for instance, the top industries are manufacturing and health services, and the top occupation is office and administrative support (median earnings: $51,000). You can also check the resources offered by your state development department; California, for example, lists the most in-demand middle skill occupations for each region. Also think about the job's future; check job growth projections and find out which workers may be replaced by robots.

Besides this online research, you should get the word on the street in your community. Ask your friends and family what type of jobs their employers have trouble filling, what those jobs are like, and what they pay. Visit your local job center and study the openings.

Finally, consider working with a vocational counselor or career coach who could guide you. If you recently lost your job, your local workforce agency or your former employer might provide you with this kind of help for free. If not, it may be worth the money to hire one out of pocket. Make sure you find a counselor with experience in the middle-skills market — not an executive recruiter or coach — and make it clear what you want out of the relationship before you start.

2. Focus on fit

Once you have a list of promising jobs you could train for, cross out those that you know you don't have the aptitude for or would hate. If you're a couch potato, there's probably no point in trying to get certified as a personal trainer. Ask yourself which jobs could make good use of your soft skills or transferable skills from previous jobs. Take an aptitude test if you don't already know what you're best at. (See also: 15 Soft Skills Every Employer Values)

3. Find the right training program

Local research is probably your best friend here, too. If you can land an informational interview at a prospective employer, find out what certificate, associate degree, or other training they look for or require. Ask contacts who are already in your desired field where they trained and if they would recommend it.

Perhaps the most important question you can ask about a job training program is whether it is connected with local companies that hire graduates. Programs codeveloped by hiring companies, or otherwise "demand driven," produce graduates with higher employment rates.

Having teachers who work full-time in the industry can be a plus, too; when my husband was training to be a video game artist, he ended up getting hired as a part-time game tester by one of his teachers, and that job later led to a full-time artist position.

You should also research potential schools and programs online. Is the program recognized by a national association for the field? What do students say about the program in forums? Has the school been targeted by student lawsuits for fraud or does it have other bad press? What is the school's graduation and employment rate? (See also: Are Online Certifications Worth the Price?)

4. Don't forget the trades

Deciding to become a plumber, electrician, or carpenter isn't a quick fix. It takes four years of apprenticeship, for example, to become a licensed journeyman electrician. That's after passing the union application exam, which many people spend months or years preparing for. On the other hand, you can earn while you learn; the average apprentice electrician earns around $35,000 a year. (See also: 5 Jobs That Pay Over $50K and Don't Require a Bachelor's Degree)

5. Try temping

Registering with one or more temporary agencies can be more than a way to make ends meet while researching your career move; it can be a way of conducting that research. Think about it: If you apply for a job or even attend a job interview, you get a very limited peek inside the company. But as a temp, you'll spend all day on the inside. You could be exposed to job roles you might not have even known about. Ask questions of everyone you work with, from the agency staff, to your on-site supervisor, to co-workers.

6. Look for retraining opportunities within your current company

If you like where you work, try to get trained for a better job within the organization. You might approach a manager about this, or you could ask human resources what education programs the company has.

You might also discreetly talk to other managers, or browse internal job listings. I recently met someone who had been driving a forklift at a large grocery warehouse, until the company paid for her to get trained in refrigerator/freezer repair. Now she makes more money and has more job satisfaction, without ever having to interview for a new job.

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This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Jobs That Pay Over $50K and Don't Require a Bachelor's Degree

Kat Tretina — Tue, 09 Jan 2018 09:30:10 +0000

Growing up, you probably heard the same thing from parents, teachers, and friends: You need a four-year college degree to earn a good living. However, that's not always true. Although higher education can be valuable, the high cost of tuition makes going to college cost-prohibitive for many. Students increasingly rely on loans to pay for school and are saddled with crippling debt for years after graduating.

Thankfully, you don't necessarily need a bachelor's degree to earn a comfortable salary. Several fields pay above-average wages while only requiring an associate degree or high school diploma. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean salary in the U.S. as of 2016 was $49,630. Each of the jobs on this list pays more than the national mean; in fact, you could earn nearly double that number. (See also: 4 Low-Cost Alternatives to a 4-Year Degree)

1. Electrician

The nation is currently facing a nationwide shortage of skilled workers, particularly electricians. Thousands of baby boomers, including skilled electricians, are retiring. At the same time, outdated, negative stereotypes about blue-collar jobs persist. The result is that fewer people are entering the field, leaving companies scrambling to hire what workers they can find.

That demand can work in your favor. Electricians need a high school diploma, and you will have to complete either a trade program or an apprenticeship. However, because there is such a shortage of candidates, many companies are paying entry-level workers to receive their education and on-the-job training. As of 2016, the mean wage for electricians stood at $56,650.

2. Insurance sales agent

As an insurance sales agent, you'll contact potential customers and try to sell insurance policies. Depending on the agency you work for, you could be selling individual policies, such as car insurance or renters insurance, or you could sell policies that cover businesses.

The mean annual wage for insurance sales agents in 2016 was $67,760. There is also the potential to earn bonuses and commissions, which can increase your income even more. Best of all, entry-level positions only require a high school diploma or its equivalent.

3. Web developers

Web developers create and design user-friendly websites. They handle the behind-the-scenes aspects of a site, such as coding, security, and speed.

Although some developers have an associate degree, there are a growing number of coding boot camps that provide a cost-effective alternative. These tend to be accelerated, intensive programs that teach you how to code and get your first job within a few months, rather than years. It's a field where your talent and ability is far more important than your education. (See also: 7 Things Employers Care About More Than Your Degree)

The mean wage of web developers in 2016 was a whopping $72,150, with the potential to earn six-figures as your career progresses.

4. Dental hygienist

If looking into people's mouths doesn't gross you out, and you're willing to get an associate degree, a career in dental hygiene can be a lucrative option. Dental hygienists earned a mean wage of $73,440 in 2016, though some can earn salaries well into six figures.

In your role, you'll clean patients' teeth and look for signs of oral diseases or dental issues. This position is in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the job outlook to grow by 20 percent — far more than the national average. That means it will be easier to find a job and maintain job security when you're out of school. (See also: 8 Great Jobs for the Next 10 Years)

5. Elevator installer and repairer

Think of all of the buildings you see each day during your commute. Most of them have elevators, which means someone has to install, repair, and maintain those elevators. A career in elevator installation and repair can provide job stability, as the industry is expected to grow at a higher-than-average rate (12 percent).

To enter the field, you only need a high school diploma or its equivalent, along with an apprenticeship. That's a very budget-friendly way to earn the highest mean salary on the list: $76,860 as of 2016.

Choosing an alternative career path

While pursuing a trade job is a nonconventional choice today, it can be a smart decision. With lower education costs and little to no student loan debt, you can begin working and building your financial future sooner.

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This article is from Kat Tretina of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Things Your Boss Wishes You'd Tell Them

Paul Michael — Wed, 13 Dec 2017 10:00:06 +0000

Most of us have a boss of some kind. And a lot of people think that bosses only want to hear good news all of the time, but that's not the case.

Positive information is nice, but negatives are just as important. If issues are preventing you, your coworkers, or your company from doing a job well, it makes life harder on everyone — including your boss. As long as you are bringing solutions with the problems, your boss will thank you for pointing out areas that need improvement. So, speak up on the following things, and do yourself and the boss a favor.

1. You want to be challenged more often

Most of us don't want to coast through our careers without learning, growing, and climbing the ladder. To do that, we need to face new challenges, step outside of our comfort zones, and take on tasks that will sometimes throw us into the deep end. While it's a scary prospect at times, it's essential for genuine advancement.

However, your boss may not realize that you are not being challenged enough throughout the week. He or she may think you have just enough on your plate to cope; bosses are not mind readers, and may not realize you are lacking the trials and tests needed to gain experience. Tell the boss what you want to be doing. Ask if you can take on projects that are beyond what is expected of you. If you put in an honest effort, a promotion may even follow. (See also: 8 Career Moves That Prove You're Finally a Grown-Up)

2. Any major issues you have with other employees

The boss needs to know this ASAP, because small problems can become big problems, and those big problems can lead to lawsuits and dismissals. You only have to look at the issues plaguing Hollywood right now to know that keeping things hidden could hurt you in the long term. So, whether it's unwanted attention, inappropriate comments, discrimination, or bullying, tell your boss as soon as you notice the problem. Furthermore, document the issues when they happen, as this gives your boss solid evidence that can help with human resources and dealing with an employee that is making your life difficult.

3. The current state of employee morale

In many companies, bosses aren't privy to the day-to-day events and processes that their employees are going through. If your boss is in and out of meetings all day, traveling weekly, and working on large projects, it will be hard for them to know what the morale situation is like. Maybe it's great. Maybe it's awful and people are ready to quit. Either way, if you can give the boss a regular temperature reading on morale, you will be doing everyone a favor. And even if morale is great, there's nothing wrong with asking for team building events to keep it there.

4. Your daily frustrations

Your relationship with your boss is in some ways like a relationship with a romantic partner. Little things here and there can get on your nerves, and you bottle up your feelings. These small frustrations can eat away at you day after day, and become overwhelming. So, find the time to bring them up in a weekly status report or one-on-one. Don't whine. Don't complain. And don't do it without having possible solutions up your sleeve. The boss will be thankful that you addressed it sooner rather than later.

5. How they are doing

One of the biggest reasons people leave a job is their relationship with the boss, and in some instances this could have been repaired long before it became an issue. So, find ways to tell the boss what they're doing right, and what they could be doing better.

Suggest things the other employees are asking for. Maybe they would like more transparency, and weekly updates on the status of the company. Perhaps they want a simple night out every month, together as a team, to help with morale. Let the boss know.

Of course, judge each case by its merits, and never insult. If your boss is known to be sensitive, you should throw a lot of great compliments out before hitting them with a problem.

6. What you like, and don't like, about the job

Start with what makes you happy and excited to come to work every day (and if you can't think of anything, you should probably start looking for a new job immediately). Are there certain projects that really get you going? Are there challenges you enjoy taking on? Make a list of all the reasons you enjoy coming to work, and let your boss know about them. He or she will not only appreciate it, but may throw more of those things at you when the opportunity arises.

Similarly, make a list of the things that stop a good job from becoming a great job. Are there tasks that are boring? Are there systems in place that make your life hell? Tell the boss while offering solutions, and it will give them a chance to fix the issues. (See also: 13 Great Reasons to Quit Your Job)

7. How you could be an even better employee

Nothing stirs a boss quite like an employee who is driven to do better, be better, and go further. Self-improvement is an admirable quality, and if you see ways in which you could grow and become a greater asset to the company, talk to your boss about it. Is there a conference coming up that would be invaluable to you? Ask if you can attend. Are there skills you would like to learn? Research workshops and online training.

In many cases, bosses are happy to pay for some, or even all, of the cost of these events, as they are a direct benefit to the company. What's more, many businesses actually put aside money for employee training, so you would be making your boss look good by taking advantage of this benefit. (See also: 7 Certifications That Add Big $$ to Your Salary)

Remember, at the end of the day, if you make your boss look good, you will prosper. So talk to him or her about any of these topics in a cordial way, and work together to resolve any problems. You will do your career a world of good.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Ways to Spring Clean Your Career

Damian Davila — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 09:00:05 +0000

It turns out, 72% of U.S. households spring clean every year. The annual ritual of tidying up your home is a healthy habit that improves your way of life, increases your productivity, and provides you with a serious self-esteem boost.

Just like you take care of your home each spring, take this time to spruce up your career to make the very best out of it. Here are the eight moves to spring clean your career.

1. Search Your Name on the Web

According to Google, its users do 100 billion searches per month, which adds up to about 1.2 trillion searches per year. What's even more surprising is that it has been estimated that 30% of searches on Google are job-related.

What are those people searching for your name finding? Hopefully, it's important websites, publications, or projects that can help you land your next position, or land a promotion. Find out what is currently available under your name so that you can be prepared for questions about those search results, ask not to be mentioned in undesirable places, and build up your online presence. Besides Google, search your name on other search engines, including Yahoo and Bing.

2. Buy Your Name as a Domain

An effective way to establish a hub for your online presence is to purchase your own domain name. Take me as an example. If you look for "Damian Davila" you will find two main individuals: a talented drummer/photographer, and an experienced personal finance writer. While I enjoy the surf photographs of my doppelgänger, I want to make sure that people learn more about my writing when looking up my name. That is why I bought my own domain name, DamianDavila.com and plan to use it to showcase my writing portfolio.

Owning your own domain name allows you stand out from the crowd, particularly when you have a very popular name. Keep in mind that it may take some time to be able to buy your domain name — in my case it took two long years until it became available!

3. Clean Up Your Social Media Accounts

Speaking of search results and websites, you'll notice that social media accounts rank heavily on all search engines. For example, when looking up my name on Google, three out of the nine results from the first page are links to social media accounts.

While you may think that your private business is for your eyes only, be aware that 35% of employers who screen via social networks have requested to become a friend or follow candidates who have private accounts. Depending on the details on the position that you're applying for, your potential employer may have a valid concern for your online activity. Don't let an inappropriate comment or photo become an obstacle in your path to career success.

4. Invest in a Professional Headshot

While most recruiters recommend that you don't include a photograph when submitting your resume, most social media sites, company directories, and PR organizations do request a headshot. Take the time — and the expense — to get a professional headshot. You can hire a professional photographer, ask a favor from your photog friend or relative (do return the favor when they ask!), or request one from the HR department of your company.

Be prepared for those times when your boss wants to make an announcement of your promotion in the local newspaper, you want to show yourself in your own domain name, or you submit an article for a website as a guest blogger.

5. Edit Your LinkedIn Profile

Also, 94% of recruiters use LinkedIn to source and vet candidates, making this professional network a great opportunity to showcase your work skills and career history. What do recruiters find on Linkedin when looking up your name? If your name doesn't show up, you could be making the life of that recruiter a bit more difficult. Beef up your LinkedIn profile by:

Growing your professional network with peers in your company and industry, alumni from your alma mater, or individuals sharing your interests in LinkedIn groups;
Including links to any publications, presentations, or projects that are available online;
Request recommendations from current or past clients, supervisors, peers, or teachers, and;
Demonstrating your analytical and writing skills through articles that you have written.

6. Touch Up Your Paper Resume

Despite the popularity of online resumes, some employers and recruiters still stick to paper resumes. Tailor your application to the details laid out on the job post. Insisting on emailing a URL to your domain name or LinkedIn profile instead of mailing out a printout of your resume via regular mail when the recruiter clearly indicated so, is the fastest way to get your application ignored completely. Here are some tips:

Be prepared for requests of paper resumes by formatting yours so it prints nicely on a standard sheet of 8 x 11 paper.
Test out the printout before sending a file via email.
Keep both Word and PDF versions of your resume because some employers prefer one format over the other.
Maintain a text-only version of your resume for those times that you have to copy and paste your resume into an HR online portal.

7. Work on Your Elevator Pitch

Comedian George Burns said it best, "The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and to have the two as close together as possible." Brevity in writing and speech is very powerful and makes you look centered and well-prepared. Take a cue of from startup entrepreneurs and develop your own elevator pitch, which is a succinct and persuasive sales pitch that will lead into a deeper dialogue about what you can offer. Test your elevator pitch with people that you trust so they can offer you feedback. And fine tune your elevator pitch until you can deliver it effectively over the phone, in person, or via email.

8. Learn a New Skill That Employers Want

Many organizations have well defined salary payscales with specific requirements, so take the time to investigate what those requirements are. Unless they involve longevity in the company, you can work in attaining them in a shorter amount of time.

Some examples are completing a teaching certification, finishing modules towards a professional license, accumulating hours in a list of job-related assignments, or attending a series of industry-required seminars. By completing those skills, you're effectively not only improving your chances of a promotion or salary bump, but also making yourself more desirable to other potential employers.

What are other ways to spring clean your career?

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This article is from Damian Davila of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

11 Jobs With High Earnings and Growth

Tim Lemke — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 12:00:03 +0000

You need a job. But not just any job. You want a job where opportunities are plentiful, and you'd like to make a decent wage.

The nation's economy is always shifting, but there are a number of careers that are projected to need thousands of new qualified workers within the next decade. And many of them offer great pay. Some may be in industries you never considered, but if you're open minded, you may just find the perfect position for you. Here are several jobs that offer good projected growth in employment opportunities and wages.

1. Market Research Analysts

Be a part of the Big Data revolution. These days, there's a wealth of data being collected about our buying habits and web activity and everything else we do from companies like Amazon and Facebook. Someone has to slice and dice that stuff and turn it into actionable information. This job has a projected growth rate of 19% or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with median pay between $50,000 and $75,000.

2. Elevator Installers and Repairman

What? Fixing elevators? Well, BLS reports that position has a projected growth rate of 13% or more and a median salary of more than $75,000. Pretty good for a position that does not require a college degree.

3. Registered Nurses

As Baby Boomers age, the demand for nurses is expected to grow by 16% between 2014 and 2024, representing about 439,300 positions. And these are well-paying jobs; the median salary for a registered nurse is about $65,000.

4. Software Developers

The world is going to continue to need applications for computers, smartphones, and other devices. BLS projects a 17% increase in employment opportunities in this sector by 2024, with a median salary of more than $90,000.

5. Civil Engineers

America is always going to be building things. The BLS says there will be 23,600 more employment opportunities for those with skills to design and oversee large construction projects by 2024. Median pay is about $80,000.

6. Genetic Counselors

A whole new world of careers opened up once scientists discovered how to map the human genome. The intersection of health and genetics is now a very big deal. Genetic counselors help people understand how their genetics may have an impact on their future health. They may work in private practice, for health care companies, or even insurance companies. Counselors are already paid $65,000 — and BLS says there will be a 29% jump in jobs by 2024.

7. Dieticians and Nutritionists

People are becoming more aware of how food choices affect their health, and this is one profession that is expected to play a key role in the health community as doctors look to prevent disease, not just treat it. There were about 67,000 dieticians and nutritionists in 2014, but you can expect that to rise by 16% by 2024. The median salary is a very solid $55,000.

8. Occupational Therapists

Even a low-paid occupational therapist can make $50,000, and those employed in skilled nursing facilities can make close to $80,000 annually. Occupational therapists help ill, disabled, or injured people to become more mobile and carry out tasks. And the job outlook is good, with a 27% increase in jobs by 2024, outpacing even most jobs in the healthcare arena. One caveat: you will likely need a master's degree to work in this field. (See also: 7 Certifications That Add Big $$ to Your Salary)

9. Logistician

People are never going to stop buying things, and we'll always need someone to figure out how to move goods from one place to another. Logisticians work in all kinds of organizations to set up supply chains and manage a life cycle of a product. You may need a bachelor's degree for these jobs. But if you're qualified, you can make upwards of $73,000 annually. More than 2,500 logistician jobs are projected to come online within the next decade.

10. Corporate Trainers and Development Specialists

As the economy transforms, there will be people needed to help workers get the necessary skills and certifications. As a trainer, you will plan and administer programs to keep employees' qualifications up to date. These jobs pay pretty well — about $56,000 annually — and there will be an 7% increase in employment opportunities by 2024.

11. Lab Technician

Another job in the healthcare field that should see good growth over the next few years. Lab techs will test samples of bodily fluids and other substances. It's an important job, and you don't need a medical degree. Median salary is about $50,000, and there will be 52,000 new lab tech positions in the near future.

Note: All data via the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, which is a terrific resource for job searchers and the career-curious.

Did we miss any jobs with serious growth potential on this list? Let us know in the comments!

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This article is from Tim Lemke of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Job Sectors Where Wages Are Growing

Christa Avampato — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 10:00:03 +0000

The economy's improving, but certain industries are experiencing a greater rebound than others. And the data can be confusing, because "job growth" in reports refers to the number of jobs, not higher wages. (See also: 9 Jobs You May Not Have Considered — But Should)

Here are seven job sectors exhibiting salary increases according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Home Health Care Services

As people live longer and are faced with the outrageous expense of inpatient services, many are opting for home treatment or outpatient clinics. Home health care services are far less expensive than inpatient services, people can recuperate and maintain their health in the comfort of their own homes, and it provides a greater sense of independence. As a result, home health care services are experiencing increased demand that is also driving up wages.

2. Individual and Family Services

Jobs in the individual and family services sector include services that improve the quality of people's lives, such as youth centers, foster care and adoption agencies, and after-school and mentoring programs. Elderly services include senior centers, adult daycare, and support groups. Drug and alcohol abuse treatment and prevention programs, parental support groups, and abuse intervention are also part of this industry. Jobs in these sectors include counselors, teachers, social workers, and case workers who need to increasingly take a holistic view of care and treatment.

3. Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services

With many companies still shy to add full-time headcount to their payroll, and a robust freelance industry, it's no wonder that consultants with valuable business, science, and technical expertise are choosing to stay independent. They know how valuable they are and are demanding larger fees for their services as a result.

4. Computer Systems Design and Related Services

The line between our online and physical worlds is rapidly blurring. Computer systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and consumers have come to expect a beautiful, seamless online experience. It takes a lot of talent to create that elegance and keep our data safe at the same time. With an increased number of recent data breaches, cyber security is an ever more important aspect of design. The higher quality of design demanded, the higher the designer's salary.

5. Cement and Concrete Product Manufacturing

Construction in the residential and commercial sectors is booming, and that means cement and concrete are in high demand. What's interesting about this industry is that it's experiencing a fair amount of innovation, as well. Climate change is increasing sensitivity to our environmental footprint, and in constructing smart buildings that are energy efficient. As concrete and cement are a major component of construction, this boom is a rising tide that lifts all boats (and wages) for its workers.

6. Office Administrative Services

Office workers today are expected to do much more than answer phones and keep a calendar. They often function as an office manager, ensuring that productivity remains high for an entire team — or company. They must have sophisticated computer and technology skills, as well as knowledge of areas as varied as finance, accounting, and communications. And with greater knowledge comes higher wages.

7. Offices of Health Practitioners

As healthcare gets more technical and sophisticated, the offices of health care practitioners must follow. This means that the people who run these offices must also enhance their skills and knowledge to best communicate with patients, insurance companies, health care providers, and drug and medical equipment companies. This enhanced expertise and knowledge is highly valued in the market.

If you're using the job market data when considering a career change, make sure to truly understand what data is being represented and what it means. Ideally, you want to match your interests to an industry with increasing wages and an increasing number of job opportunities. Happy hunting!

Are you considering a career change?

This article is from Christa Avampato of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: