Money can’t buy happiness — but it can get you a dream house, a flashy sports car, or that overpriced air fryer. If you’re unsure what your life’s calling is, aiming for a high-paying job isn’t a bad place to start. It’s all about doing your homework, understanding the requirements, and creating a solid plan.
Now, things get trickier without a college degree. Those top-dollar jobs can feel out of reach, especially anything in the medical field that takes over a decade of schooling. But here’s the thing: a degree isn’t the only path to a big paycheck. Just look at some of the world’s most successful billionaires — proof that working smart and staying driven can pay off.
Keep reading for some smart strategies. This article will show you:
- The best-paying jobs with annual wages and educational requirements.
- Tips on finding the highest paying industries and getting your foot in the door.
- How to score a lucrative career without a college degree.
20 Highest Paying Jobs With a Degree
With the Elon Musks and Jeff Bezos’ of the world, it’s easy to think that the only way to rake in serious cash is by becoming a tech mogul or some high-flying CEO. But newsflash: Not all CEOs are billionaires. The more reliable path to serious money? The medical field. Surgeons and doctors are some of the highest earners in the U.S. — but getting there isn’t easy.
Using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, I’ve rounded up the 20 highest-paying jobs in the country based on mean annual wages. Of course, paychecks vary with experience, and requirements can differ across states — but this list should give you a solid idea of which careers are bringing in the big bucks.
Discover the 20 best-paying jobs in the US and how to land them.
Pediatric Surgeons
Mean annual wage: $449,320
Pediatric surgeons focus on the surgical needs of children, including everything from urgent operations to birth defects. Their work spans prenatal counseling for expectant mothers to performing life-saving surgeries. These specialists typically work in children’s hospitals, university medical centers, or large community hospitals.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Five-year residency in general surgery.
- Two-year fellowship specifically in pediatric surgery.
- Certification by the American Board of Surgery in both general and pediatric surgery.
Cardiologists
Mean annual wage: $423,250
Cardiologists are physicians who focus on heart and blood vessel health. They diagnose, treat, and prevent cardiovascular conditions such as chest pain, heart failure, and high blood pressure. Cardiologists can further specialize in areas like heart rhythm disorders or congenital heart conditions.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Three-year residency in internal medicine.
- Three additional years of specialized training in cardiology.
- Board exams to achieve certification (must periodically re-certify through continued testing).
Orthopedic Surgeons
Mean annual wage: $378,250
Orthopedic surgeons specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal system disorders, tackling everything from joint replacements to sports injuries. While skilled in surgical procedures, these doctors can also explore non-surgical treatment options to help patients regain mobility and manage pain.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Five-year orthopedic residency.
- An additional one- to two-year fellowship if you want to subspecialize.
- Certification from boards like the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and ongoing education to keep up-to-date with advancements.
Radiologists
Mean annual wage: $353,960
Radiologists are specialized medical doctors who diagnose and treat diseases using imaging technologies like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds. They play a key role in interpreting medical images to help guide the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Radiologists may work as diagnostic, interventional, or radiation oncologists.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Become board-certified in Diagnostic Radiology.
- One- or two-year fellowship for specialized areas such as pediatric or interventional radiology.
Surgeons
Mean annual wage: $348,890
Surgeons are medical doctors who perform procedures to treat injuries or diseases. They lead a team in the operating room to ensure the success of procedures, ranging from major, open surgeries to minimally invasive options. Surgeons practice in diverse settings, including private practices, hospitals, and government programs.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Surgical residency lasting at least five years (some opt for further specialization after residency).
- Certification and continuous learning are required to stay proficient in the field.
Dermatologists
Mean annual wage: $342,860
Dermatologists diagnose and treat conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails. They handle a spectrum of issues, from rashes to skin cancer, and can address cosmetic concerns like wrinkles and scarring. They’re also trained to spot skin signs pointing to internal health issues, such as thyroid or kidney problems.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- One-year medical internship and a three-year dermatology residency.
- Board certification requires passing an exam from the American Board of Dermatology or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology.
Anesthesiologists
Mean annual wage: $339,470
Anesthesiologists specialize in anesthesia and pain management — before, during, and after surgeries. Their job involves ensuring patients don’t feel pain during procedures while monitoring vital signs and managing any health conditions. They’re experts in various types of anesthesia, from general anesthesia to local anesthetics.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- One-year internship, and a three-year anesthesia residency.
- Some opt for an additional one- to two-year fellowship for subspecialty training.
- Certification.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Mean annual wage: $334,310
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons focus on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of conditions affecting the face, mouth, and jaw. Their expertise combines medical, dental, and surgical skills to handle procedures like dental implants, facial trauma repair, and jaw corrections.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of dental school.
- Hospital-based residency lasting at least four years.
- State licensure is mandatory for practice after completing residency.
Athletes and Sports Competitors
Mean annual wage: $328,830
Athletes and sports competitors participate in organized sports to entertain spectators and show off their skills. They train rigorously to stay in peak physical condition, attend practices, and continuously work to improve performance. But of course, your salary can vary massively depending on how successful you are in this industry.
Requirements
- There’s no formal educational path to becoming an athlete.
- Key components include athletic talent and experience gained through years of practice.
- Training programs and guidance from coaches also play important roles.
Ophthalmologists
Mean annual wage: $312,120
Ophthalmologists specialize in eye care, treating eye conditions, and performing surgeries. They conduct routine exams, diagnose eye diseases, and offer treatments from laser procedures to surgery for complex eye disorders. Their expertise ensures the proper function of the eye’s complex structures and contributes to overall eye health.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Four- to five-year residency program.
- Optional training through a fellowship to specialize in areas like retinal surgery or pediatric ophthalmology.
Emergency Medicine Physicians
Mean annual wage: $306,640
Emergency medicine physicians, or ER doctors, specialize in making life-saving decisions in hospital emergency rooms. They manage urgent health crises, guiding emergency medical teams and treating critical conditions as soon as patients arrive. The job is intense and requires the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Three- or four-year residency specifically in emergency medicine.
Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYN)
Mean annual wage: $278,660
OB/GYNs focus on the reproductive health of women. Gynecologists handle overall reproductive health, while obstetricians manage all aspects of pregnancy, from prenatal care to post-delivery. Many doctors combine these specializations to provide comprehensive care, including childbirth and reproductive health services.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Four- to five-year residency focusing on obstetrics and gynecology.
- Certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Neurologists
Mean annual wage: $271,470
Neurologists diagnose and treat disorders of the nervous system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, migraines, and strokes. They perform assessments involving mental status, coordination, and reflex tests. Neurologists may conduct various procedures, like lumbar punctures (LP) and electromyography (EMG), to assess the functioning of the brain and nerves.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Four-year residency including one year of general internal medicine or pediatrics, followed by three years of specialized neurology training.
- Optional 1–3 years of subspecialty training through fellowships.
Pathologists
Mean annual wage: $270,560
Pathologists specialize in diagnosing diseases by studying tissues, fluids, and organs. They often work with biopsy samples and conduct autopsies to determine causes of death. Pathologists play a vital role in diagnosing illnesses, including cancers, and may guide treatment decisions by analyzing blood and other body fluids.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Four-year pathology residency is required.
- Certification by the American Board of Pathology.
- Optional fellowship that lasts about two years, focusing on a specific area of pathology.
Chief Executives (CEOs)
Mean annual wage: $263,840
A CEO is responsible for setting the strategic vision and ensuring the business meets its goals. CEOs oversee operations, drive profitability, and shape company culture. The specifics of a CEO’s role can vary between companies, but their primary focus is steering the organization toward success.
Requirements
- There isn’t a strict educational path to becoming a CEO, but many hold advanced degrees, like an MBA or a graduate degree related to their field.
- Experience in holding various roles within a company or across an industry.
- Strong leadership skills and strategic insight for top-tier management.
Psychiatrists
Mean annual wage: $256,930
Psychiatrists focus on mental health and treating psychological disorders. Using tools like lab tests and psychological assessments, psychiatrists build an understanding of a patient’s overall health. Treatment methods include talk therapy, medication, psychosocial interventions, and sometimes specialized procedures like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Four-year residency in psychiatry.
- Up to two additional years if you want to specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Mean annual wage: $250,050
Airline pilots fly aircraft, perform safety checks, manage flight controls, and communicate with air traffic control. They ensure the safety and efficiency of flights by working closely with copilots, flight attendants, and ground staff. Flight engineers support this by monitoring aircraft systems and helping troubleshoot any mechanical issues during the flight.
Requirements
- Many airline pilots have a bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field. You’ll need a commercial pilot’s license and must meet FAA requirements by accumulating at least 1,500 flight hours.
- Flight engineers often have degrees in STEM subjects like mechanical or aeronautical engineering. Certification requires two years of training, or three years of engine repair experience, and a commercial pilot’s license.
Internal Medicine Physicians
Mean annual wage: $245,450
Internal medicine physicians, known as internists, are specialists in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the internal organs. They handle complex diseases involving the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver, and more, and they often see patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of medical school.
- Three-year residency in internal medicine.
- Certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine.
- An additional 1–4 years of training for subspecialties like cardiology or oncology.
Dentists
Mean annual wage: $244,470
Dentists promote oral health by diagnosing and treating dental issues. They perform various procedures using tools like X-rays, lasers, and drills. Beyond general dental care, some dentists specialize in pediatric dentistry or maxillofacial surgery, treating more specific conditions, or performing surgeries on the mouth and jaw.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of dental school.
- A dental license.
- Specialization may require an additional 1–3 years of residency training.
Orthodontists
Mean annual wage: $243,620
Orthodontists focus on aligning teeth and jaws to improve oral function and aesthetics. They diagnose and treat dental issues like crooked teeth, misaligned bites, and jaw irregularities. While dentists handle general dental care, orthodontists focus on more specific corrective procedures using braces, aligners, and other devices.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Four years of dental school.
- Two to three years in an orthodontics residency program.
- An optional one-year craniofacial orthodontics fellowship to provide expertise in treating severe craniofacial abnormalities.
How to Get a High-Paying Job?
Getting through college and landing a steady job is a solid plan — but if you’re aiming for one of those top-paying careers, you’ve got to go beyond what everyone else is doing. It’s not just about working hard; the trick is working smart and using proactive strategies to get where you want to be. Spoiler: nothing’s going to just magically fall into your lap.
Check out these tried-and-tested strategies to secure a top-paying job.
1. Pursue higher education
There are plenty of successful people who don’t have a degree — Larry Ellison, Anna Wintour, and Steve Jobs to name a few. So no, your success doesn’t hinge entirely on a degree. That said, there’s no denying that it can fast-track you to those high-paying positions — and in many cases, (like medical fields) you simply won’t get accepted without higher education.
What can you do?
- Higher education gives you access to the essential knowledge and training needed for many industries — but it’s a major investment, so take your time to decide. Research the education, skills, and prospects of the job you’re interested in, then map out the steps to get you there.
- Competing against dozens of other college graduates? Then go the extra mile. Internships and co-op programs during college are gold. Not only do they let you apply what you’re learning in the real world, but they also make your resume stand out.
- College isn’t cheap, so check out scholarships that fit your background or field of interest. You can also reach out to your college’s financial aid office and ask for help in understanding grants, work-study programs, and other financial support.
Find out more: How to List Your Education Section On a Resume
2. Find a career path that interests you
You don’t have to like your job, but it does help with long-term success and satisfaction. When you’re doing something you love, pushing through challenges feels less like a chore and more like a mission. Every job has tough days, but if you’re invested in your work, it’s easier to stay motivated and keep climbing the ranks.
What can you do?
- Take your time to figure out what you’re good at, what excites you, and where your weaknesses lie. Dig deep into your core beliefs and values — they’ll help guide you to a path that aligns with who you are.
- On the fence about a career path? Speak to others already in the industry. Ask them to speak honestly about their experiences with all the ups and downs — just make sure it doesn’t turn into a ranting session.
- Don’t be afraid to try a few different paths to figure out what type of work you enjoy. Just don’t go overboard — job-hopping across entry-level jobs won’t help you climb the ladder, and it doesn’t look great for future employers.
Looking to switch jobs? Find out more: I Hate My Job: What to Do, and When Is It Time to Quit?
3. Identify the top-paying industries
You work as hard as anyone, but your effort won’t lead to high earnings if you’re in a field with low financial ceilings. By choosing an industry known for its high pay, like healthcare, tech, finance, or engineering, you’re positioning yourself where the opportunities and money align.
What can you do?
- It all starts with your education. Target majors that lead to jobs that pay well and match your skills. Gaining experience and specialized skills in these areas is a crucial stepping stone into the top-earning industries.
- High-paying can mean more than just a base salary. For example, you can get a lot of value if your chosen career gives you access to medical coverage, health insurance, wage benefits, and paid time off.
- Remember, building a career isn’t just about working hard; it’s about working smart in industries where the payoff reflects your efforts.
4. Expand on in-demand skills
Getting a hefty salary means making yourself indispensable. What sets you apart from everyone else? How can your skills push the company toward success? The more unique your skills, the more valuable you are to employers.
What can you do?
- Companies don’t just pay for hard work; they invest in people who make a difference. Show them you’re an asset who can add real value. Think about ways you can help the company improve and grow. Bring fresh ideas, master specialized tools, or lead initiatives.
- There’s no shortage of online courses, workshops, and conferences if you want to upskill. Learning platforms like Coursera and Udemy have thousands of courses that let you learn from home. The more you learn and adapt, the more likely people will notice and reward you.
- People who show they’re committed to growth often get tapped for internal promotions, especially if you’re already proving your worth. Remember, being in a position where value is generated and showing you can amplify it is the real game changer.
Discover the most in-demand skills for your job application: The Best Skills to Put on a Resume
5. Seek mentorship and support
Ever been driving around in circles wishing the driver would simply ask for directions? Yes, it’s that easy. There’s no shame in seeking advice and support — in fact, most people appreciate being asked and are more than happy to share their words of wisdom.
What can you do?
- Talk to people in the roles you’re aiming for to understand what worked for them. How did they break into the field? What skills did they focus on? Learn the tricks of the trade by asking these questions and following their lead.
- Mentorship doesn’t just mean advice — use it as a source of encouragement and confidence. Don’t be afraid to ask about opportunities like internships or recommend courses. Even practical details like writing a resume or choosing the right school can come from these conversations.
- Nobody you can speak to? There are plenty of people dishing out free advice all over the internet. Follow industry leaders on LinkedIn, listen to podcasts, or subscribe to YouTube accounts for valuable insights.
6. Commit to career growth
There’s a difference between being committed to your job and being committed to a career. You can work hard and gain skills, but if you’re bouncing from job to job, you’re holding yourself back from getting that all-important expertise that comes with sticking to your specialty. Plus, getting promoted internally requires you to actually stick around.
What can you do?
- Jumping around random jobs might give short-term benefits, but it won’t build the reputation and credibility of years of focused work. Employers are willing to pay a high price for people who really know their jobs and can find solutions.
- Practice commitment on a daily basis. Completing tasks mindlessly won’t earn you that promotion. Be smart by finishing your main duties efficiently so you can use part of your time to innovate and add value to your team.
- Industries that are booming or facing worker shortages often have higher pay and better chances for advancement. Finding your niche can position you as an expert that’s hard to replace.
7. Build connections with industry leaders
Knocking on the door of a top CEO and asking for a chat over a coffee isn’t going to happen. But there are ways you can mingle with employers in leading organizations. They’re the ones who know what’s happening in the field, and having them in your corner can open doors you might never have found on your own.
What can you do?
- “It's who you know, not what you know” — this isn’t entirely true. Yes, meeting the right people can give you an advantage, but you can’t rely solely on your charm. You need to show you have the skills to collaborate, think strategically, and add value, so they can see your potential as a professional (not just a drinking buddy).
- When making these connections, prove that you’re serious about your career. Leaders appreciate people who put in the effort to build relationships and understand the bigger picture. These relationships can lead to mentorship, career advice, and even job opportunities that aren’t posted publicly.
- Joining professional organizations or societies in your field is a smart way to meet influential people. Many host events, workshops, or networking mixers where you can connect and learn.
What Are the Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree?
Fun fact: no employer has ever asked me about my college degree. And yes, while many jobs list a degree as a requirement, it certainly doesn’t define your professional career. Employers are usually more concerned with whether your experience and skills are enough to add value to their company.
If you’re aiming for those high-paying jobs, focus on building experience. Without a degree, you might have to start at the bottom and work your way up, but becoming an expert in your field can pay off in the long run.
Below are some of the top-paying jobs without a degree, based on mean annual wages from the U.S. BLS. Keep in mind, not every sales rep or real estate broker is pulling in six figures, but they’re on this list because they have the potential to hit that high salary mark.
Take a look at the highest-paying careers without a degree.
Project Manager
Mean annual wage: $104,920
Project managers are the backbone of any project, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Their job involves planning, organizing, and directing projects so they’re completed on time and within budget. The great thing about being a project manager? Your skills are transferable across industries, so you can work in tech, construction, healthcare, and more.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- There’s no set rule on having a degree to be a PM. Of course, it helps, but your skills, experience, and certifications can be enough to climb the ranks.
Power Plant Operator
Mean annual wage: $98,190
Power plant operators keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses. They manage and control the equipment needed to produce power and monitor systems to ensure operations run smoothly. Keep in mind: this job requires working rotating shifts as power plants operate 24/7, which can be tough on your sleep and lifestyle.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Extensive on-the-job training is usually provided.
- Vocational training or specialized courses can make you stand out when applying.
- A license is required to work at a nuclear power plant.
Sales Representative
Mean annual wage: $86,920
Sales representatives promote products and services to customers and manage client relationships. Income in sales can vary massively and is often a mix of base salary plus performance-based bonuses. The role can be lucrative if you’re in the right field, especially in business-to-business (B2B) sales, where commissions significantly boost earnings.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- While some employers might prefer candidates with a college degree, many positions focus more on interpersonal skills and sales experience.
- Training is often provided on the job, helping you learn product details and sales techniques as you go.
Real Estate Broker
Mean annual wage: $86,130
Real estate brokers oversee transactions to ensure they’re legally compliant and all paperwork is handled correctly. Whether working independently or within a brokerage, they supervise real estate agents and manage deals involving buying, selling, or renting properties. While it’s a commission-based job, real estate brokers who are driven and well-trained can earn a high salary.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Complete pre-licensing courses from a certified institution in your state and pass a licensing exam.
- Real estate license through your state’s real estate commission. Fees for activation typically range between $200 and $400.
Electrical Lineman
Mean annual wage: $85,900
Electrical linemen, also known as electrical line workers or power line technicians, maintain and repair power lines. When storms or natural disasters hit, these professionals are the first responders, restoring power by climbing poles and handling high-voltage equipment. Their job is demanding, but an increasing population means a growing demand for workers in this field.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry.
- Technical training through trade schools, community colleges, or technical programs.
- Safety training and on-the-job experience to prepare you to work with high-voltage systems.
Insurance Agent
Mean annual wage: $79,700
Insurance agents work closely with clients to develop tailored insurance plans. Their main job is to guide clients through the complexities of insurance policies and coverage options. Not every agent will earn the big bucks — earnings are heavily influenced by the agent’s sales volume, commission structure, and consistency.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Licensing requirements vary by state, but most states mandate pre-licensing courses and passing a licensing exam.
- Once you meet your state’s requirements, you’ll need to be appointed by an insurance company to officially sell insurance.
Train Operator
Mean annual wage: $77,370
Train operators are responsible for the safe and timely transportation of passengers and cargo. They manage the operation, maintenance, and repairs of trains while ensuring safety standards. Duties include preparing trains for service, making announcements, and keeping to strict schedules. Operators must be attentive and skilled in managing unexpected issues.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- A valid driver’s license.
- At least one year of full-time work experience.
- Pass a train operator’s exam, requiring a score of at least 70%.
- Once qualified, operators get training to gain hands-on experience.
Firefighter
Mean annual wage: $61,340
Firefighters respond to fires, accidents, and medical emergencies. They work for various government agencies or volunteer departments to protect communities. This job is physically demanding and involves exposure to hazardous environments. Still, for many firefighters, the sense of purpose and community impact makes it worthwhile.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or GED.
- A valid driver’s license and must meet age requirements, typically starting at 18.
- Training involves attending a fire academy and often earning CPR and EMT certifications.
- Check your state’s specific requirements for further details.
How to Get a Job That Pays Well Without a College Degree?
A big paycheck without the burden of college debt? Sounds ideal — but let’s face it, landing a high-paying job without a degree can be tough. But you’re not alone — only 23% of Americans over 25 have a bachelor’s degree and 14% have completed advanced education.
Earning a degree is just one part of the puzzle. We’ve seen enough TED Talks and rags-to-riches stories to know college isn’t the only ticket to success. You could have a wall full of diplomas, but if you’re unmotivated or don’t align with the company, that job can easily go to someone without a degree who checks those boxes.
Find out how to go that extra mile and work your way to the top.
Don’t sell yourself short
Having a degree isn’t the be-all and end-all — just ask some of the wealthiest people in the world. Are you willing to learn? Do you have the drive and determination to succeed? If the answer is yes, you already have more than many people who’ve attended college.
What can you do?
- Figure out what kind of role excites you and consider how your skills play to your strengths. Then, get good at selling — whether it’s your skills, ideas, or products. The ability to sell yourself is a superpower and can set you apart in any industry.
- Take time to develop a personal brand that highlights your achievements and skills. Having a strong online presence, like a LinkedIn profile that shows your professional background, can catch the eye of recruiters searching for talent.
- Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your path, your progress, and how you can thrive. Believe in your value, keep learning, and don’t settle for less than what you’re worth — that confidence will speak volumes.
Find entry-level positions in big organizations
A college degree or some well-acquainted friends can fast-track you to those top positions. Without it, you may have to start from the bottom and work your way up. Now, this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Working your way up lets you learn different aspects of the company and see what goes on in different departments.
What can you do?
- Big companies often favor hiring internally. You can explore different departments while networking with colleagues to see what sparks your interest. When a position opens that aligns with your skills or goals, be ready to make a move.
- If internal growth isn’t moving fast enough, switching jobs every few years can speed up your climb up the income ladder. Just don’t overdo the job-hopping, and make sure they are all somewhat connected to show clear career progression.
- You could also start a side hustle to gain relevant experience and become more familiar with the industry, even if it means working for little profit at first. Remember, it’s about getting experience and leveraging it for growth.
Create a strong network
I’ve had conversations with many people in my field over the years — and I promise you, it wasn’t their college degree that made an impression. What really impresses is showing interest in the industry, sharing valuable stories, or having ambitious goals. Being genuine and enthusiastic can go a long way in forming connections and opening doors.
What can you do?
- Connect with employees in the field you’re aiming for, not just hiring managers. These people have the inside scoop on job openings and know what it takes to succeed in those roles. If you’re positive and genuine, they might even vouch for you as a reference.
- Don’t overlook the people you already know, like former co-workers, classmates, or friends. Reach out and ask if they know of any job openings at their company or elsewhere. Sometimes, a quick message can result in leads or introductions that fast-track your job search.
- Take advantage of online networking tools like LinkedIn. It’s packed with professionals in every field and offers job postings and potential connections to help you get noticed. Building and maintaining these relationships can put you in the right place at the right time.
Tailor your job applications
Nowadays, most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan through resumes before they reach a human. So, if you haven’t tailored your application with the right keywords or phrases — there’s a chance nobody will even see your resume.
What can you do?
- Don’t just tell them you’re great — show them. Identify the skills they’re looking for and give concrete examples of how you’ve used these abilities to deliver positive outcomes. Focus on your achievements and include quantifiable results for more impact.
- Recruiters aren’t asking for your life story; they want to know if you’re the person who can solve their problems and help meet targets. Only include relevant details and accomplishments to show you understand what the company needs.
- Use the job description to find keywords and requirements, then weave them naturally throughout your resume. This helps you pass those initial automated screenings that weed out generic applications.
Don’t have a strong work history? Take a look: How to Write a Resume With No Experience
Show a willingness to learn
Companies can teach their employees technical skills on the job. What can’t be taught? Soft skills. If you’re not a motivated person, it’s not your employer’s job to turn you into a go-getter. They want someone who’s eager to learn and invested in the role from the start.
What can you do?
- Take advantage of workshops, online courses, or professional development programs, many of which are free or affordable. Even if it’s just to brush up on your skills, employers will appreciate you taking initiative and being proactive about your growth.
- Stepping out of your comfort zone is never easy, but it’s better than staying stagnant. Show you’re eager to learn by offering ideas, participating in meetings, and going beyond your normal duties.
- Whether taking an online course or stepping up to lead a presentation, don’t forget to put this on your resume to impress future employers. You’ve put in the work, don’t shy away from getting the recognition you deserve.
Summary
Here’s a summary of the key strategies to land a high-paying job:
- Identify the best-paying careers and industries that align with your interests, then map out your educational and professional journey to reach that goal.
- Gain experience through internships, entry-level positions, or side projects to show your willingness to learn and build relevant experience in your field.
- Focus on in-demand and upcoming skills that employers highly value, like coding, data analysis, or technical expertise.
- Obtain certifications that are recognized and respected in your field (e.g., PMP for project management or AWS for cloud computing).
- Build genuine connections within your industry through networking events, LinkedIn, and professional groups.
- Create a strong personal brand by showing off your work, achievements, and expertise through an online portfolio or professional social media presence.
- Customize your resume for each job to align with the specific skills, experience, and positive results the position requires.
- Target high-paying industries like tech, finance, or healthcare and apply to companies known for competitive salaries.
FAQ
What is the highest-paying job in the world?
The highest-paying jobs in the world include chief executive officers (CEOs), surgeons, data scientists, and software engineers. CEOs of major corporations can make millions annually due to their leadership responsibilities, technological expertise, and business acumen. Elon Musk and others in the top five richest people in the world are all CEOs and are worth over $100 billion each.
What are the highest-paying jobs in NYC?
In NYC, some of the highest-paying jobs include investment bankers, corporate lawyers, and surgeons. Professionals in finance, especially those working as hedge fund managers or investment analysts, can make well into six or seven figures. Technology sector jobs, like senior software engineers and tech leads, also offer substantial salaries.
Which job has the highest salary?
Pediatric surgeons, cardiologists, and orthopedic surgeons are at the top of the salary ladder in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These specialists typically earn more than $350,000 annually, thanks to their extensive training, specialized skills, and the critical nature of their work. While these roles require intense education and years of experience, the financial rewards are significant.
What are the highest-paying hourly jobs?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pediatric surgeons average $216.02 per hour, followed closely by cardiologists at $203.49 and orthopedic surgeons at $181.85. These rates are due to their high demand, specialized medical expertise, which requires precise skills and the ability to handle complex procedures.
How to make 150k a year without a degree?
Making $150k without a degree is achievable, but it often means leveraging specialized skills or gaining experience in lucrative fields. Options include working as a luxury real estate broker, power plant operator, or high-level sales representative. Success can also be linked to making the right connections and continuous learning.
What is the easiest-paid job?
Defining “easy” is subjective, but some jobs with relatively low stress and decent pay include delivery drivers, customer service representatives, personal chauffeurs, or security guards in low-risk environments. These roles don’t demand a degree and probably won’t make you rich, they provide steady income without overwhelming demands.
Finding a job you genuinely like can also make work feel easier. Instead of dragging yourself through the day, you’re naturally more engaged and motivated. Enjoying your work brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which makes even the tough days feel more manageable.