20 High-Income Skills to Learn This Year

Although college helped propel some of us toward careers that we love, the truth is that post-college learning and education can be just as important.

Alternatively, if you didn't attend college, there are plenty of virtual opportunities available to develop new, useful skills to help you navigate your career and professional development journey. And if you're looking to make a career transition, mastering some of these skills may be the catalyst that helps you switch careers or roles.

If you’re currently searching for a new job or would like to climb the ladder within your current company, expanding your current skill set is always a good idea. However, if the most lucrative jobs currently feel out of reach, consider learning high-income skills to give you a leg up. 

Let's explore how to learn high-income skills and the lucrative earning potential they unlock! 

Table of Contents

What Are High-Income Skills? 

High-income skills include any skills that make job candidates appear more attractive to hiring managers and recruiters—and also contribute to higher earning potential. 

Many high-paying skills are new and constantly evolving. Those skills need to be constantly honed, improved, and optimized. For example, a job candidate who has used learning to create new and unique solutions will be incredibly attractive to a hiring manager, recruiter, or headhunter.

These skills weren’t necessarily taught during your college courses (although I’m sure some were!), but you can educate yourself through online bootcamps, certification courses, YouTube tutorials, or lifelong learning sites. These skills can translate to numerous high-paying jobs.

The Best High-Income Skills You Can Learn Without a Degree

As you plan out the next steps in your career, there are a variety of useful skills to learn without needing a degree in that specific area. Here are twenty examples of high-income skills with corresponding job titles and earning potential*. 

1. Software Engineering 

If you’re interested in user experience and design, consider a certification or course in Adobe Suite, HTML, CAD, CSS, etc. This will give you a good foundation and stepping stone to becoming a UX Designer, which has six-figure potential!

While computer programming and software engineering are really an umbrella of talents, languages codes, and skills, they are in high demand—and they can be learned through boot camps and software development courses online.

2. Audio Production + Video Production 

If you thought the kids in the A/V club in high school were nerds, well, you'd be wrong. Those highly skilled in audio production, audio editing, and video editing are in high demand. As virtually every business and personality are expected to be audio content + video content machines, so rises the demand for people who are camera pros.

There are podcasts to be produced, videos to be edited, and TikToks to be created before the latest trends change (which happens in an instant!).

This is an example of a great set of hard skills for budding entrepreneurs looking to build their own freelance work from the ground up.

3. Video or Audio Editing

Once the content is produced, everyone needs a good editor to put it all together. With podcast roles on the rise and TikTok taking over the world, these editing skills would not go to waste. You can take a course or just play around with software like Audible or iMovie. Whether you are a video editor or audio editor, your in-demand skills will be put to use.

4. Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is a key part of many organizations’ core strategies, and there are a plethora of courses available to help develop your advertising knowledge and skills. Once you have a good foundation, you can help provide key insight into content strategy and execution. 

Digital marketing is a broad term which has its pros and cons. A successful digital marketer can either be highly specialized or have a broad range of talents, depending on the type of work they want to pursue. 

Types of Digital Marketers Include:

5. Leadership 

This one might seem broad, but that's precisely why it's so important. Most leaders fail within their first two years—and it's not always their fault. The Peter Principle describes the leadership phenomenon in which someone who excels at their job is promoted to a leadership role. The only problem is that they have no leadership skills! 

By learning leadership skills, increasing your confidence, leaning into empathy, and steering away from a fear of public speaking, you can be a great leader. 

6. Copywriting

If you have dreams of writing for social media but your skills are a little rusty, consider taking a copywriting course. Copywriting can translate into many different jobs, including social media management. Online courses, workshops, and books are all great options, as they offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Additionally, you can gain practical experience by writing copy for real-world projects, such as websites, advertisements, and social media campaigns. Networking with other copywriters can also be helpful, as it can provide you with valuable insights and feedback on your work.

7. Project Management

Have you considered getting your Project Management Certification? Putting that on your resume is a great way to stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. There are several online courses that will prepare you to get your project management certification.

If you want to know what it takes to be a project manager, the critical skills and certifications required, where to find project management jobs, what to do during the job search and job interview, and how to utilize resources to continue your education as you move further along in your project management career, check out this episode of The Career Contessa Podcast. 

8. Google Analytics

To become proficient in using Google Analytics, there are several crucial skills that you need to learn. You need to have a solid understanding of web analytics concepts and terminology, such as cookies, sessions, and bounce rate as well as technical skills to know how to use the Google Analytics platform. Data analysis skills will also help you analyze and interpret crucial data.

The Google Analytics Academy offers free online courses and certifications, covering topics such as data collection, reporting, and analysis. Additionally, there are many third-party courses, tutorials, and blog posts available online, as well as books and other resources. Practicing with real-world data and experimenting with different techniques and strategies can be helpful in building your skills and experience.

Learning Google Analytics can be helpful for a variety of reasons, especially if you’re interested in Search Engine Optimization roles. Speaking of SEO roles...

9. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) 

Search engine optimization isn't about flashy promotions or trendy content. It's about longevity, building a trustworthy reputation, and it's about knowing how to work giant search engines to your advantage. Easy, right? Not really. As algorithms are constantly changing, the "rules" of search engine optimization change every minute.

The advantage of building SEO skills is in its unpredictability. SEOs who stay on top of trends, changes, and the best way to streamline their content creation are the ones who see success.

SEO jobs involve optimizing websites and online content to improve visibility and rankings in search results pages. This includes keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, and other tactics designed to improve a website's relevance and authority in the eyes of search engines.

10. Organization and Administrative Support

This doesn’t necessarily require you to take a specific course; however, if you have a knack for organization and administrative skills, then an executive assistant role might be a great fit for you.

Executive assistants are a great example of top-tier organizational professionals who blend project management, multitasking, discretion, and flexibility. Find out how to become an awesome executive assistant today.

11. Sales

The best salespeople also are the highest earners—and it's not a coincidence. 

While many sales workers start out with higher education or a four-year degree, it's possible to work one's way up the sales ladder with, you guessed it, really great skills in persuasion.

Sales roles can vary, too. While some sales professionals are experts at cold-calling and generating warm leads, other sales professionals are better suited to "schmooze" in order to close big deals.

Sales is a great field for someone with a background in hospitality or customer-facing roles. A motivated salesperson working with a base salary plus the opportunity for commission can find themselves with a salary well into the six-figure range.

12. Trade Skills 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of the classic trade skills will be in high demand over the next decade. As such, employees with trades skills, or so-called "blue-collar workers" will be crucial.

Trade jobs are occupations that require specialized skills and training, such as welding, plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry. These jobs often involve working with one's hands and require a high level of technical expertise. In recent years, trade jobs have increased in demand, as many industries face a shortage of skilled workers.

There are several reasons for the demand for trade jobs. First, many people are choosing to pursue college degrees, leading to a shortage of skilled workers in technical fields. Second, the construction industry is growing, creating a need for skilled workers in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Finally, many baby boomers are retiring, leaving a gap in the workforce that needs to be filled.

Trades Jobs in High Demand Include:

If you're someone who doesn't see yourself sitting at a desk, perhaps it's time to get back to tinkering, problem-solving, and securing the skills needed for the highest-paying jobs of the future! Trade schools, vocational schools, and community colleges offer certificate and degree programs in various trades. Some employers even offer on-the-job training or sponsor training programs. Additionally, there are many online resources, (think: YouTube channels) that offer instructional videos to help you learn trade skills on your own.

13. Real Estate

Real estate jobs are occupations related to buying, selling, leasing, and managing property. These jobs include real estate agents, brokers, appraisers, property managers, and real estate developers.

Real estate jobs are increasingly in demand due to the fact that population growth and urbanization have led to a greater need for housing and commercial space. The rise of online real estate platforms has also created new job opportunities in real estate.

Many colleges and universities offer real estate programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees. There are also many private real estate schools that offer courses and training programs in various areas of real estate. Additionally, many states require real estate professionals to be licensed, which typically involves completing a certain number of hours of coursework and passing an exam.

14. Content Creation

Content creation jobs involve creating various types of content for digital media platforms, including social media, blogs, videos, podcasts, and more. Content creators may work in-house for companies, agencies, or as freelancers. With the rise of digital marketing and the increasing importance of social media and online presence for businesses, the demand for content creators has been on the rise.

The growth of social media has created new opportunities for content creators to connect with audiences and promote products and services. The rise of influencer marketing has created a need for content creators who can create content that resonates with audiences and drives engagement.

There are many ways to learn content creation skills, including taking courses and workshops, attending conferences and events, and practicing on your own. Familiarize yourself with various social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter. Some popular online learning platforms like Skillshare and Udemy offer courses on content creation, and there are also many free resources available online.

15. Graphic Design

A graphic designer is a professional who creates visual content to communicate messages or ideas. They use various design tools and techniques to create designs for logos, websites, advertisements, packaging, and other marketing materials. If you are interested in entering graphic design some new skills to sharpen up on would include proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, color theory, typography, branding, and data visualization.

Graphic designers are in high demand because businesses and organizations need compelling visual content to communicate with their audience effectively. The need for skilled graphic designers has grown, with companies looking to create unique and eye-catching designs that stand out in the crowded noise of the Internet.

16. Software Development

Software development is the process of designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. It involves a wide range of tasks, including analyzing user requirements, designing software architecture, and writing code in programming languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, and C++. Specializing in software development is great if you want to work from home.

Software development is a bit different from software engineering. While software developers focus on creating software applications, software engineers consider the entire software development process. In other words, software engineers are concerned with the overall process of software development, while software developers focus more on writing code and creating software applications.

17. UX Design

User experience (UX) design involves creating digital products, services, or systems that are intuitive, user-friendly, and enjoyable to use. There is a growing need for skilled individuals who can create engaging and effective digital experiences across a wide range of platforms and devices.

If you’re interested in becoming a UX designer, you’ll want to gain knowledge in software such as Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, and Figma, as well as knowledge of user research methods and usability testing. Creative skills include the ability to create compelling visual designs, develop intuitive information architecture and navigation, and write effective copy. Successful UX designers are also skilled at collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, with the ability to work closely with developers, stakeholders, and other members of a cross-functional team. UX designers are key players in web development, web design, and mobile app development.

18. Blockchain

Blockchain technology refers to a digital database or ledger that is distributed among the nodes of a peer-to-peer network. Blockchains store information electronically and are most commonly known for their role in cryptocurrency. Blockchain is decentralized, meaning that there is no central authority controlling the data, and it uses complex algorithms to ensure that information cannot be tampered with or deleted.

Blockchain jobs are in high demand because the technology has the potential to transform industries such as finance, healthcare, and supply chain management by improving efficiency, security, and transparency. As more businesses and organizations explore the possibilities of blockchain, and have an increased focus on cybersecurity, there is a growing need for professionals who can develop and implement blockchain solutions.

To work in blockchain, you need and understanding of blockchain architecture and development languages such as Solidity, as well as experience with distributed systems and cryptography. Business skills include an understanding of blockchain applications in specific industries, as well as knowledge of regulatory and compliance issues related to blockchain. Successful blockchain professionals are also skilled at problem-solving, collaboration, and communication, with the ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving industry.

19. Email Marketing

Email marketing is a digital marketing strategy that involves sending promotional or informative messages to a targeted audience through email. Email marketing is in high demand because it is a cost-effective way for businesses to communicate with customers, both returning and prospective.

To be an effective email marketer, you need a combination of technical and creative skills. Technical skills include an understanding of email marketing platforms and tools, such as Mailchimp or Constant Contact, as well as an understanding of email marketing best practices, such as email deliverability and list management.

Creative skills include the ability to write compelling copy, design eye-catching graphics and layout, and develop engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Effective email marketers are also skilled at data analysis in order to measure the success of their campaigns and make data-driven decisions.

20. Podcasting

Podcast jobs are in high demand because the popularity of podcasts has grown rapidly in recent years. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals who can create, produce, and distribute compelling podcasts that engage and entertain audiences.

Technical skills required to work in podcasting include an understanding of audio recording and editing software, as well as knowledge of podcast distribution platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Creative skills include the ability to develop engaging content, write compelling scripts, and conduct interviews with guests. Successful podcast professionals are also skilled at marketing and promotion, with the ability to build and engage with an audience and create a loyal following for their show. This is crucial as the podcast landscape grows increasingly competitive.

And while we're here, quick plug for The Career Contessa Podcast.

Where to Learn High-Income Skills Online

There are plenty of online learning opportunities to help build your high-income skillset (including our very own courses!), and here are just a few more to explore:

The Internet

If you noticed one similarity between these high-income skills, it's that many of them move so fast that they couldn't possibly be taught in a traditional institution. 

One of the greatest soft skills with the most earning potential is curiosity. If you're looking to build or grow any high-income skills, keep on top of what's happening around you. 

Use the internet as your digital mentor and never stop learning.

Online Courses

Take a look at LinkedIn Learning, which has hundreds of courses to help fine-tune your high-income skills. Learn HTML and software development or writing and agile project management to help you along your career journey. 

Skillshare is an online learning platform with thousands of classes on a variety of topics that can help you develop high-income skills. Skillshare offers in-depth classes on everything from Business Analytics to UI/UX Design. 

Use Coursera to learn without limits. Start, switch, or advance your career by learning anything from copywriting to leadership skills. Coursera collaborates with leading universities and companies to teach the latest and greatest skills. 

Your Employer

If you’re currently employed, check with your HR department to find out if they offer courses or certifications at a discount rate. Many companies are happy to help their employees with professional development, especially if the newly learned skills will benefit the organization in the future. 

Want to ask your boss for reimbursement or sponsorship to pay for a learning opportunity? We created a template to help you ask your boss for anything, including a learning reimbursement. 

*Salary information found on payscale.com.