The American dream has been achieved, given that more than one-third of workers say they live within their paychecks, whether working full-time or living in a two-income household. It feels more like a luxury than a possible goal. But a conference board study on salary budget increases suggests there’s a ray of hope for the future, if only a few jobs are willing to work.
So if you’re burnt out in your industry, stuck in a toxic job, or simply driven by the prospect of a higher salary, quit your current job and get a higher salary. Consider getting a job in one of these four anticipated fields. It will grow over the next year.
According to the study, salaries are increasing at a “record” pace in four career fields:
1. Insurance
Employers are generally planning salary budget increases of about 3.9% in 2024, lower than the actual increase of 4.4% in 2023, but across all career fields, the survey found. We are not seeing an increase.
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But those who work in the insurance industry may be among the lucky few. If you’re wondering why anyone would want to work in the insurance industry, that’s exactly why salaries in this industry are so high.
In recent years, many companies have struggled to hire entry-level, semi-full-time employees, and as a result, salaries have increased across the board. The actual increase that employees experience will be even greater.
If you want to break into the industry, you’ll need to jump through some licensing hurdles, but in most cases, entry-level positions are always available and extensive training or preparation isn’t required.
2. Agriculture and Agriculture
Over the past 20 years, average hourly wages for farmworkers and other agricultural workers have increased by more than 28%, particularly in the fresh fruit and vegetable industry.
Increased demand means more labor is needed, which gives agricultural employers an incentive to pay workers more.
People image Yuri A | Shutterstock.com
Of course, many farmers face job instability due to seasonal and crop fluctuations, so salary increases shouldn’t be the only consideration when changing career fields.
Even corporate agriculture jobs are mostly dependent on production and demand, and the benefits and profits can change from year to year.
3. Energy
Adriatic Sea Photos | Shutterstock.com
The energy sector is a huge industry that encompasses a variety of niche companies, employers, and job types. This includes engineers, information systems managers, environmental specialists, and more.
Much of the work in this field focuses on “clean energy” sources, from renewable energy sources to building transportation structures and sustainable infrastructure. This can benefit both personal and professional growth.
Employment experts have even suggested that renewable energy may be the industry of choice for people who have “no idea” where they want to go. There are many “stepping stone” positions available that don’t require extensive background or experience, so there are opportunities for growth for all types of job seekers.
4. Communication
Although communications is a commonly overlooked or misunderstood industry, it is a broad description of all types of work. Whether you want to work in technology, healthcare, or the arts, there’s sure to be a communications role that’s perfect for you.
That diversity means there is great flexibility in the jobs available, allowing people to pursue opportunities that best suit their passions, experience and background, while maximizing their salary expectations.
As social media continues to grow as a means of communication, so will the industry. That means demand for jobs will increase and companies will be willing to spend more money to attract employees.
Zayda Slabbekoorn is a news & entertainment writer at YourTango, focusing on health and wellness, social policy, and human relations articles.
