If you’re anything like me, diving deep into coding and technical jargon might not be your cup of tea. But don’t worry – you can still achieve tremendous career success and earn a high income without becoming a tech guru. Below are some of the best high-income skills for non-tech people that can significantly advance your career. These skills are valuable, in demand, and don’t require you to learn how to code. Let’s dive in!
1. Sales and Business Development
One of the most powerful high-income skills is sales. If you’re great at building relationships and have a knack for persuasion, a career in sales or business development might be perfect for you. High-performing sales professionals can earn substantial commissions and bonuses, making this a lucrative path.
Who is sales best for? If you love to schmooze and call yourself a people person, sales could be a great fit for you. Make sure you work with a reputable company with a great incentive plan that rewards individual performance and is selling a product or service that you believe in.
One of my favorite books on sales is the classic: The One-Minute Sales Person by Spencer Johnson.
2. Financial Planning and Wealth Management
Are you good with numbers and financial strategies? Are you a long-term thinker? Financial planning and wealth management could be your ticket to a high-income career. By helping individuals and businesses manage their finances and investments, you can command significant fees, especially if you become a certified professional.
I work with all of my 1-1 coaching clients to get on the path to financial freedom and independence because being financially literate will help you make better decisions in life, even if this profession isn’t for you.
3. Leadership and Management
Strong leadership and management skills are always in high demand. Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organization, effective management can drive success and result in high salaries. This is one of those high-income skills that can open doors to executive positions and significant financial rewards.
The best leaders walk the talk and have their own lives in order. Coach Yourself to Success is a classic for being a successful, happy human.
4. Public Speaking and Communication
Public speaking is a powerful high-income skill that can elevate your career in numerous fields. Whether you’re delivering keynote speeches, leading workshops, or engaging in corporate training, excellent communication skills can set you apart and lead to high-paying opportunities.
I found Toastmasters International an easy way to get started in public speaking. Before I became a life coach and international speaker, I used to test and practice my talks during my lunch break at Toastmasters. One of the most valuable things I learned was how to structure an effective talk depending on your topic. Again, even if you never become a professional speaker, being able to stand up and speak confidently in front of a room of people will help you advance in your career.
5. Copywriting and Content Creation
If you have a flair for writing, copywriting and content creation could be your path to a high-income career. Businesses are always in need of compelling content to engage their audience. Skilled copywriters can earn impressive fees by crafting persuasive marketing materials, blogs, and social media content.
One of the best books for future copywriters: On the Art of Writing Copy by H.G. Lewis.
6. Real Estate
The real estate market offers numerous opportunities for those with the right skills and knowledge. Whether you’re buying, selling, or managing properties, a career in real estate can be highly profitable. This high-income skill can lead to significant earnings, especially in booming markets. And, you don’t have to do real estate full-time to make a profit.
In looking back on my own personal house purchases, I’ve learned how to spot a bargain, make it beautiful, and then sell it later for a serious profit. I’m a very slow buyer, fix it up slowly over time while enjoying living there and then sell it. Follow Robert Kiyosaki’s simple principle: “You make your money when you buy.” Don’t overpay because you fall in love with a house. Instead, use your negotiation skills to bag a bargain (see 9 below).
Good book if houses are your passion: Retire Early with Real Estate by Chad Carson.
7. Event Planning and Management
Do you have a talent for organization and creativity? Event planning and management might be the ideal high-income skill for you. From corporate events to weddings, skilled event planners can command high fees for their expertise in creating memorable and successful events.
8. Human Resources and Talent Development
Human resources is another field where you can leverage high-income skills without needing technical expertise. HR professionals who excel in recruiting, training, and employee development are essential to any organization and can earn substantial salaries.
9. Negotiation
Negotiation is a critical high-income skill that can benefit you in various careers. Whether you’re closing a sales deal, negotiating a contract, or resolving a conflict, strong negotiation skills can lead to better outcomes and higher earnings.
One of my favorite negotiation books that makes negotiation accessible for the layman is the easy-to-read classic by Herb Cohen, You Can Negotiate Anything. After reading this book you’ll save money even if you don’t use negotiation in your career because you’ll discover you can negotiate everything—fridges, cars, clothes, hotel rooms. I’ve learned to ask, “Is this the best you can do?” and am surprised to find that if you ask, there is often a discount available or freebies they can throw in.
As you can see, there are numerous high-income skills that can help you achieve career success and reach financial freedom faster. By focusing on these areas, you can boost your career without the need to learn coding or technical skills. It’s never too late to start learning and improving. So why not pick one of these high-income skills and begin your journey today?
And, if you are not sure which one best suits you, we have the best career assessment tests in the world included in The Career Change Kit.
