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Feeling buried under work and like your efforts aren’t being valued (or paid) enough? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this boat. A recent survey showed that a staggering 56% of American workers are also on the hunt for a new full-time gig. And the number one reason behind this career switch craze? You bet—it all boils down to that sweet, sweet paycheck.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. We all know that the average hourly wage in the US floats between $30 and $34. However, I’m sure you’re itching to learn about those not-so-obvious jobs that pay around $40 an hour and could potentially skyrocket you to a staggering $100k per year. Enticing, right?
But wait a sec! Before we get into those tantalizing details, let’s discuss something super important: finding a job you’re genuinely crazy about and deeply passionate about. When you love what you do, it hardly seems like work at all. And the best part? That burning passion often pushes you to outdo yourself, opening doors to promotions and, you betcha, bigger paychecks.
So, with that golden nugget in mind, we’re about to spill the beans on some high-paying and seriously fun jobs that genuinely appreciate your skills and dedication. These are the kinds of careers that just click with your interests and passions, setting you up for both personal happiness and financial success.
Alright, enough waiting! Grab your favorite beverage, get all cozy, and let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure to uncover the next awesome chapter in your professional story!
PIN (OR BOOKMARK) THIS PAGE: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page and find more jobs that pay $40 an hour!
1. Freelance Writer
Average Hourly Rate: $25/hour to $60/hour
You know how reading can bring us to places we’ve never been before? Well, imagine being the one who makes those journeys. You’ll get to move people with your words, whether it’s by persuading them to buy a product, encouraging them to subscribe to a channel, or motivating them to support a cause. That’s how impactful you can be as a freelance writer!
With the rise of automated content generation, many people are starting to think that freelance writers are no longer needed. But what many people don’t realize is that it’s one of the fastest-growing freelance jobs! Sure, AI can generate content quickly, but it lacks that human touch that helps us connect on a deeper level.
As a freelance writer, you have to be able to cut through the noise and make your message heard. It’s very easy to write something about any given topic, but not everyone is a great writer. Can you inject personality, passion, and purpose into what you write? If so, then that’s a good start.
But becoming a freelance writer isn’t just about writing. You also have to research, do revisions, and constantly adapt to the trends. There really is a lot of work that goes into becoming a successful writer, so it’s not just enough that you want to write.
Once you do get a hang of the craft, it becomes a very fun and lucrative job with a lot of perks! As a freelancer, you’re not bound to any company or business. You will usually work on a per-project basis. It also means that you can work from home anytime you want, as long as you’re getting your outputs done on time. Working with your pajamas on? Sure! Working while sipping some coconut on the beach? Sure!
You don’t have to face any customers nor do you have to interact with anyone if you don’t want to. What’s not to love?
Although it can take some time to establish yourself in the world of freelance writing, it’s not impossible. With each project you complete, you can build a solid portfolio, increase your rates, and attract higher-paying clients. Plus, since you can take on as many projects as you can handle, the sky’s the limit with this job!
Pros: Peace and quiet work. No need to work or converse with others. You just write the task at hand.
Cons: Limited job opportunities if you lack experience or a portfolio. Sometimes, your writing style may not align with a client’s needs, leading to potentially missed gigs.
2. Blogger
Average Hourly Rate: $30/hour to $60/hour
Walking away from a stable job to chase your dreams can be a nerve-wracking and uncertain venture, particularly when others might doubt your aspirations. However, as someone who transitioned from the world of banking to a full-time blogger, I can assure you that it’s not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. While it’s no easy feat and demands dedication, it’s a far cry from spending my days shackled to a corporate job, dreading life. In fact, I’m infinitely happier now than when I was confined to an office (plus, I earn far more with my blog than my corporate job).
Starting a new adventure can be as overwhelming as a kid standing in a candy store, faced with countless sweet options to choose from. I remember feeling the same way when I first started, but to make things easier, try focusing on a niche that goes along with your interests. It’s like picking your favorite candy—choose what you really enjoy.
For me, I was passionate about making and saving money, so creating a personal finance blog was like grabbing my favorite chocolate bar. I absolutely loved sharing my money-saving tips and tricks, helping my readers get out of the non-stop cycle of living paycheck to paycheck.
First, you’ll need to choose a niche to write about. Here are some profitable niches to consider:
- Lifestyle: Discuss your ideal home office setup, transitioning to eco-friendly living, or favorite healthy meal-planning recipes.
- Parenting: Share insights on raising emotionally intelligent kids, navigating remote learning, or motivating children with age-appropriate chores.
- Arts & Crafts: Offer DIY watercolor techniques, upcycling clothing ideas, or tips on starting an Etsy shop for handmade crafts.
- Home & Gardening: Provide a guide to organic gardening, low-maintenance plants, or designing functional outdoor spaces.
- Home Decor & DIY: Explore small space transformations, budget-friendly improvements, or upcycling furniture projects.
- Personal Development: Delve into developing a growth mindset, mastering time management, or building resilience against stress.
How to make money blogging
Now, you might be wondering how to generate income with a blog. The key lies in addressing your readers’ problems and offering solutions.
Take my blog, for instance. As a personal finance blogger, I tackle the financial challenges and concerns people face daily. Instead of merely highlighting an issue, I provide actionable solutions to resolve the problem.
Offering answers to your readers’ dilemmas helps you establish authority within your niche. Building a loyal audience is vital, as this influence can be monetized in various ways:
- Affiliate Marketing: Promote products or programs to your readers and earn a commission every time they purchase through your link. I’ve made over $100,000 using this passive income method.
- Ad Space: As your website traffic grows, companies may want to rent space on your site. You might even spot some ads on this page. This is one way to get paid to advertise online.
- Courses and Programs: Your audience returns to your site for your knowledge and insights. You can monetize this by selling courses or eBooks. For example, create a course on saving 50% of your monthly income or cultivating a thriving garden in your backyard.
Starting a blog may seem daunting, but the financial rewards are unparalleled. I began earning around $700 per month and boosted that to over $10,000 within 1.5 years!
I documented my blog’s journey from $0 to over $25,000 per month in my raw and honest blog income reports. You’ll see how much I struggled at the beginning when I was barely making any money. But with time and persistence, my blog’s traffic and income increased significantly.
Blogging is a prime example of an asymmetric opportunity online. These opportunities involve minimal risk but offer immense rewards. The sky’s the limit when it comes to the earning potential that blogging can unlock.
If you don’t know where to start, check out my FREE 7-Day e-mail course to learn how to start a profitable blog. It walks you through the entire process, step-by-step. And it’s completely free!
Pros: Easy and affordable with low investment costs and minimal overhead. Blogging gives you the freedom to write about topics that you are passionate about and that interest you.
Cons: It can take some time and hard work to grow a dedicated following, which means you’ll need to consistently produce top-notch content to keep your readers interested.
3. Financial Manager
Average Hourly Rate: $60/hour to $81/hour
Businesses won’t succeed without all of the people working behind the scenes to achieve their financial goals. But let’s face it, even with people working tirelessly, if there’s no guidance on financial decisions, you can’t expect a business to last long.
Without someone knowledgeable about how to handle big finances, a business will drift aimlessly like someone going on a road trip without a GPS. That’s where a financial manager comes in. Financial managers are the ones steering these businesses through troubled waters.
Because of the exceptional skills that are required for individuals to become financial managers, it’s not a surprise that it’s one of the highest-paying jobs on this list. As a financial manager, you need to have strong analytical skills, be financially savvy, and possess exceptional decision-making abilities. Although crunching numbers is a big part of your job, it’s not the only focus.
Along with computing numbers, you have to interpret the data you’re getting and make strategic decisions based on those. You are getting paid a lot because the future of a whole business pretty much lies in your hands.
It’s not easy to be a financial manager. Most of the time, you can only get to this position if you already have a proven track record. It’s expected since no business will want to entrust their whole financial well-being to someone inexperienced.
Personally, spending my days working with numbers and Excel spreadsheets wasn’t very fulfilling to me. It’s not the kind of work that makes me happy, but I know and have seen a lot of people who enjoy the pressure and challenges that come with the job. We’re all different, and this might be the ideal path for you, so you don’t have to take my experience as the standard.
As someone who came from the industry, though, I have a few tips and advice for you if this is the path you want to set out on. It’s best to start exploring entry-level positions first, like junior accountants or credit analysts. Like I said, businesses want someone experienced, with a proven track record. Your experience will matter more than any grades!
It also wouldn’t hurt to build your network and connections. They can help you land your first job in the field. Remember, don’t only work hard. You should also work smart.
Since your track record and experience are important, I also suggest becoming a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). These additional credentials, although not required, will help you command a higher salary and will make you more attractive to potential employers.
Pros: You play an important role in the company. You’re shaping the future of an entire business.
Cons: There is a high level of stress when it comes to the finances of a company, especially since you’re the manager of the department.
4. Fitness Instructor
Average Hourly Rate: $26/hour to $47/hour
Want to stay active and earn a healthy salary while working out? You can earn more than $40 as a fitness instructor when you leverage the power of the internet. Unlike in the past, when fitness instructors could only get paid when physically present with a client, today’s technology allows them to offer virtual coaching and instruction as an additional source of income.
There are countless stories of fitness instructors who increased their earnings when they brought their services online. Amy was one of those success stories. She was a waitress who earned $200 per month but eventually increased that to $12,000 when she pivoted to being an online fitness trainer!
Pros: You don’t have to be physically present when interacting with a client.
Cons: You can’t delegate the task of guiding your clients through workouts and diets. This makes it hard to scale your business.
5. Massage Therapist
Average Hourly Rate: $34/hour to $60/hour
After a day filled with sales calls and a barrage of customer complaints, who wouldn’t want a soothing massage to melt their worries away? As a massage therapist, your days would be spent alleviating discomfort and offering a haven of relaxation and serenity following a demanding work week. We’re well aware that sitting at a desk all day wreaks havoc on our bodies and posture. Professionals who can help alleviate these issues are always in demand. Massage therapy is an enriching career, offering up to $40 an hour, even without a degree.
If the notion of a massage therapist career entices you, begin this exciting journey by obtaining the necessary certifications and diving into training programs to hone the essential skills. Venture into this enriching educational experience by discovering accredited massage therapy schools near you, and get ready to master the art of healing touch.
Upon completing your massage therapy training, you’ll move on to the important next step: passing a licensure exam and obtaining a license to practice in your state or desired location. For example, if you see yourself working in the sunny state of California, you’ll need to pass the MBLEx exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements to become a licensed therapist. Acquiring a license is indispensable, as it validates your qualifications and expertise, empowering you to deliver exceptional massage therapy services to your clients. By proudly holding a license, you showcase your unwavering dedication to professionalism, ethics, and safety—factors that contribute to building a sterling reputation and fostering a devoted clientele.
Apart from working in soothing facilities, luxurious spas, and various other establishments, massage therapists have the opportunity to bring their healing touch directly to clients’ homes. This convenient service not only offers a more personalized experience but also presents an excellent avenue for increasing income. By setting their own rates and retaining all the gratuities they earn, massage therapists can truly reap the rewards of their skills and dedication.
Pros: The tranquil work environment often allows for minimal conversation with clients during massage sessions, making it a peaceful and soothing experience.
Cons: It can be hard on your body and arms. You’re constantly pressing and exerting force on clients’ backs and legs.
6. Veterinarian
Average Hourly Rate: $80/hour to $140/hour
The delight of having adorable pets as your clients every day is unmatched!
Choosing a career as a veterinarian is a fantastic path for animal lovers to follow their passion and make a real difference. You’ll play a vital role in improving the lives of pets and bringing peace of mind to their human families.
With the option to work in various settings like animal hospitals, zoos, or wildlife centers, you can pursue your calling, whether it’s caring for beloved pets or helping protect and treat wild animals. It’s a career that lets you genuinely embrace your love for animals while positively impacting the lives of both your furry patients and the people who cherish them.
In order to diagnose and treat animals, you’ll first need a bachelor’s degree, giving you a solid foundation in subjects such as physical science and biology.
After graduating, seek internships at establishments around your city to gain hands-on experience. Tackle cases ranging from simple to complex. This diverse exposure will help accelerate your growth in the real world. As with any profession, experience is your most valuable teacher. Classroom lessons remain theoretical until applied in a practical work setting.
This fulfilling career allows you to help your furry clients feel better and enjoy longer, healthier lives, making it one of the most rewarding jobs out there.
Pros: You get to work with animals, and with the pet industry continually expanding, more opportunities are available.
Cons: Pursuing a career as a vet requires attending veterinary school, which can be quite costly.
7. App Developer
Average Hourly Rate: $62/hour to $76/hour
It’s hard to find someone without a smartphone these days. We’ve become inseparable from our pocket-sized devices, relying on them for messaging, work, and entertainment. In fact, some people manage to complete their entire job using just this tiny gadget, a testament to the incredible power they hold.
The secret behind their potency? It’s all about the apps. That’s why ambitious entrepreneurs are constantly searching for the next groundbreaking application, knowing that success could result in a financial windfall. This hunger for innovation has put app developers in high demand, as their skills and expertise hold the keys to the future of mobile technology.
You can think of app developers like digital artists, painting masterpieces with code. They breathe life into new apps, fine-tune them for optimal performance, and hunt down pesky bugs that might be lurking in the shadows.
If you have the talent for turning a simple idea into a practical one, you’ll find yourself highly sought-after in the technology sphere. Eager to flaunt your creative prowess? Design your very own app that highlights your distinct abilities and vision. You never know, you could be the genius responsible for the next groundbreaking innovation!
Pros: It’s an in-demand job that clients would pay good money for because there are not a lot of people who can turn an idea into a working application.
Cons: It can take a lot of your free time since app developers usually work with a deadline.
8. Social Media Manager
Average Hourly Rate: $31/hour to $52/hour
Do you know what’s a super cool job these days? Being a social media guru! It’s no surprise, really, because small and medium-sized businesses are all about making a name for themselves on social media. They’re on the lookout for someone who can genuinely connect with their audience. Yeah, anyone can create an account, but not everyone’s got that certain “oomph” to put together campaigns and posts that truly resonate with their followers.
In the dynamic world of social media management, your day-to-day might look like this:
- Crafting irresistible social media posts that pop
- Tweaking clients’ accounts and posts for max impact
- Chit-chatting with commenters and handling questions
- Cooking up fresh and platform-specific content ideas
As a social media superstar, you’ll get to interact with big-time industry pros and influencers. Good old-fashioned networking still works wonders, even in our digital age.
Based on my own experience, I’d recommend you really hone in on your favorite social media platform and become an expert at it. In my case, I was naturally drawn to Pinterest, a platform I love for discovering new recipes to experiment with and seeking inspiration for home decor. I realized I could leverage my familiarity and affinity for Pinterest to drive traffic to my blog. Just like how you might become adept at creating content, optimizing videos, and engaging with subscribers if YouTube is your arena of interest. As you gain confidence and proficiency in your chosen platform, feel free to expand your reach to other platforms like Instagram. Remember, though, that each platform has its own nuances, requiring you to tweak your approach to capture attention, draft compelling captions, and generate stories that keep your audience coming back for more.
Pros: Numerous social media managers relish the flexibility of working from anywhere, and the expertise acquired in this role can be the launching pad for kickstarting your very own social media agency.
Cons: Embracing the managerial role also means accepting full responsibility for any dips in online metrics and engagement.
9. Proofreader
Average Hourly Rate: $28/hour to $44/hour
Are you looking for a late-night job that pays a nice $40 an hour? Think about becoming a proofreader, the watchful protector of written content! Working as a skilled proofreader is like playing a game of “Where’s Waldo?”; you meticulously search through the sea of text, identifying errors and discrepancies that may be hiding in plain sight.
Unlike freelance writers who create and shape new ideas, proofreaders concentrate on making content better and error-free. They’re really good at quickly finding mistakes and making sure the finished work meets the company’s high standards.
There’s no specific way to become a proofreader, but taking free courses in the field can be like finding a helpful map that shows you the way. It gives you an idea of how proofreading is done and what tools help you be proficient in this industry.
A proofreader needs to have excellent writing and communication skills, be very detail-oriented, and manage their time well. There’s also another important skill that people sometimes forget: being able to adapt to changing writing styles and trends. This critical talent helps ensure your clients’ content remains fresh and engaging in a rapidly changing world.
Pros: You can work in any niche or industry. The same responsibility is done no matter what field you’re working in.
Cons: The work can be repetitive. The job requires you to constantly read and spot mistakes.
10. Coding Instructor
Average Hourly Rate: $33/hour to $49/hour
I wanted to bring up coding instructors because there are loads of people teaching coding out there, but only a small number can actually teach it really well and make the lessons simple to grasp.
Keep in mind that not all coding experts are great teachers. Some might struggle with communication, while others just aren’t interested in teaching. It’s pretty rare to come across an amazing coder who’s also great at teaching students. If you can do this, you’re likely to earn a higher salary than most.
In the world of teaching, patience proves to be an invaluable virtue, particularly when guiding fresh-faced beginners. As the world of programming unfolds before them, novices often find themselves overwhelmed, much like a child grappling with their first words. An outstanding instructor, however, is a beacon of patience, nurturing each learner’s unique pace and persistently clarifying concepts until they are fully grasped.
And there’s more! A truly epic coding instructor is also a source of creativity. This visionary mastermind of code encourages their students to break free from conventional thought and invent imaginative solutions to the mind-bending puzzles of programming. In the ever-evolving tapestry of technology, there’s often more than one way to solve a problem. A teacher who cultivates their students’ creative spark enables them to unearth innovative and efficient approaches to problem-solving. By fostering a creative mindset, a coding instructor not only hones learners’ problem-solving skills but also equips them to conquer the ever-changing tech landscape.
Pros: Other than the high earnings, you’ll also feel a sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that you played a part in students’ success.
Cons: You need to keep up to date with new programming languages.
11. Web Designer
Average Hourly Rate: $35/hour to $62/hour
You’ve heard it before: “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But let’s face it, when a restaurant’s website resembles a relic from the digital stone age, it’s hard not to question the quality of its menu items. If the owners aren’t bothered about their virtual window display, can you really trust them to whip up an exquisite meal for their customers?
To sweep potential customers off their feet, businesses need dazzling websites that are not only visually appealing but also function seamlessly. Enter the web designer, a digital maestro armed with the skills to turn dreary online facades into eye-catching online exhibitions.
Being an expert in virtual design, web designers can expect to:
- Claim their domain (literally) by registering web addresses
- Craft mesmerizing website designs and layouts
- Collaborate closely with clients, transforming their visions into digital masterpieces
- Remain at the cutting edge of web design, mastering the latest tools and software
In today’s fast-paced world, snap judgments are made based on the allure of a website’s design and layout. That’s why businesses are eager to invest in creating gorgeous, user-friendly websites that leave an indelible first impression. A lackluster site, marred by outdated features or peculiar design elements, is all it takes for potential customers to swiftly click away, seeking the next tempting alternative.
Pros: You can work remotely and have multiple clients at the same time.
Cons: It’s an industry of constant learning and education because trends and design quickly change.
12. Starting A Personal Brand
Average Hourly Rate: Varies
A personal brand is like your reputation or image in a certain area, like sports or music. It’s what people think of when they hear your name. By crafting a killer personal brand, you can totally stand out and flex your skills for all to see. In doing so, you open the door to a wealth of opportunities and, perhaps, even pave the way to a more prosperous future.
Suppose you’re clever at whipping up witty videos that revolve around customer service encounters. By focusing on churning out even more of these captivating shorts, you’ll reel in an audience that can’t resist that kind of content. As you consistently deliver laughter-inducing material, you’ll build a loyal following, hungry for more of your hilarious creations and excited to share them with friends. This is the secret sauce for morphing your personal brand into a dazzling phenomenon that leaves people craving more.
As for my brand, Finsavvy Panda, it operates within the personal finance sphere but doesn’t try to win over the stock market or cryptocurrency investors. Instead, it focuses on empowering people to earn and save more money.
When your brand starts gaining traction, a world of monetization possibilities unfolds, such as eBooks, affiliate marketing, paid subscriptions, and online courses. Producing online courses can be particularly gratifying since you only need to record the content once and can continue selling it indefinitely.
Pros: Earning potential has no limit. Digital products only need to be made once and can be a source of passive income for you.
Cons: You’d have to work extra hard to get people to notice your content when you’re in a niche that’s a bit saturated or has a lot of people building a personal brand as well.
13. Nurse
Average Hourly Rate: $42/hour to $72/hour
The importance of a nurse goes beyond the hospital setting; they are truly essential to our society. Just imagine stepping into hospitals and other healthcare facilities without nurses; patient care would undoubtedly turn into a chaotic mess!
Nurses are truly the backbone of patient care in hospitals and clinics. They’re right there on the front lines, handling medication administration, monitoring vital signs, and making sure everyone stays informed about a patient’s treatment plan—covering everything from when meds are due to be taken to regular assessments.
One of the best things about being a nurse is that it’s an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling job. You get to make a real difference in people’s lives every single day. Plus, with the current shortage of nurses, job stability is pretty much a given.
While the salary for nurses is generally quite good, there are some challenges. The emotional demands of the job and long hours on your feet can be tough, so it’s not a job for everyone.
That being said, if your heart’s set on nursing and you’re determined to make it work, consider furthering your education. A master’s degree in advanced clinical practice could be the ticket to not only increasing your salary but also opening up new career opportunities. With that shiny degree and your experience, you’ll have even more reasons to be proud of your rewarding nursing career!
Pros: Highly competitive salary and benefits with lots of career advancement opportunities.
Cons: Nurses work long shifts and are often overworked.
14. Makeup Artists
Average Hourly Rate: $25/hour to $66/hour
Makeup artists have an extraordinary talent for completely transforming someone’s appearance—just take a look at those jaw-dropping before and after shots all over TikTok and YouTube! As a makeup artist, you’ll often work on a gig basis, being hired for special events or projects. Full-time employment is less common, usually reserved for those in the entertainment industry.
Payment for makeup artists typically comes in the form of hourly or daily rates, depending on the agreement with the client. Most artists have a set rate for their services, making the process straightforward.
As you work your magic, it’s essential to have a friendly demeanor and be open to clients’ preferences. Being accommodating can lead to more referrals, opening up even more opportunities for you.
Of course, being a skilled makeup artist requires training, so consider taking courses or attending a vocational school with a relevant program.
However, working with clients doesn’t have to be your only income source. You can also become a beauty content creator on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to grow your reach and network. Many makeup artists create digital products like tutorials or technique guides that their audience can purchase, offering an additional income stream.
If your online presence takes off, you might even be approached by makeup or beauty brands for sponsored content or to become a brand ambassador! These opportunities can be quite lucrative, so don’t miss out on the chance to earn even more.
Pros: Your expertise can make a statement on its own. If you consistently deliver stellar results, clients will naturally be drawn to you.
Cons: Networking is essential to ensure people recommend your services to others, which might require extra effort and relationship-building.
15. Photographer
Average Hourly Rate: $20/hour to $48/hour
Have you ever been amazed by a beautiful moment and wished you could capture it forever in a photo? If you can imagine your stunning pictures hanging in homes and businesses, you might have a fun and well-paying talent!
Photography has been around for decades. It’s one of those industries that has yet to be disrupted by AI because humans are just so good at manually capturing beautiful and stunning shots.
One of the remarkable aspects of being an accomplished photographer is that you can turn a whole city or area into your customers. If you’re great at taking photos, people will want you to capture both big and small events near you.
For those not quite ready to commit to full-time photography, weekends offer an excellent opportunity to explore their passion. With pay up to $40 an hour, it’s a nice part-time job that lets you keep your day job while meeting new people and getting better at photography on Saturdays and Sundays.
It can be tough to balance a day job with weekend photography, as you might not have days off and clients can come and go. A lot of pros started by doing free jobs, which helped them meet more people and build up a collection of work to show future clients.
To excel as a photographer, you’ll need a mix of technical knowledge and creativity. Understanding lighting, composition, and camera settings is vital, as is an eye for detail and the ability to anticipate the perfect moment to press the shutter.
Pros: Photography offers flexibility, allowing you to maintain your day job while pursuing your passion during weekends or holidays.
Cons: Initial investments can be costly, as you’ll need to purchase essential equipment such as lenses, studio space, and lighting.
16. Video Editor
Average Hourly Rate: $32/hour to $57/hour
A kickass video editor knows how to reel you in within the first few moments of a video. That’s the secret sauce, because, let’s face it, our attention spans these days are shorter than a goldfish’s! People are so quick to scroll to the next video if they aren’t instantly hooked.
I mean, just take a look at TikTok, Instagram reels, and YouTube shorts—they’re all bite-sized videos that let you swipe up and down in search of the next hot thing to watch. It’s that simple to find fresh stuff to feast your eyes on.
To really crush it as a video editor and keep viewers glued to the screen, there are a few crucial skills you need to nail. First up, timing is everything; knowing when to snip, switch, or let a scene chill can make or break the vibe you’re trying to create. This gut feeling helps you craft a smooth, captivating flow that keeps viewers hooked.
Proficiency in storytelling lies at the heart of premier video editing. It’s like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, where you carefully assemble clips and scenes to create a captivating tale that truly resonates with viewers. Imagine you’re editing a suspenseful thriller – you’ll need to sync up the script, the director’s vision, and the raw footage to deliver those spine-tingling moments that’ll keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
Pacing is like the secret ingredient in your storytelling recipe. A savvy editor knows how to balance high-octane action with slower, thoughtful moments, keeping viewers entertained and on the edge of their seats.
Sprinkling in eye-catching visual effects and transitions is another must-have skill for video editors. Tricks like color grading, motion graphics, and compositing can seriously up your video’s visual game, making it stand out from the crowd.
Pros: You can juggle multiple clients at once and even delegate some of the workload.
Cons: When everyone’s using the same editing styles, you’ve got to push your creativity to make your client’s video pop and set it apart from the rest.
17. Personal Chef
Average Hourly Rate: $28/hour to $51/hour
Ever dreamt of having a job where you can whip up mouthwatering meals without the chaos of a bustling restaurant kitchen? Say hello to the life of a personal chef! You can make a great living doing what you love, working one-on-one with clients who truly appreciate your tasty creations.
As a personal chef, you’ll feel right at home cooking up a storm in your clients’ kitchens – and guess what? No formal licenses or certifications are needed!
Naturally, if you’re truly passionate about the culinary arts, you’ll probably want to level up your skills with a health and cooking certification anyway.
This extra touch will give your resume the little sparkle it deserves.
Now, to keep your clients coming back for seconds (and thirds!), it’s essential to make your weekly menu a lively fiesta of flavors.
Get adventurous with a mix of cuisines and unexpected flavor combinations that’ll have your clients raving about your mouthwatering meals!
Keeping your clients happy and eager for more is key, and one fun way to do that is by shaking up your weekly menu. Try playing around with diverse cuisines and unique flavor pairings to make sure your clients stay excited about your tasty meals.
But wait, it doesn’t stop there! You can also make some extra dough by selling digital products online. Share your scrumptious recipes through eBooks or paid courses.
For example, whip up an eBook with a catchy title like “Protein-Packed Meals for Fitness Fanatics” or “15 Quick and Yummy Recipes for Busy Folks.” Sell them for $10 on your website, and you’ll have yourself a neat little passive income.
Pros: Unleash your creativity by showcasing your distinct culinary flair.
Cons: As a solo act, you can’t delegate the primary responsibilities of cooking to others.
18. Life Coach
Average Hourly Rate: $45/hour to $190/hour
It’s no secret that countless individuals are grappling to live their best lives. Be it toxic relationships, mental health challenges, or demanding jobs, many find themselves feeling stuck and unhappy.
That’s when a life coach makes a difference! In this role, you’ll be the cheerleader, encouraging folks to tackle life’s challenges head-on. You’ll offer guidance, support, and a nudge in the right direction, helping people pinpoint their goals and come up with a game plan to make those dreams a reality.
You could be a jack-of-all-trades life coach, helping clients with a mix of personal and professional goals. But, it’s often more fun and effective to focus on what you’re really good at and work with clients who need help in that specific area. Check out these examples to spark some ideas:
- Career: Lend a hand to those navigating work-life challenges, like discovering passions, goal-setting, snagging their dream job, or climbing the career ladder.
- Personal Development: Be a cheerleader for people striving for self-improvement, whether it’s boosting confidence, sharpening communication skills, managing time more efficiently, or kicking procrastination to the curb.
- Financial: Share savvy money advice on budgeting, saving, and investing to help clients achieve financial goals, from early retirement to homeownership.
- Spiritual: Guide those in search of a deeper spiritual connection by exploring practices like meditation, mindfulness, or finding their life’s purpose.
Initially, you may need to offer your coaching services for free to score some awesome reviews. There are lots of life coaches out there, but not all of them are great at helping people or have solid programs.
Pros: Feeling of fulfillment for helping people achieve their goals. You can hold classes or one-on-one sessions.
Cons: It’s a market that needs social proof for people to believe your strategy works.
19. Business Consultant
Average Hourly Rate: $48/hour to $77/hour
Making six figures a year as a business consultant is within reach. What’s the secret? It’s simple – these smart pros don’t settle for just any clients. They’ve climbed the ladder to a point where they can handpick clients who have reached impressive revenue or business value milestones.
Wondering what business consultants actually do? They whip up business plans, pump up companies’ sales and revenue, recommend efficient processes, and elevate customer service and satisfaction. They’re the go-to people for launching projects and achieving performance goals.
Okay, so starting out, you need to take it one step at a time and show everyone you’ve got what it takes to be a star in the market. While you’re on the job, stay super curious and learn everything you can about the industry. The more knowledge you obtain, the more you’ll get paid. Don’t just let the hours pass by – be that go-getter who asks questions and really dives headfirst into the business. Once you’ve become an expert in your field, you’ll be able to make a difference in the company in ways other employees might not even dream of. And as your skills get more and more attention, bam! You might find yourself tackling enormous projects for some seriously big-name companies!
Pros: Your success is tied to your client’s success. The more they win, the more your credibility soars.
Cons: This job comes with its fair share of pressure, as business consulting is all about results. Falling short of goals can quickly damage the reputation you’ve worked so hard to build.
20. Marketing Manager
Average Hourly Rate: $40/hour to $69/hour
Marketing managers are like the MVPs of a company’s marketing team. They make sure all the tasks get done and everything lines up with the big-picture plan. They’ve got their fingers in both online and offline marketing campaigns, and they often have a big say in what goes down.
Offline marketing covers a bunch of different tactics, like TV and radio commercials, billboards, ads in magazines, cool giveaways, trade shows, and more. Besides creating awesome campaigns, marketing managers need to really know the company’s target audience inside and out.
If you’re eyeing that marketing manager title, you’ll typically start your career in entry-level jobs like marketing assistant, social media coordinator, or public relations coordinator, grabbing all the hands-on experience you’ll need to crush it in the future.
To find those entry-level jobs, start by networking with people in the industry, whether it’s at college events, job fairs, or even on social media platforms like LinkedIn. Put together a standout resume that flaunts your skills, interests, and any experience under your belt, even if it comes from a class project or a volunteer stint.
For instance, let’s say you worked on a class project crafting a marketing plan for a fictional product or service. Don’t be shy, put that on your resume! Spotlight the relevant skills you picked up during the project, like market research, figuring out your target audience, or making creative content. This shows you’ve got a handle on marketing stuff and can put it to work in the real world.
As for volunteer work, maybe you helped a local non-profit organization or a community event by managing their social media accounts, creating promotional materials, or organizing fundraising campaigns. Include this experience on your resume, emphasizing the positive impact you made and any results you achieved, like increased engagement or funds raised. This demonstrates your hands-on experience and dedication to making a difference through marketing efforts.
Pros: When you excel in your role, companies will go above and beyond, using their resources to keep you and your valuable skills on board.
Cons: The pressure’s on! As the person overseeing all marketing activities, it’s up to you to make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
FAQs
1. What is $40 per hour in annual salary?
To put things in perspective, USA Today reported that the 2023 Q4 average U.S. annual salary is $59,384. Earning $40 per hour puts you at $83,000 per year, which means you’ll be more than the average worker in the nation.
But, unless you’ve got a diploma from a top-notch school and score a job as an engineer, doctor, or software engineer, it’s not super likely you’ll be earning over $80,000 a year right from the start. These big-bucks careers often demand loads of education and training, helping you shine among the competition and land that higher salary.
To reach this kind of success, focus on growing your skills and knowledge in the field you’re passionate about, and the financial rewards will follow. Jumpstart your progress by enrolling in online courses or volunteering for exciting projects at your current job.
2. How to make $40 an hour?
There are remote jobs that pay $40 an hour, while there are corporate positions that pay the same. It goes to show that the opportunity to make $80,000 a year is available everywhere.
Although some might need educational requirements, there are jobs like starting a personal brand or being a life coach that rely more on real-life experience than formal education. My best suggestion is to go for something that you’re interested in. Find an activity you like then research if it has any jobs related to it.
For instance, if you’re super into cryptocurrency and dream of launching a website packed with the latest news in the field, you could work as a freelance writer covering all the fresh crypto happenings. Not only will this gig help you hone your skills, but it’ll also score you some cash while you’re doing what you truly love.
Another example might be your passion for social media. Suppose you have a unique perspective on what’s trending and can spot viral content from a mile away. This talent could lead you to a fulfilling career as a social media manager.
Ultimately, following your true interests can help you score a job that’s not only rewarding financially but also genuinely enjoyable.
3. What jobs pay at least $50 an hour?
In any of the mentioned professions, such as financial manager, video editor, or massage therapist, it’s possible to earn $50 per hour. Often, the key to earning a higher paycheck is to get certified, rack up experience, undergo training, or pursue further education.
Making yourself more valuable in your role or within the company is the key to earning a heftier paycheck.
For example, a photographer who’s also skilled in video editing can offer a package deal and charge more. Similarly, a personal chef who’s certified as a personal trainer can bump up their hourly rate by offering both services to private clients.
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