Certain careers require more critical thinking skills and problem-solving ability than others. While we’re not disputing the difficulty level of other kinds of work, some professions simply call for more mental agility than others. These careers are ideal for those who want to keep their minds sharp through the work they perform on a daily basis.
Real Estate Agent
It takes a lot of brainpower to be a successful real estate agent. Essentially, you represent the buyers or sellers of residential and commercial properties. Depending on where you live and intend to work, this could be a very profitable business to get into. Real estate agents can make anywhere from $30,000 and more each year on commissions. As you gain more experience in your career, you can even consider investing and flipping properties or selling multi-million dollar mansions to the elite.
Wondering how to become a commercial real estate agent? Perhaps you’re interested in residential clients only? Whichever you decide, you’ll need to be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass the state real estate license exam.
Certified Accountant and/or Tax Preparer
They say money makes the world go around. If there’s one industry that’s worth getting into, it would certainly be the financial industry. From large corporations to everyday citizens, everyone needs assistance in managing their finances or completing their taxes. As an accountant, you can provide services that include reviewing financial statements, preparing tax returns, generate financial reports, maintain financial records, assist with business efficiency and money-saving efforts, and much more. Accountants, depending on their clientele and services offered can make as much as $35,000 or more a year.
To become an accountant, you will need to have a college degree (associates, bachelors, or masters). You will also want to take classes to receive your certified professional accountant or CPA certification.
Website Designer/Developer
The trends of current times clearly show that the internet isn’t going anywhere any time soon. As such, new and established businesses of all sizes are always in need of innovative websites to increase traffic and enhance their brands. Website developers are in high demand from startup blogs to fortune 500 companies, the need for compelling talent to take their websites to new heights is ongoing.
While you don’t necessarily need any educational experience to become a web developer, it is highly recommended when trying to enter this very competitive industry. Obtaining a college degree in web design, graphic design, art, or web developing is ideal. From there you can begin developing your own website to look for clients. Some freelance web designers make as much as $50,000 a year or more.
Business Consultant
If you have extensive experience in a particular industry, you may be able to turn all those years of work into a lucrative entrepreneurial opportunity. Business owners are always looking to experts in their fields for advice on how to make their enterprises more successful. Whether you decide to earn your money by speaking at business conferences, working on the advisory board of a successful brand, or giving your expertise to startups and existing businesses on a contract basis, there’s a lot of money to be made. Independent consultants can easily average $40,000 a year while a consulting firm can make hundreds of thousands each year.
Again, you don’t need any serious educational experience to become a business consultant. That being said, a degree in business, accounting, or management under your belt can help to set you apart from other consultants. Essentially, you can create a website, add your list of services, and begin using online marketing methods to attract new customers.
This is just a small portion of the many business ideas within these industries and others that you can get into and earn a decent living. If you’re trying to discern which entrepreneurial venture would be best suited for you, consider your educational background, interests, and professional experience.