Congratulations, you’ve earned your college degree! Now, how are you going to optimize that diploma? Here are some tips for maximizing your earning potential and meeting your career goals now that you’re a college grad.
Take a minute to celebrate
Simply having a bachelor’s degree in hand increases your earning potential by a huge amount: the median salary for individuals with a bachelor’s degree is around $60,000, while those with just a high school education earn a median of around $35,000. A big hurdle is already behind you. Good work.
Set your priorities
Now that you’re feeling good about your efforts, it’s time to make some choices about what’s truly important to you in your career.
Do you value service, or are you just trying to make a million dollars? If it’s the former, then maybe nonprofits or religious organizations offer the right path. If it’s the latter, perhaps you’ll want to greatly increase your earning potential by following the big moneymaking tracks: finance, investing, and the like.
This link includes an extensive list of average salaries for lots of careers. Do some soul-searching before committing to a career track.
Don’t settle
Once you’ve landed your first big job in your new career, keep in mind that sticking around until retirement doesn’t necessarily translate to career success or the highest earning potential.
Individuals who transfer laterally throughout their career can expect to earn up to 10 percent more than those who stay with the same company.
And don’t be meek about asking for a fair salary and, when appropriate, a raise. Take action and advocate for yourself. Renegotiate your initial salary.
Show your new employer right off the bat that you are not going to accept the lowest offer, and he or she will respect your salary increase requests more the next time you make them.
Keep notes that track your accomplishments so you have evidence to back up any requests for raises. Be your own best advocate, and if you’re unhappy at a job, don’t be afraid to find another one.
Remember, this is only the beginning. Click this link to read more about these and other career tips to increase your earning potential.
