Mean Income: $90,410 Top 10%: $128,101
Public relations can be either amazing or a nightmare. This job requires a lot of communication, and an ability to spin and present bad things positively. Public relations managers basically have to make sure everyone thinks favorably of their product/company. It’s all about maintaining that great image in the minds of others.
To get into the field, you’ll probably need a Bachelor’s degree in Communications or a related field (or a related cousin). Having a lot of experience and successful past accomplishments obviously helps too. You’ll also want to develop really good communication skills, both written and spoken.
Art Directors
Mean Income: $95,500 Top 10%: $166,620
Art Directors are responsible for things like designing video games and turning them from an art project into a real business. This means that you need to have both a creative mind and higher managerial and number-oriented skills. Steve Jobs is a great example of such a mix.
In terms of credentials, you’ll need to have a BA and at least a few years of working in a management position (unless you’re planning to start or join a new company). This is a potentially risky position. Art directors are often blamed if projects end up failing for any reason, as they are responsible for both the artistic and business side of things.
Insurance Sales Agents
Mean Income: $62,970 Top 10%: $115,300
Depending on your state, the qualifications for becoming an insurance agent could be as simple as taking a basic course, passing some tests, and getting your license. This job will be either one of the worst career paths you’ve ever tried or one of the most lucrative and rewarding ones. Many insurance agents get paid “passive” monthly income for retaining their clients. If you’re great at sales, this may just be the job for you.
Depending on your temperament and level of motivation, this could be either extremely rewarding and satisfying or downright awful. What’s certain is that in this career, only you can truly make your fortune.
Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers
Mean Income: $70,010 Top 10%: $112,150
Despite many regulations and economic issues, farming is still one of the most lucrative fields in the rural market and has the potential for a hefty income. If you’re not afraid of hard work, heavy machinery, and having to work with mother nature, this might be a great job for you. If, however, you’re a more desk-oriented person, agricultural managing might be a good choice.
Lacking experience shouldn’t stop you, as you can simply start by becoming an apprentice of an experienced farmer. This is an industry that’s always looking for high-quality people, so try your luck if you love the idea of getting your hands dirty and making a profit at the same time.
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
Mean Income: $75,550 Top 10%: $137,570
If you’ve got some experience in law and have a knack for solving disputes, one interesting career option might be to become an arbitrator, mediator, or conciliator. Businesses and organizations frequently enter into complicated disputes, and they need someone who’s impartial, talented and highly experienced to help them solve these disagreements.
Once you’re working with high-status individuals, you can sometimes charge a certain percentage of the deal you’re helping mediate. Basically, this is a very lucrative field, but you’ll need to have a spit-shine reputation and a highly developed ability to read people. If you’re not interested in reading hundreds of psychology and leadership books, it’s best to just sit this one out.