Career planning | BookScouter Blog https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com Fri, 20 Dec 2024 10:01:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/favicon-master-150x150.png Career planning | BookScouter Blog https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com 32 32 Top 7 Highest Paying Jobs without a Degree https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 10:01:08 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=10545

Best Highest Paying Jobs without a Degree

College can be a big investment in time and money, and most who attend college do so to get a job. However, college isn’t the only route you can take to get a job; even high-paying jobs don’t require a degree.

With that said, if you’re on a hunt for a job that doesn’t require a college degree or are a college student looking for a job over the summer, then here are some of the highest-paying jobs that don’t require a degree.

Best Highest Paying Jobs without a Degree

Police Officer

If you’re interested in serving your local community, becoming a police officer is worth considering. The job typically offers a mix of desk and field work and will require training before you can officially start. The average salary for a police officer is around $59,000, and this commonly comes with benefits such as a 401(k) plan, health and life insurance, and others, depending on the location.

HVAC Technician

Becoming an HVAC technician is worth considering for those who enjoy working with their hands. HVAC technicians maintain, repair, and install ventilation equipment. The job typically involves driving from site to site to perform the work and often requires an EPA certification. When it comes to the average wage, EVAC technicians make around $70,000 a year. Benefits can include health and life insurance, a company truck (for work purposes), overtime possibilities, and more, depending on the company.

Plumber

The job of a plumber can vary widely from the typical maintenance and repair fixes on residential buildings to installing drainage systems for commercial and residential properties. Regular travel between sites is often the norm. The average salary for a plumber is around $73,000, and common benefits include a 401(k) plan, health and life insurance, and equipment, which may include a company phone, vehicle, and gas card.

Electrical Technician

Electrical technicians install, repair, and maintain electrical equipment and wiring. This job can involve a lot of traveling from site to site and requires a mix of reading technical diagrams and manual labor. Trade school or an apprenticeship are the best ways to get into this field of work. The average salary of an electrical technician is around $66,000 and can come with a 401(k) plan, health and life insurance, and several benefits, which may include incentive-based pay.

Sales Consultant

Becoming a sales consultant is a good option if you’re good with people and want to get into sales. The job can vary depending on the company, but it typically involves a lot of desk work on phone calls with current or potential clients. It can also involve “field work” to meet with clients in person. The average salary for a sales consultant is around $74,000; however, earnings are often commission-based and can vary significantly. Benefits are typically in the form of bonuses, which may also include a sign-on incentive.

Truck Driver

A truck driver position is regulated not just for semi-trucks but also for other commercial vehicles like dump trucks. While many truck driver positions involve long trips away from home, there are some that are regional where the driver can return home every day. A CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) will be necessary, and the rest of your training will often be facilitated by the company you join. The average salary is around $75,000, and benefits can include a 401(k) plan, health insurance, and paid training.

Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents earn on a commission-based system and are highly independent. If you want a flexible schedule and are willing to put in the work, then becoming a real estate agent is a good option. You will need to become licensed by the state and then find a brokerage to work through. The good news is that many brokerages will help newcomers by providing training, resources, and even assistance in getting licensed. The average real estate agent makes around $100,000 a year, but this number can vary greatly depending on the amount of work you put in and the market you are working in.

Final Thoughts: Next Steps

There are plenty of fields to choose from that don’t require a college degree and there is always the option to carve your own path by starting your own business.

If you’re debating about whether or not college is for you, there are high-paying jobs that don’t require a difficult major to get. There are also plenty of online jobs for current college students who want to make an income on the side.

Pardon the cliché, but the opportunities are endless, and a fulfilling career is achievable with or without a college degree.

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10 Insightful End of Year Reflection Questions for Students’ Personal Growth https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/end-of-year-reflection-questions-for-students/ Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:06:55 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=7697

end of year reflection questions for students

As the calendar pages turn, bringing us to the end of another year, students find a valuable moment to pause and think back. Reflecting on the past several months involves understanding how these moments have contributed to your personal evolution and growth.

Participating in this reflective exercise and asking yourself these reflection questions for students is essential — it helps in acknowledging how you’ve grown, learning from your past, and shaping your goals for the days ahead.

  1. What Achievements Are You Most Proud Of?
  2. Which Challenges Did You Overcome?
  3. How Have You Grown in Your Personal Relationships?
  4. What New Skills or Knowledge Did You Acquire?
  5. Which Moments Were Most Memorable and Why?
  6. How Did You Contribute to Your Community or Support Others?
  7. What Habits Do You Want to Continue or Change?
  8. What Are Your Goals for the Next Year?
  9. How Can You Make Your Learning Environment More Productive and Enjoyable?
  10. How Do You Plan to Take Care of Your Mental and Physical Health?

Now, let’s explore a few thoughtful end of year reflection questions that are designed to assist you in this journey of reflection and future planning.

What Achievements Are You Most Proud Of?

Consider the times in the past year when you felt a real sense of achievement. Did you excel in a particularly tough test, pick up a new skill, or play a key role in organizing an event? Thinking about these moments is a way to acknowledge your abilities and the effort you’ve invested.

Which Challenges Did You Overcome?

We all face obstacles, yet not all of us conquer them. Recall the difficulties you faced over the year. What strategies did you use to overcome them? This question isn’t just about the challenges and issues. It’s a celebration of how you were adaptable and solved problems that might have seemed impossible at one point. Be proud of your problem-solving skills and let this motivate you that you can also master next year’s challenges.

Staying motivated, especially when faced with challenges, is important throughout your student years. For strategies on keeping your drive alive, read about the role of motivation to finish your semester.

How Have You Grown in Your Personal Relationships?

Have you noticed any changes in how you interact with friends, family, and classmates? Your personal relationships are very meaningful and should not be neglected, even in busy study phases. Think about whether you’ve honed your listening skills or become more open in sharing your emotions. Find out in which areas you have grown and in which areas you might need to be more attentive.

What New Skills or Knowledge Did You Acquire?

Education extends beyond school walls. Perhaps you’ve started a new hobby, fine-tuned your time management, or stumbled upon a fascinating topic. Reflect on these newfound skills or knowledge and consider how they enrich your life. Finding a new passion or developing a new skill are reasons to be happy and proud.

Which Moments Were Most Memorable and Why?

Pause for a second and think back to the times this year that really stick with you. Why do these particular moments shine brighter in your memory? It could be an achievement you poured your heart into, a spontaneous adventure, or perhaps a peaceful, quiet moment that filled you with happiness. Appreciate your own personal highlights and be grateful for the valuable experiences gathered along the way.

How Did You Contribute to Your Community or Support Others?

Now, consider how you’ve reached out to your community or offered support to someone in need. Your efforts, whether grand or small, have made an impact. It might be through volunteer work, being there for a friend, or playing a key role in a team effort. Reflecting on these acts shines a light on your contribution to creating a positive space for others and the importance of being there for one another.

What Habits Do You Want to Continue or Change?

Think about your daily routines. What practices have positively influenced your well-being, productivity, or joy? Are there habits that might be limiting you or need tweaking? This is a chance to examine your lifestyle choices. Figure out what your strong points are and spot chances for self-improvement.

What Are Your Goals for the Next Year?

When you think about the next year, take a moment to really pin down your goals and aspirations. These could be anything from bettering your academic performance, acquiring new skills, to strengthening bonds with loved ones. Establishing clear targets in various life aspects can steer your actions and choices in the right direction. It makes your goals more achievable.

Setting realistic goals is key to your academic journey. For tips on how to set and achieve these goals, including the possibility of graduating early, check out how to graduate college early.

How Can You Make Your Learning Environment More Productive and Enjoyable?

Think about the impact of your learning environment on your academic achievements and enjoyment. Reflect on your study routines, how you organize your workspace, and the aesthetics of where you learn. What small changes can you make to boost your productivity and add a dash of joy to your learning? Often, it’s the little changes that have the largest impact.

How Do You Plan to Take Care of Your Mental and Physical Health?

While focusing on academic and personal advancement, remember the importance of your health. What actions can you take to care for your mental and physical health? It might be integrating exercise into your daily routine, practicing mindfulness, or seeking support when necessary. Remember, giving priority to your health is vital for a balanced and fulfilling life.

End Of Year Reflection Questions for Students: Final Thoughts

The act of looking back at the previous year through these end-of-year reflection questions is far more than a nostalgic trip. It’s an important part of personal development and future strategy formulation.

Think about your achievements, the obstacles you’ve tackled, and the wisdom you’ve gathered. That’s how you start preparing for your self-improving journey ahead. No matter if it’s about reinforcing good habits, aiming for new objectives, or adapting for your betterment, the insights from this reflection can help guide your decisions for the new year.

Now’s also a great moment to transform these thoughts into concrete actions. Pursuing new educational objectives, enhancing your study space, or focusing on your health — every move you make gets you closer to a more rewarding and successful tomorrow.

As you plan for the next semester and beyond, consider the importance of wisely spending your semester breaks. These breaks are not just pauses in your academic journey but opportunities for growth, rest, and preparation for what’s ahead.

Finally, overcoming academic problems is part of the college experience. For insights into dealing with grade disagreements and understanding your rights, explore our blog on the topic can a professor change a final grade?

Take your time to reflect and act on these reflection questions for students. You can be confident that you’re not just preparing for another year – you’re laying the groundwork for a future that’s rich with potential and purpose.

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How to Graduate College Early: 7 Working Strategies https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-graduate-college-early/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:08:57 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6968

how to graduate college early

Lots of students dream of finishing college early and starting their careers sooner.

Graduating early is a way to save time and money, but it takes a fair share of planning and effort.

In this article, we’ll share a few tips and recommendations from former students to help you understand how to graduate college early and what you can expect from such a scenario.

From picking a major that’s right for you and taking advantage of summer and winter classes to earning college credits while you’re still in high school—there are several things you need to consider if your goal is to graduate early.

How to Graduate College Early? Plan Ahead Thoroughly

Planning is absolutely essential if you want to graduate from college ahead of schedule. A well-structured plan makes such an ambitious goal realistic.

You can start by researching the requirements and options for your degree program. Go to your college website and check their information about early graduation.

Meet with educational advisors and connect with people with similar goals.

In the next step, learn about your course prerequisites and sequencing to plan accordingly.

Remember that you must always be specific and honest about your goals and deadlines to keep yourself on track. Planning has innumerable advantages, as it improves your time management, reduces stress, and increases your chances for academic success. And when you want to graduate college early, good planning is the key to pretty much everything.

Here’s what one of the Redditors say about proper planning:

“You’d have to plan carefully in order to spread 4 years worth of classes into 3 years, it basically comes down to math. Calculate the total amount of credits/courses you need and plan accordingly how many summers you need to put in. Do consider that it’s not always possible to achieve this kind of thing, depending on how long it takes you to get through the material. You’ll likely also have to take more than one hard class at a time because you won’t have that extra year to spread them out. I’d definitely recommend seeing an academic advisor to help you draw out a plan. I don’t see you being able to have much fun on the side, though, seeing as you’ll have less time to do more work, you will likely have very little spare time.” —fangs-

Select a Major that Allows You to Graduate Early

How to graduate early from college?” The choice of major can significantly affect the timeline, as different fields often have varying requirements and flexibility. Read “What is a Major, Minor, or Concentration in College?

Some majors, such as interdisciplinary programs or certain online degrees, are known to have fewer requirements or greater flexibility, which can speed up your path to graduation.

Alternatively, some majors may have stricter or more extensive course loads, and there are majors where you simply cannot graduate early due to the specifics of the disciplines you’ll be taking.

So, weighing teaching major’s pros and cons regarding graduation time, potential career opportunities, personal interest, and overall satisfaction is essential.

Always remember that choosing the right major is the best way to get a fulfilling college experience. Here’s what one of the Quora members says about choosing the right major:

“I’ve found that it’s easier to graduate early in the humanities because the workload does not include labs, which require you to attend double the class sessions. The sciences often have double the out-of-class work and projects, rather than papers and tests, making doubling up classes and summer work very difficult.” —Tamara Chacon

And here’s one Redditor’s answer to someone who’s a nursing major and wants to graduate college in three years:

“Speaking as someone who is a nursing major, it might not be entirely possible for you. Usually, nursing majors have a preferred “four-year plan” for you already set up, which details your courses throughout 8 semesters. The only reason I’m saying it might not be possible is because of your clinical hours that are required as well. I technically could have graduated in 3 years because I had 3 semesters that were only 9 credit hours. Still, if I would have condensed to make them 12-15 hours, I would have had nearly 120 clinical hours to complete in one semester, which is probably doable, but not easily. I recommend talking to your academic counselor and seeing if they have something in place like that. If you need any more information, you can message me and I can send you a photo of what my four year plan ended up looking like based on what my academic counselor put together.” —Thisisallie

Take Summer and Winter Courses

Taking classes during breaks can also help you graduate from college early. You can do it at the same school or a community college; just make sure the credits will transfer.

However, there are some potential downsides to consider, such as a heavier workload and increased stress. To manage everything, carefully plan your classes (make sure you know all about college classes that you should know), and don’t forget about self-care. By doing so, you can balance your studies, personal life, health, and well-being during summer and winter breaks.

Here are some Quora answers on summer courses and how to graduate college in 3 years:

“You will also have to do classes during the summer and possibly during your winter breaks.” —Nicole

 

“It depends on the school, the program, and your major(s). Generally speaking, if you take summer and online courses, you should be able to graduate in three years.” —Carol Baldridge

Take College Classes as a High School Student

How to graduate from college early?” By earning college credits in high school!

There are several options to pursue them, like through Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB),dual enrollment (DE), or the College Level Examination Program (CLEP).

However, be ready to face higher academic expectations and increased pressure and invest much time and effort in preparation. Here are some Reddit and Quora answers on taking college classes during high school:

“Do some research on your college website and find out which classes you can skip by scoring well on AP exams in highschool. Take as many AP exams that will transfer (and do well on them of course).” —Lewan72

 

“Summer classes, I’m graduating a semester early with a double major because of the sheer amount of AP classes i took in highschool. I’ve still gotta take summer classes to get out early.” —ncopp

 

“I came in with AP credits. I had credit for a couple of semesters of physics, calculus, and English. This not only decreased the number of credits, it enabled me to go right into intermediate courses.” —Rob Menes

Take the Maximum Number of Credits per Semester

Taking more credits per semester is another working strategy for graduating early, but you must be aware of the challenges.

First, check your school’s policies on the maximum number of credits allowed per semester.

Then, talk to your academic advisors or professors to understand whether it’s feasible.

Keep in mind that it’s also highly stressful, so do your best to make the most of a heavier course load, prioritize your tasks, stay organized, study efficiently, and use all available resources.

Surely, with some planning, you can make even the heaviest course load productive and manageable. After all, many students did it before you. Here are some Reddit and Quora stories:

“I graduated in 7 semesters by taking the Spanish placement test, then taking the credit equivalency test. I got 16 credits in the space of a couple hours. I also took a required stats class over the summer and was able to get 6 freshman English credits with my ACT score. My roommate my freshman year started college with an entire year’s worth of credits from dual enrollment classes he took in high school. He graduated a year early.” —notyogrannysgrandkid

 

“I took many courses each semester. Usually 6 or 7. I ended up with about 140 credits; most courses were 3 or 4 credits per semester. Within that total, I was able to take graduate courses in my field. Although I was a physics major, I didn’t have to take many lab courses (they require significantly more time).” —Rob Menes

Plan Your Daily Schedule

To plan your schedule effectively, use a planner or a calendar to visualize your time and set daily or weekly goals. It’s essential to find time for everything, from studies and classes to work and free time.

Taking breaks is just as important as working hard, as it helps you stay productive and focused, and you’ll feel less stressed, confused, or prone to procrastination. Make sure you always stay on track, adjust your schedule as necessary, and keep an eye on your progress and performance.

Don’t hesitate to make changes or improvements when needed. Let yourself rest when you feel tired or overwhelmed. Always reward yourself for meeting your goals. In the end, you will see that effective scheduling is the only way to early graduation. Here are some Reddit and Quora users advising on planning:

“If you’re graduating early, you’ll want to have a 3 or 4-year plan of what classes you need to take ready as early as you can meet with an adviser to plan it. Then, you’ll have to make sure you get these classes. You may also have to take classes you don’t like, take them at inconvenient times, work (if you work while going to school) nights, etc. to juggle all the things you need to do and get the right classes. For example, I had to be flexible and take several electives I wasn’t really passionate about because they were the only ones offered at times that allowed me to take extra classes each semester.” —Tamara Chacon

 

“Lay out your plan of study so you are sure you have the prerequisites ahead of the real class, and that the classes you need will be offered when you need them. Treat it like a job. Plan your days – classes, study, exercise, meals, hygiene, sleep. Keep a calendar showing when assignments are due. For big projects, break it down & plan each step.” —PlatypusDream

Arrange Your Finances Wisely

Finally, if you plan to graduate from college early, it’s important to think about the financial aspect in advance.

To get started, figure out how much you’ll need for tuition, textbooks, housing, and everyday expenses, then look at how much money you have coming in (e.g., a part-time job, an internship, scholarships, or financial aid). Keeping track of your money and sticking to your budget is essential.

Once you understand your income and expenses well, start thinking about ways to save money as a college student. Maybe you can buy used textbooks instead of new ones or share an apartment with a roommate to cut down on living costs (or use an opportunity to get free housing for college students).

You could also try earning some extra cash in college through freelancing or tutoring.

By planning your finances carefully, you can build up your savings and avoid financial problems. Plus, you’ll be investing in your future. Yet, early graduation comes with strings attached.

Some Redditors urge you to think really well about graduating early in terms of finances:

“While graduating early can save you a ton of money (saved me a whole year’s tuition!) it also means you’ll be paying for summer classes, extra classes during the normal semester, and extra books/supplies. Are you able to pay for these expenses or does spacing them out over multiple semesters make more sense for you?” —Tamara Chacon

 

“So, the best laid plan where you take an overload in the first semester ultimately causes you to need an extra year because of sequencing of courses, and now you’ve spent money on courses you shouldn’t have had to retake, plus your GPA is lower, which doesn’t matter a ton down the road, but there is a lot of data that shows that it matters for your first job offer compensation. In other words, if you take longer (even by a semester), and do better in that time, it can lead to higher overall earnings throughout your life.” — trustmeiknowthings

Final Thoughts

Graduating from college a bit earlier than most people do is a rewarding but challenging plan.

Today, we’ve explored some working strategies you can employ if early graduation is indeed your goal: careful planning, choosing a suitable major, taking summer and winter classes, earning college credits in high school, taking the maximum number of credits, planning your schedule very fastidiously, and arranging your finances wisely.

These strategies can help you save time and money and achieve your academic and personal goals sooner.

We hope that reading the recommendations from people who have already gone through a similar experience can help you decide whether or not to pursue early college graduation. We also hope that these pieces of advice will be useful on your journey.

Now, feel free to check out the article on what to do after you graduate college.

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What Are the Benefits of Attending a Local Community College? https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/benefits-of-attending-a-local-community-college/ Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:36:37 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6891

Choosing the right educational path is an important decision that can shape your future in many profound ways. While many people instantly default to thinking about four-year universities, we want to take a look at an often underrated alternative: community colleges.

You might be wondering: “What are the benefits of attending a local community college? Are there any?” We know that there are many benefits that you get to enjoy when you decide to attend a community college. That is why in this blog post, we will talk about the many benefits of attending a local community college. We will cover everything from affordability to flexibility and beyond.

Benefits of Attending a Local Community College

Affordability

Thinking about community college mainly because it is kinder to your budget? You might be asking, how much can I really save? Well, here are some numbers to consider: For the academic year 2021-2022, the average cost for tuition and fees at a public two-year college was $3,770. Compare that to $10,740 at a public four-year school. The difference is substantial and it could potentially be saving you thousands in student loans and money from your own pocket. To ensure that studying at a local college is truly more affordable, it’s worth examining the stats on the cost of attending 10 most expensive universities in the US.

But there are more opportunities to save besides tuition. Community colleges often offer additional ways to cut costs – ranging from cheaper parking permits to lower-cost textbooks.

Speaking of textbooks, did you know that you can save even more by being savvy about your study materials? Check out these 9 college must-haves for a scholar that help save money for tips on how to stretch your dollar even further. And when it comes to saving on textbooks, BookScouter has got you covered, making your community college journey even more affordable.

Flexibility

Another advantage of attending a community college is the flexibility it offers. No matter what your personal schedule looks like, community colleges might just be the solution to your scheduling worries. After all, community colleges provide a range of options to suit your needs. From evening and weekend classes to online courses, you can tailor your education to fit your lifestyle – no matter what that looks like and how busy it is.

This flexibility extends to the types of courses available as well. Community colleges have a lot to offer – ranging from career-focused training to basic courses you can later transfer to a bigger university. This gives you the freedom to try out various subjects without breaking the bank on tuition.

The flexible nature of these programs can also make your life a bit easier. Many students find they are less stressed and have a healthier balance between school and everything else. There is no need to force five classes into an already packed day. If two classes per semester or quarter work better for you, then that is totally possible and acceptable at a community college.

Quality of Education

A lot of people think the education at community colleges does not measure up to what you get at four-year schools. But that idea is more fiction than fact – way off the mark, actually.

In terms of educational quality, community colleges hold their own. Many have smaller classes. What does that mean? Well, you will get more one-on-one time with your teachers. Why is this such an amazing thing? The answer is that it creates a great setting for learning where students can easily join in discussions, ask all their questions, and really get to know their professors.

Recent studies and polls have shown that the quality of education at community colleges is comparable to that of four-year institutions. This is especially true in foundational courses. This means that you are not sacrificing educational quality for cost. It is quite the opposite: you are getting the best of both worlds.

Personal Growth and Extracurricular Activities

Community colleges go beyond classroom learning. They truly offer a wealth of opportunities for personal growth and other activities. Want to join clubs or participate in organized events? Numerous options and extracurricular activities for college exist to enrich your college life.

If you are looking for some fun on campus, then here are 12 fun activities for college students that you can engage in to balance your academic life and personal growth.

Student Satisfaction and Campus Life

The sense of community at a community college is often one of its most underrated aspects. These institutions offer a close-knit, supportive environment that fosters student satisfaction and well-being. You will often find welcoming orientations and ongoing student support services, which offer a warm and helpful atmosphere to all attending and future students.

Overall student satisfaction levels at community colleges are comparable to those at four-year institutions. They might even be higher. Take a look at these impressive (and unexpected) survey results:

According to RNL the 2022 National Student Satisfaction and Priorities Report showed that only 55 % of students at four-year private schools and 57% of students at four-year public schools were satisfied with their experience. At the same time, 68% of community college students stated that they were satisfied. This reflects a very positive campus life experience​ at community college campuses – and it can definitely compete with larger schools.

Believe it or not. It is not just us (and RNL) saying this. Check out these colleges known for having the happiest students. What you will find is that many of the factors that contribute to student happiness are also present at community colleges.

Is a Community College the Right Choice for You?

If you are still on the edge and weighing your options, let it be said that community colleges offer a range of benefits that make them a compelling option. You get a lot from community colleges: easy on the budget, flexible schedules, solid education, and a lively campus scene.

After scrolling through this blog, we hope you have gotten a clearer view of all the perks and benefits these schools offer. Did we answer your burning question, “Why should I consider a community college?” We hope so, and that you feel ready to pick a school that really fits what you are looking for.

As you weigh your educational options, do not overlook the value that a community college can bring to your academic and personal development. And for all your textbook needs, make sure to check out BookScouter to get the best deals and make your education even more cost-effective. ]]> Top 15 Jobs Perfect for Book Lovers https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/jobs-for-book-lovers/ Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:44:28 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6419  jobs for book lovers

There are several art forms to fall in love with. From visual arts to expressive music and dancing, there’s at least one form of art that catches your attention. One that’s quite popular among folks is the art of book writing. There are several reasons to fall in love with a book and also many ways to express that love.

For starters, there are several book genres ranging from old romance books to sci-fi and all-around fictional tales. Books also offer an escape from reality for individuals and offer them a portal to new worlds.

At the same time, your love for a book can be expressed through the job you acquire. There’s a job for every type of art, and book lovers aren’t left out. Read on to discover the 15 jobs for book lovers you need to have your eyes on.

Best Jobs to Get As a Book Lover 

1. Librarian

While others find the library a quiet and, sometimes, boring place to read and borrow books from, book lovers see it as heaven. What could be better for a book lover than being surrounded by books?! Working as a librarian offers the opportunity to get closer to books of all kinds.

It also means you have a job that allows you to display and share your literary knowledge with others. You get to sort, organize, and give out books. A dream job in a dream place. Librarians are hired in schools or public libraries.

2. Book Seller

If you don’t fancy mixing book knowledge with controlling the noise readers make, you can opt for the job of a bookseller. You have the option of applying to bookstores or you can go out and open your very own bookstore. And definitely don’t forget to check out how to start a bookstore business.

It takes a great amount of knowledge to sell books but that’s not a problem if you claim to love books. Romantic novels, classic comic books, self-help, motivational books, and many more are some of the books customers will be trooping in to purchase.

3. Author

If you’re a huge lover of books, why not write your own? One of the best ways to express your book fantasy is to create some stories of your own. Authors are widely respected and adored in the book industry and with so many genres to dive into, getting started isn’t the hardest thing in the world.

Every book lover has that one writer they could read anything from. But you too could be the next J.K. Rowling or Brandon Sanderson of your generation.

4. Publisher

If you’re not up for writing, you can still join the book production chain as a publisher. After a book has been written, it’s up to the publication company to publish it and have it distributed for consumption. These workers are termed publishers and offer a lot of input into the final product of any book.

Publishers also approve book projects and policies making it easier for authors to share their stories and fantasies with the rest of the world. It’s great to work in one of the big five publishing houses, isn’t it?

5. Teacher

If you want others to learn and adopt your love for books, you can choose to teach it to them. Teachers are undoubtedly the most knowledgeable set of workers and their contributions are immense to developments in society.

There are many fields to teach in and if you love reading books, you’ll also love sharing the knowledge from those texts. Whether it’s science, literature, or history, there are many teaching jobs for you to pick from.

6. Bloggers

Bloggers offer insights into multiple topics like teachers do but in different ways. These individuals are tasked with creating blog posts and articles for brands and websites. It’s a job that requires creative skills, vast knowledge of the content topic, and good use of words.

These are all skills acquired from reading books and they can translate to steady income when you take on a blogger role.

7. Social Media Manager

While bloggers create posts that draw people in, social media managers are there to fish new customers out. They do so by developing marketing strategies that are perfect for improving a brand’s image.

It also involves creating interesting media content and optimizing social media presence through posts and interactions. It’s a job that pays well and folks can have fun with it as well.

8. Book Critic

Let’s face it, we’re all critics in our way. Once a book has been read from cover to cover, there are always ratings that follow. If you have this habit, you can make it into your job by applying as a book critic.

Book critics are knowledgeable persons that give their reviews and honest assessment of any book. Their vast knowledge means that readers can rely on their judgment when making any book purchase. In essence, you’ll be tasked with telling the masses whether a book is good to read or not.

9. Editor

If you’re an avid reader, you’ll know that errors and mishaps in books are huge turnoffs. They reduce the quality of books and take away the essence of any story. That’s why we have editors who take the time to ensure any book published is well-written and published.

It’s a perfect job for book lovers as they’ll be most devoted to the cause. It requires good use of vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation, amongst other English language tools.

10. Literacy Coach

Another role where your skills in vocabulary and book knowledge can be applied is as a literacy coach. Literacy coaches are those tasked with detecting problems in student learning and cooking up new and better ways to solve those problems.

They also assist educators and school boards by bringing up new ideas that improve student curriculum and learning processes. They’re essential to schools as they make a difference in student learning.

12. Researcher

Most book readers never stop at one. Once they’re through with an author’s work, they look for more content from that author to consume. They also search for more books like the ones they love. This trait slowly develops into a proper skill in research. It’s also a skill that can bring money to the table.

As a researcher, companies rely on you to unravel new information, find out more about existing concepts, or look for ways to improve current situations. It’s a task that requires looking through old books to find new data and only book lovers can carry out that task without faltering.

12. Historian

Another job that’s perfect for book lovers is the work of a historian. This group of individuals is well-versed in all things history and ancient. They offer their knowledge and services to places like museums, art galleries, schools, universities, and so on.

They mostly work as guides for tourists in those places or research various historical topics and concepts. Historians also uncover hidden stories and share with us treasures from the past.

13. Professor

Book lovers can also work their way into becoming professors in higher institutions. It’s a step further in the teaching profession and allows you to explore more than you did in school. Professors are well-respected because they’re pivotal to the running of various institutions.

They do more than just teach classes. They carry out research, supervise student projects, make up members of the institution boards, and so on. They also study more and develop new ideas that transform the scope of their fields. And we all know it’s only a book lover that studies that much.

14. Content Creator

Content creators offer their skills and services to companies and brands looking to improve their image and popularity. They take on various roles such as creating blogs, articles, newspaper content, digital content, and many more.

They are often sought after by magazine brands, fashion brands, media houses, sporting and broadcasting companies, and all other types of media platforms.

15. Illustrator

An illustrator works together with authors and editors to deliver books with great content. Illustrators are responsible for creating visual graphics and illustrations in books that improve reading and learning experiences.

At the same time, they collaborate with authors to create new and interesting ideas that eventually make it into the final product. These graphics and illustrations are made through hand drawings, paintings, or digital designs.

Turning Your Hobby Into A Profession

The great thing about those jobs listed above is that they’re compatible with your love for books. People often spend their time working at dreaded jobs and spend the rest of their time regretting those jobs. However, turning your love for books into a profession is a better way of expressing it.

It also means you enjoy your work and based on your skills and knowledge, will be very productive. These jobs also pay well so when you look at it, it’s a win for you on all fronts.

Wrapping Up 

There’s no better job out there than one that allows you to express your love for your hobbies. If your hobby involves diving into the world of fiction and literature, then there are tons of jobs for you to choose from.

 

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Top 5 Companies with the Best Work-Life Balance https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/companies-with-best-work-life-balance/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 14:55:22 +0000 https://bsblog.wpenginepowered.com/?p=5448 companies with the best work-life balance

In a society that embraces “hustle culture” to the fullest, many of us feel overworked with little hope of respite from our demanding jobs and daily duties. Importunate bosses push us to our limits, asking us to work long outside of the usual 9 to 5 and sending work emails on our off days. Even our hobbies have been stolen from us, as guilt begins to creep in when we realize we could—even should—be monetizing our creativity.

The rat race is soul-sucking; if you’re sick of it, you’re not alone. “Companies with the best work-life balance” has been one of the most frequently trending phrases on websites like LinkedIn and Glassdoor.

Whether they intend to better the lives of their employees or don’t want to lose their share of the workforce to greener pastures, companies have taken notice.

If you, like many others, don’t want your job to consume your entire life, read on. In no particular order, these are the companies with the best work-life balance in 2023, according to employee reports.

1. Dropbox

dropbox

Employee Rating: 4.6 / 5 Employee Rating

Co-founded in 2007 by MIT students Arash Ferdowsi and Drew Houston (current CEO), Dropbox offers users a collaborative file-hosting service that is used by more than 15 million businesses and individuals. Based in San Francisco, CA, Dropbox is valued at roughly $7.5 billion.

Like many tech companies, Dropbox features fun and aesthetically pleasing offices with many perks. Despite some gripes, current and former employees report that Dropbox is one of the companies with the best work-life balance due to its healthy company culture, abundant paid time off, and flexible hours.

2. Microsoft

microsoft employees

Employee Rating: 4.5 / 5 Employee Rating

Despite being one of the biggest technological names, Microsoft works hard to ensure its employees don’t work too hard. With multiple locations worldwide, Microsoft employs more than 200,000 people with a wide salary range.

Microsoft employees report an excellent work-life balance, but there is one caveat, as aptly worded by one reviewer: “You get what you put in”. Though hours are flexible and time off is encouraged, developers may spend extra time working on projects to move up in the company.

3. IBM

ibm office

Employee Rating: 4 / 5 Employee Rating

Next on our list is the International Business Machines Corporation, better known as IBM. With over 250,000 employees, IBM is the world’s most significant technological research organization.

Though employees report different experiences depending on the location, the majority of reviewers rave about IBM being one of the companies with the best work-life balance. They note flexible hours, relaxed management, and readily approved paid time off. However, many feel the company is rather impersonal.

4. Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin Employees

Employee Rating: 4.1 / 5Employee Rating

Not to be outdone by the tech bros and their in-office slides, global security and aerospace giant Lockheed Martin is rated as one of the companies with the best work-life balance. However, if you’re a pacifist, this company may not be a great fit. As the world’s largest defense contractor, Lockheed Martin is a major arms supplier to military forces worldwide.

Current and former employees have plenty of complaints about their time at Lockheed Martin, but few have gripes about their work-life balance. Many positions require a level of clearance, so these employees can keep their personal life and work completely separate.

5. Fidelity Investments

Fidelity Investments employees

Employee Rating: 4.3 / 5Employee Rating

Though sensationalized tales like The Wolf of Wall Street have led people to believe that investment banking is a 24/7 lifestyle, Fidelity Investments proves this could not be further from the truth. Founded in 1946, Fidelity Investments handles more than $4.5 trillion of assets across its global offices.

Workaholics may spend more time in the office than others, but current and former employees report that working at Fidelity Investments is similar to a typical bank job: reasonable hours, plenty of paid time off, and a bevy of holidays off.

Bonus Answer: Be Your Own Boss

Employee Rating: That’s up to you!That’s up to you

If you’re looking to escape your demanding job and take your work-life balance into your own hands, consider being your own boss. As companies are shifting back to on-site work, employees are missing the remote lifestyle they became accustomed to during the throes of the pandemic and are taking matters into their own hands.

Though this can’t be done for every position, if you’re skilled at what you do, consider becoming a consultant and working with companies on an as-needed basis, on your own time.

Freelancing is a fantastic option if you have a marketable skill or hobby (that you don’t mind monetizing—some things are OK to keep for yourself!). This way, you aren’t working for a company. The company is your client.

Have a knack for e-commerce? The internet is your oyster.

Perhaps you have an eye for vintage clothes—why not start your own online shop and sell your valuable thrift finds? If you’re knowledgeable about antique and rare books or have a home library that needs downsizing, tools like BookScouter Pro can help you make money flipping books without risking capital by owning your own bookstore. Feel free to read our article on How to Find the Value of Old Books, which can help boost your profits when selling books.

There is only one major downside to being your own boss: if you don’t set boundaries for yourself, clients, and customers, your work-life balance will be non-existent.

This is true for any job, but it is especially the case when running your own business. To ensure you’re a good boss—even if you are your only employee—set business hours, stick to them, and give yourself ample time off.

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