Changing Job Environment- 10 Best Jobs For The Recession And After- Part II
Accountant
May not be a glamorous option but this job definitely ranks high in terms of job security, pay and mobility. Also this is one skill set which is growing in demand as can be seen from data. Between March and April 2009 around 3500 new accounting jobs were created. The demand for accountants is estimated to increase by 15% annually over the next decade. Also the current demographics are bound to increase demand for accountants. As per estimates around 75% of current practitioners are expected to retire by 2020. Hence job opportunities are abundant in this line.
The growth potential is also quite good in this field. One can start off as an accountant and climb up the management ladder. Also with an accounting background you can open a small consultancy or do contract work from home. Also this job segment is extremely mobile and accountants can move to any industry or region where there is demand.
People who don’t have educational qualification to become an accountant can be trained in one or two years at a community college. The average salary in this field is well above the average with a starting salary of $45,000 though salary may vary by state and experience. After 10 years of experience one can easily looking at doubling this salary.
Entrepreneur
If you are a family man with a family to support or may be a mortgage to pay then this may not be the right option for you given that starting a business is risky and takes lots of energy. However for someone who is at a midlife stage with the biggest expenses like mortgage and tuition over then starting a small business is the best thing to do now. Surveys show that at the end of their working life workers are not necessarily looking for high wages or benefit. They value a lot the ability to control their working style and hours. Self employment hence is perfect for them.
An interesting start would be to just move away or scale down from your primary career and turn your hobby into a small business like say opening a photo studio, art gallery or restoring old cars. Recent surveys show that approximately 27% of workers in the age group above 50 change their career and take a pay cut or give up pension and health-care benefits to do so. And a huge 91% of these people are happy with their decision and say that they are now enjoying their work and have less stress.
The current Obama administration is also keen to provide funding support to new businesses. So you need not withdraw your 401(k) or extract your home equity to fund your new business. You can get an attractive loan through the Small Business Association (SBA) which can help you find a micro-loan or even a grant. If you need more advice on how to write a business plan and get started please contact the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) which is a volunteer organization of retired business people.
Read more at: Changing Job Environment- 10 Best Jobs For The Recession And After- Part I
