The number of computer information and technology jobs in America is projected to grow by 488,500 by 2024. Business is booming - at least if you work in hi-tech, I.T. or a niche like digital marketing.
As of today, there may be no better place to build a 6-figure career. That's not a matter of opinion; $100,000 is the average annual salary in more than a few professions. If you're an above-average professional, you can expect to do much better than that.
However, not all I.T. jobs are created equal. It's important to understand the trends, statistics, and findings that will affect the industry in 2017 if you want to have a real shot at making 6 figures anytime soon.
We'll share 6 of them below - and explain how you can use the information to maximize your chances of making all the right career moves next year!
1. Have The Right Skills
Whether you're in high school, college or the professional world, it's never too early (or late) to develop a skill that's worth 6 figures.
For example, one in 20 new jobs in the U.S. is related to software development and engineering. This means programmers are in-demand. If you hone your software skills and build a portfolio, you'll maximize your income - and get your pick of the litter in choosing where to work.
That's why the order of business #1 is following the industry - and knowing which skills you should know to get the best-paying jobs in your country.
Once you're doing that, start to...
2. Seek Professional Development
Making 6 figures straight out of college can and does happen - but is predicated on chance. There's no guarantee of it even if you're outstanding in your field.
That's why you're better off betting on a company with great career development. In a business like that, you're likely to get to your income goals faster.
Glassdoor, Business Insider and many other websites will help you find the best professional development out there - and if you can't work in a company that helps you advance, you may want to consider...
3. Learning to Advance Your Career
If your workplace actively wants you to get better and get paid for it - great. However, that's often not the case... Which is why you should know how to advance in your job regardless of what your company's doing.
Fortunately, the abundance of I.T. and tech-related jobs means there's a lot of people in the same boat as you. Looking online, you'll quickly find lots of advice on moving your career forward.
Just remember - it's not all about your work-related skills. You've also got to be able to...
4. Negotiate
Did you know that as few as 1 in 3 people feel comfortable negotiating their salary terms? This is unfortunate because being able to negotiate gives you a massive advantage over people who aren't.
The great news is that with most people lacking this important skill, even a little effort and knowledge will get you far. There's plenty of information on negotiating out there, and some of it's written with techies in mind.
All you have to do is...
5. Be a Good Expert
As the old adage goes, "the cream always rises to the top". People who work had, enjoy their profession and do a great job always seem to get ahead. They might fall