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Sep 26th 2022

Associate vs. Assistant Level Positions: Differences & Examples

Created by CakeIn this article, you'll read about: Differences Between Associate vs. Assistant Job TitlesWhat Is an Associate-level Position?What Is an Assistant-level Position?Which is Higher in Hierarchy? – Assistant vs. Associate PositionIn a professional work setting, the associate vs. assistant job titles are often used interchangeably. While the similarities between the associate vs. assistant positions are numerous, several differences separate them. Whether it be a difference in the job description, experience, or salary, understanding the difference between an associate vs. an assistant is an important step in determining whether or not the job is the right fit for you. What exactly does the job title “associate” mean? Is an associate’s position better than an assistant’s? All these questions and more will be answered here!Differences Between Associate vs. Assistant Job TitlesWhen it comes to the roles and responsibilities of an associate vs. an assistant, an associate’s tasks are generally team-based, whereas an assistant will act as logistical/technical support to others within a business. While this may vary depending on the profession, the general differences between associate vs assistant job titles can be categorized into the following sections: Experience Depending on the profession, associate vs assistant experience requirements can vary significantly. In many cases, an associate-level position is entry-level, meaning that experience is not required. Given the nature of this junior position, an associate will receive on-the-job training and experience. An assistant, on the other hand, may require some working experience to be qualified for the position. In specific cases such as research, management, and some administrative assistant roles, an assistant may be required to have several years of experience in a related field. However, less technically complex job cases, such as a sales assistant, require little to no experience to be qualified for a job. Salary range Financial compensation depends heavily on the field of work. However, in the comparison between an associate vs an assistant, associates will generally earn a higher salary given their field-focused educational experience and qualifications that they need to have to obtain the job. Assistants, on the other hand, earn less given the fact that their position requires less educational experience. Take an accounting associate vs an accounting assistant, for example. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for an accounting associate in the United States is around US$49,213. This number is reflective of educational level, company position, and potential experience. The national average salary for an accounting assistant is US$40,418. Given the difference in financial compensation, it is clear that choosing correctly between an associate position vs. an assistant position will yield striking results. Education level Associates require education (in many cases, at least a bachelor’s degree) that is focused on the field they are working in. On the other hand, assistants, in many cases, may simply need a broad base of administrative and logistical skills and can even land a job without a relevant degree. In some cases, however, assistants need to have technical knowledge of the field they work in. Comparing a marketing associate vs. a marketing assistant, the former will be required to have a bachelor’s degree in marketing or business, or undergo more specialized training in marketing, and (preferably) have experience. A marketing assistant may only be required to have office training or undergo a marketing internship or other form of marketing-related experience. Work responsibilities Understanding the work responsibilities of an associate vs. an assistant will greatly influence the position you choose to pursue. The work responsibilities of an associate vs. an assistant can be distinct. Generally, the work responsibilities of an associate revolve around the execution of team-based tasks daily to meet client needs. In many cases, the work responsibilities of an assistant are completely different. Instead of working towards client needs, an assistant works towards the needs of other employees, particularly in assisting the administration of a company in arranging meetings, travel plans, office tasks, and, in some cases, supervising associates in completing a task. For example, an administrative associate vs. an administrative assistant have entirely different work responsibilities. Administrative associates are responsible for clerical duties related to the upkeep of office goals and regulations, managing budgets and expenses, and other general office administration tasks. An administrative assistant deals with strictly secretarial obligations, including organizing schedules, meetings, travel plans, and other office-based work. What Is an Associate-level Position?So, what exactly is the definition of an associate? While this answer varies depending on the field, an associate is generally defined as a junior professional position in a company. An associate’s responsibilities are also typically specific to a project or task, and work is completed with the assistance of other junior associates under the supervision of a more seasoned, or senior, associate. For more information on what the meaning of an associate-level position is, here are a few examples of the job title and responsibilities of associate-level positions: Examples of Associate Positions: Research Associate: A research associate is responsible for the planning and conducting of research, along with the management of results and data.Associate Manager: The example of an associate manager presents an interesting case where it is lower in the hierarchy compared to an assistant manager. Associate managers are responsible for the management of smaller teams in a company, as opposed to a more senior position responsible for the management of the company itself.Office Associate: An office associate works on clerical tasks and has primarily office-based responsibilities. An office associate works under an office manager and meets goals set by the manager.Associate Writer: Associate writers are primarily responsible for writing material for the company/business. Material may include news articles, magazines, and editorials, among others. Writers are generally required to possess a relevant bachelor’s degree and hold some level of experience which can be evidenced through a portfolio of past work.Associate Director: An associate Director acts as a project manager who reports to more senior management. By maintaining project efficiency and workplace standards, an associate director helps maintain organizational effectiveness.What Is an Assistant-level Position?The definition of an assistant can vary highly depending on the field of work. While an associate is typically ranked higher versus an assistant in many fields of work, this is not always the case. For an in-depth look at assistant positions and their responsibilities, here are some examples:Examples of Assistant Positions:Assistant Manager: An assistant manager is an example of an assistant position ranking higher versus an associate position. An assistant manager works with senior management to ensure the operational efficiency of a business or company. Assistant managers have more responsibilities than their associate counterparts, and the requirements to get the job are reflective of this.Sales Assistant: The sales assistant position requires employees to communicate and directly assist customers on the sales floor. Sales assistants generally do not require specific education, but strong interpersonal communication skills are a plus.Assistant Writer: Assistant writers provide help to more senior writers in compiling written works such as articles, editorials, and scripts. Assistant writers are typically required to have at least a bachelor's degree and strong writing skills.Executive Assistant: Similar to a personal assistant, an executive assistant aids their employer in organizing their meetings and travel arrangements, returning emails and phone calls, amongst others. Executive assistants, depending on the job, may also be required to handle confidential paperwork.Product Assistant: Product assistants work with marketing to help produce plans to raise product sales and product launches. Product assistants generally work towards helping company products meet pre-described goals or profit margins. Which is Higher in Hierarchy? – Assistant vs. Associate PositionHere are some popular fields to show how an associate vs. an assistant level position is hierarchically ranked.General jobsAs a rule of thumb, an associate-level position is typically a higher hierarchical position versus that of an assistant. An associate is generally required to have an area-relevant degree and prove their capabilities in performing tasks related to their line of work. Assistants, on the other hand, generally perform clerical and office duties, and expertise in area-relevant work is not generally required. Academia In the realm of academia, the roles and responsibilities of an associate and an assistant become blurry. Both positions require teaching, conducting research, and a high-level degree (usually a Ph.D.). To illustrate this point, here is a short comparison between an assistant professor vs. an associate professor: Assistant Professor: Experience requirement: No experience required (entry-level)Salary range: US$80,987Education level: Ph.D. requiredJob responsibilities: Teach undergraduate programs, conduct research, and publish papers/articles Associate Professor: Experience requirement: 5-7 years of experience requiredSalary range: US$91,424Education level: Ph.D. required, plus years of tenure as an assistant professorJob responsibilities: Develop lesson plans for university courses, conduct research, and act as student advisors BusinessAn assistant’s responsibilities, on the other hand, center around assisting (junior and senior) associates and administration through a variety of tasks including travel and meeting plan management, administrative office work, and other office-based tasks. More senior assistants may be tasked with the supervision of junior associates and help organize and expedite workflow within the office. In the field of business, the role of an associate vs that of an assistant is more clear-cut. Being an associate in a business setting means that you are considered a junior professional in the business field whose main tasks revolve around working towards meeting company objectives and goals. Associates in the business and corporate fields often work in partnership with other junior associates and act as liaisons between the company and its clients. LawA legal associate is a junior full-time position within a law firm. Legal associates practice law in the firm and are responsible for legal research, cases with clients, developing litigation strategies, and representing their clients in court. Legal associates must possess at least a bachelor's degree, attend law school, and pass the bar exam to practice law. Similar to business, associates and assistants in the legal profession require completely different skill sets. Legal assistants, or paralegals, support lawyers in preparing for cases, trials, and hearings. Legal assistants are also tasked with the management and organization of documents and other materials that are collected during a case. Legal assistants are almost always required to have at least an associate's degree in paralegal studies or a similar field. Publishing Publishing associates vs publishing assistants present a case of contrasting job responsibilities. On the one hand, publishing associates are in charge of the administrative aspects of the publishing process and oftentimes act as liaisons between the publication administration and the writers in the company. Other responsibilities can include the management of the publication process per company policy. Publication associates are generally sought out for their knowledge of written works, such as magazines, articles, or editorials. On the other hand, a publishing assistant works on administrative duties and may also be tasked with the preparation of work for publication and the proofreading of work before publication approval. Publishing assistants may also perform office-based tasks, including computer tasks, schedule management, and financial account management.🔑 Key Takeaways Although comparing an associate position vs. an assistant position seems trivial, the differences in salary, required experience and education level, and work responsibilities make it necessary to determine which position is the best suited to you. Remember these points when considering an associate vs. an assistant position: Associate-level positions are typically the first field-relevant job in a company or organization. Associates typically require field-specific degrees and possess the necessary skills and qualifications to operate in a particular field of work.Assistants generally perform supporting roles through secretarial duties. Assistants may also work directly with management to ensure company efficiency and smooth operation. At the end of the day, the general definition of an associate and an assistant is fluid and can only serve as a guide. Differences between the associate vs. assistant job titles mean that field-relevant research must be conducted to ascertain the exact demands of an associate vs. an assistant-level job. With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create resume--- Originally written by Alexander Coye---

The 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore You Need to Know in 2024

10 Highest Paying Jobs in Singapore You Need to Know in 2024 Singapore's economic landscape is characterized by stability, innovation, and rapid growth. It has established itself as a global financial and technological hub, attracting multinational corporations due to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly policies. The job market in Singapore is highly diverse, spanning industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and engineering, to name a few. The highest-paying jobs in Singapore are not just financially rewarding but also drive the nation's competitiveness and growth. These professions attract top talent, fueling innovation and excellence across sectors. Are you looking to make the move to one of the world's most innovative social and technological hubs? This article will explore high-paying jobs in Singapore and the factors contributing to their attractive salaries. Whether you are a job seeker, career planner, or simply interested in Singapore's economic dynamics, this article gives insights into high-paying jobs shaping the market.TABLE OFCONTENTSEmerging Trends in the Singapore Job MarketTop 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in SingaporeGuide to Prepare for a High-Paying JobConclusion Emerging Trends in the Singapore Job Market In the evolution of the modern workplace, advancements in technology and changes in global trends heavily influence the types of high-demand jobs that exist. Like all countries which base their workforce on the latest trends and innovations, the highest-paying jobs in Singapore have been created through the rising prominence of critical job sectors. In this section, we will cover some of the sectors that the highest-paying jobs in Singapore are a part of. Technological Advancements Technological advancements are the driving force of our modern world. Professionals in high-paying technology-based roles in Singapore contribute to the development of cutting-edge technical and mechanical innovations, propelling humanity to new heights! Automation and AI The advent and popularization of AI and the automation of processes have brought many high-paying jobs to Singapore. The nation’s focus on becoming a regional and global hub for innovation in the artificial intelligence space has spelt great opportunities for professionals looking to take the move to the city-state. Technology-Driven Industries Through the digitalization of trade and financial services, the development of infrastructure and technology to support the growing fintech industry and digital trade mechanisms have never been as important as they are today. Some of the highest-paying jobs in Singapore are positioned to take advantage of this trend and propel the country to the forefront of fintech and digital trade technology. Digital Literacy Singapore lacks the geographical resources that other countries enjoy but makes up for it through its focus on developing the intellectual literacy of its population. As the world goes digital, investment in digital literacy and its focus on the development of technology-driven industries has brought many high-paying jobs to Singapore. Sustainability and Green Jobs Climate change and mounting environmental challenges have centered on the importance of transitioning to greener and more sustainable infrastructure and technology to support humanity’s development. Many high-paying jobs in Singapore capitalize on this trend by focusing their work on the development of newer and greener technology to assist in this trend to carbon net zero. Growth Sectors The companies that offer the highest paying jobs in Singapore are always looking for promising emerging markets and sectors to branch investment into. Many of the best-paying jobs in Singapore are those that have early and astute market engagement.Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in Singapore Moving forward, we will now go deeper into the specific roles that the high-paying jobs in Singapore can assume. This section will not only brief you on the best jobs in Singapore but will also let you know how much you can stand to earn and the exact responsibilities that each position can come with. 1. Medical Specialists The medical field is wide and the precise responsibilities of each professional reflect this scope. That said, those working in medicine enjoy one of the highest-paying jobs in Singapore. Medical specialists typically undergo post-medical degree specializations and are consequently much more qualified in their field. The highest-paying jobs in medicine in Singapore are generally surgeons in the neurosurgical and cardiology fields, the average annual salary being in the range of S$148,065 to S$388,564. 📚Further reading: Medical Technologist Resume: Examples, Templates Top Tips 2. Investment Bankers The financial market and investment banker profession yield one of the highest paying jobs in Singapore. While public sector positions are also competitive, the highest-paying finance jobs in Singapore are found in the private sector. The responsibilities of a private investment banker, depending on the level, can range from maintaining client relationships and providing consultation services to overseeing the activities and transactions made by well-endowed clients and companies. The average annual salary for investment bankers in Singapore can range between S$320,000 to S$415,000. 📚Further reading: Personal Banker Resume: Templates, Examples Essential Skills 3. Legal Professionals The legal professions are almost universally well-paid throughout the world. Similarly, some of the best jobs in Singapore are found in the legal professions and services. The responsibilities of positions within this field range from arbitration and litigation to private consulting and legal document drafting. Legal professionals in Singapore are well-respected and their services are in a perpetual state of demand! If you are a professional in the legal field, you can expect a salary within the range of S106,000 to S$200,000. 📚Further reading: Best Legal Resume Examples | Resume Summary Template 4. Chief Technology Officer The C-suite of positions within any company is notorious for being very well paid. While many of the best-paid jobs in Singapore are within the C-suite positions, Chief Technology Officers are especially well-compensated. Singapore’s focus on technological developments and innovation means that experienced professionals to manage and oversee processes are crucial. CTOs create, implement, and guide the execution of technology strategies that companies employ in their day-to-day operations. Average CTO annual salaries vary widely, and can typically fall within the S$250,000 to S$350,000 📚Further reading: CTO Resume Must-Know [+ Examples Templates] 5. Engineering Managers Another of the best-paid jobs in Singapore is the Engineering Manager. These professionals are tasked with overseeing, managing, and implementing a company’s engineering department. Engineering managers set and manage deadlines and handle typical project management tasks to ensure operations run smoothly. Typically, as with most of the high-paying jobs in Singapore, Engineering Managers can expect an annual salary exceeding S$100,000, typically within the range of S$150,000 and S$212,000. 📚Further reading: Computer Engineering Resume (with Sample) 6. Aviation Professionals The national Singaporean airline, Singapore Airlines, is one of the best in the world. Singapore's aviation industry is booming, and aviation professionals in the city-state are well compensated for their work. Most commonly, the best-paying aviation jobs in Singapore are pilot positions, with annual salaries going as high as S$200,000 📚Further reading: Cabin Crew Resume (w/ Examples and Tips) 7. Management Consultants Management consultants are tasked with aiding organizations and companies in managing challenges in growth, development, and business performance. Management consultants play an integral part in ensuring the day-to-day operations of many businesses and are crucial in ensuring that the short and long-term goals of a company are met. Management consultants are highly valued in Singapore, as the city-state houses offices of many of the world's largest organizations and financial institutions. Some of the highest-paying management consultants jobs in Singapore can earn upwards of S$250,000. 📚Further reading: Successful Management Consultant Resume [w/ Examples Tips] 8. IT Cyber Security Manager In a country that prioritizes technology innovation and development, IT cybersecurity managers are amongst the highest-paying IT jobs in Singapore. Cybersecurity managers are responsible for ensuring that a company’s digital data, assets and digital intellectual property are protected against malicious cyber-attacks and that the security of the company’s digital presence is robust. As thousands of cyber hacks occur daily, cybersecurity managers are a required part of any medium to large-scale company. Cybersecurity specialists are one of the highest-paying IT jobs in Singapore, with an average annual salary of S$101,640 to S$245,640. 📚Further reading: Cyber Security Resume (Examples and Templates) 9. DevOps Development and Operations professionals (DevOps) are at the center of any technology/IT company. DevOps are tasked with building out, testing, and maintaining the digital infrastructure of a company. They are usually also responsible for developing new and more efficient software that can support their company’s continued growth and expansion. As one of the most critical positions in a company and the highest-paying IT jobs in Singapore, DevOps enjoy a substantial compensation package, with an annual salary range of S$130,000 to S$200,000. 📚Further reading: DevOps Engineer Resume: Example Guide 10. Marketing Directors Marketing directors have a wide range of responsibilities, including developing marketing budgets, designing and executing marketing campaigns and strategies, and conducting market research to identify areas of entry and competition, to name a few. The position is intensive and relies heavily on prior education and experience. That said, the position is highly rewarding as the marketing director position is one of the highest-paying jobs in Singapore. The average marketing director can expect a compensation package with an annual salary of around S$270,000. 📚Further reading: Marketing Director Resume Guide with Examples Guide to Prepare for a High-Paying Job Preparing for a high-paying job in Singapore means conducting significant market research to identify emerging trends and demands for jobs. The best-paid jobs in Singapore and the world are those that are geared to solve future problems and are difficult to replace or automate. For example, with the rise of AI development and Singapore’s vocal commitment to be a trailblazer in AI with Asia and ASEAN, a career in AI development is just one of the many promising career prospects you can consider when aiming for high-paying jobs in Singapore. Here are some tips that can help you fully prepare for applying for a high-paying job in Singapore! Tip 1: The crucial role of education Singapore has one of the best education systems in the world, with a literacy rate of over 97% in 2021 and with over 40% of the population possessing a university degree or higher. This means that education and being highly educated will be a pivotal part of securing a high-paying job in Singapore. Conduct thorough market research well before making a move, and ensure your educational qualifications stand out against the domestic competition! 📚Further reading: A Complete Guide to Working in Singapore as a Foreigner | 2024 Guide Tip 2: Elevate your career with certifications Advanced training and certifications are a great way to give yourself an edge against your competition in the job application process. High-paying jobs in Singapore look for more than just a degree; supplemental experience, certifications, and more specialized degrees will make a much more compelling and attractive job application package. Remember that many of the world’s best and brightest aim for careers in Singapore, so competition will be fierce! Tip 3: Skill development for professional growth One of the best (and cheapest) ways to invest in your professional and self-development is through online workshops, seminars, and courses. There are a plethora of online education platforms for professionals seeking to deepen their technical knowledge and skill sets. Courses offered span multiple disciplines and professions, and teach everything from legal studies and AI development to Microsoft Office skills and accounting! Tip 4: The power of networking and internships Internships are a great way for students and recent graduates to build work experience without the pressure of being fully in the job market. Networking is a skill that either comes naturally or with lots of practice! That said, it is an invaluable skill to have and opens doors at every level of experience! Whether it be attending professional networking events and mixers, or connecting online through professional services such as Cake, networking is a skill best learned early on. 💡Pro tip: For college students, check out this article on why networking is a key to early success in university. Tip 5: Staying updated with industry changes The importance of staying up-to-date with industry trends and changes to remain competitive in high-paying fields cannot be understated. The best jobs in Singapore and the world capitalize on these trends to offer lucrative positions for up-and-coming professionals who have the technical qualifications for the job. Make sure you are ahead of the market curve by conducting your due research before deciding on your college major and/or specialization! you may save lots of time and money further down the line!Conclusion Singapore's busy and thriving job market has spelled great success for many professionals who have made the move to the small city-state. The best jobs in Singapore are those that are future-proofed against automation and include positions in the medical, legal, engineering, and technology fields. If you're a professional looking to take the next leap in your career and experience a vibrant work culture, consider Singapore as the next step in the right direction! Our platform at Cake is a great resource for all your career development and resume-building needs. Our expansive list of articles takes a close look into every step of the job application process, both in Taiwan and internationally! Our job-seeking platform also advertises lucrative jobs that you can apply to easily today! Check us out and take the right step in your professional career! Cake is afree resume makerandportfolio builderthat provides hundreds ofresume templates (free download)and variousjob resume examplesto help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume — Originally Written by Alex Coye —

How to Become a Journalist: Step-by-step Guide & Career Advice

Created by CakeResumeIn this article, we'll cover: What does a journalist do?How to become a journalistTips for becoming a journalist with and without a degreeFAQs about being a journalistThe news plays a significant role in the lives of people. It informs, educates, entertains and guides the audience. Because of the news, we can make the best possible decisions about all aspects of our lives. Becoming a journalist means that you are committed to finding the truth and helping others to be well-informed of what has been happening in the world we live in. It’s a great yet rewarding responsibility. Consider getting into journalism? The very first thing is to decide on your journalism career path among 9 different types as shown below: Broadcast journalismBusiness journalismEntertainment journalismInvestigative journalismOpinion journalismPhotojournalismPolitical journalismSports journalismWatchdog journalism Next, let's go over this article to learn more about journalist qualifications and skills, as well as which degree is required to become a journalist. What does a journalist do?In short, journalists create new stories. Generally speaking, there're many opportunities within the journalist career. You can work for different areas of media such as newspapers, magazines, television, or radio.The duties and responsibilities of a journalist may involve:Researching to uncover interesting and significant newsGathering and interpreting data for relevant news storiesConducting interviews to collect more informationEditing and revising articles on requestAttending and reporting events to the publicVerifying statements and factsStaying up-to-date with privacy, contempt, and defamation lawCoordinating with editors, designers, and photographers to complete the work How to become a journalistIt's no doubt that becoming a journalist is not easy, whether you are seeking a full-time job at a publication or want to pursue a freelance journalism career. Below are the 5 steps to help improve your chances of landing an entry-level journalist position. 🖋 Start early Regardless of the medium you decide to work in, it's important to start off with a passion for writing and strong writing skills early. Besides reading a lot of books, you can develop and master these skills from courses in English, language arts, humanities, and social studies. Free writing is helpful as well. You could get into the habit of writing about your daily activities in your diary, or volunteer to work for your school's TV or radio station. These practices can help build a solid foundation for your journalism career path at the early stage. 🖋 Earn a degree Meeting journalism education requirements is the next critical step to take if you are wondering how to become a journalist after the 12th grade. Typically, journalism positions require a bachelor's degree in English, communications or journalism. Taking courses in editing, journalistic ethics, reporting, feature writing, and communications allow you to develop research and writing skills for different media outlets. Depending on your specialization, you can have a chance to dig deeper into broadcast, print, photojournalism, or public relations. For those focusing on print or broadcast journalism, you may want to do additional coursework like graphic design, web development, and video production. 🖋 Build a professional portfolio Whether you are wondering how to become a freelance journalist or seeking a full-time position, it’s highly recommended you have a professional portfolio to showcase your work. Think about it as an effective tool to demonstrate your journalist qualifications and writing skills - not to mention, promote your personal branding. As such, it should include the following elements: A brief introduction about yourself which emphasizes your passion for writing and enthusiasm for being a journalistSamples of your work that don't need to be paid piecesOnline presence (LinkedIn, Facebook, personal website)Contact information 🖋 Create a strong resume While a portfolio showcases your proudest with graphs and/or writing samples, a CV/resume summarizes your skills and experience in the text. Almost all media companies will ask you to submit a resume in the first place to see whether you meet their basic journalist requirements. Make sure your journalism resume follows a well-arranged, easy-to-read format and include the following information: Contact detailsProfile summaryEducationWork experienceSkillsOthers: languages, certificates, awards, projects, etc.For reference, check our our journalist resume example here and find out the best skills to make your resume stand out. 🖋 Acquire relevant experience Here comes the most critical factor determining whether you can land your dream job - journalism experience. So, where and how to find relevant internships or job opportunities: Job postings: You can easily seek career opportunities for getting into journalism on the best job search websites like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, LinkedIn, Monster, Glassdoor, etc. Don't forget to read the job description carefully and tailor your resume to the specific position. Therefore, recruiters can see that you match their journalist requirements and offer you the interview. Networking: As an important facet of professional life, networking is more than simply making new friends, but helping you cultivate quality relationships and lead to a job referral. Effective networking can be rewarding, and yet requires courage, motivation, and especially strategy.Further reading: 10 Pro Tips to Become a Networking Expert Freelance opportunities: Besides full-time employment, you can also look to gain journalism experience from volunteer work, freelance jobs, or personal projects. These will especially help land a journalist job without a degree.Below are the 8 best freelance writing sites:UpWorkLinkedInFreelance Writing JobsFreelance Writing GigsContentlyFreedom With WritingContenaGovernment Bids Tips for becoming a journalist with and without a degreeRegardless of whether you meet the journalism education requirements as specified in the job posting, these are the winning tips for being a great journalist. 💡 Decide a specialization. To get into journalism, you need to be passionate about writing, have strong critical thinking skills, and know how to express your thoughts clearly. But it’s not easy to write about everything. Choose a journalism career path as a general news reporter or a journalist with a focus on specific topics to develop your skills and knowledge more effectively: Local newsSportsGlobal eventsPoliticsSportsWeatherReal estateLifestyleInvestigation 💡 Become an expert in your chosen field. In fact, it's highly recommended you cover one or just a few subjects that are best suited to your interests, knowledge, and skills. By becoming an expert in your chosen field, you can deliver insightful, engaging pieces, and thus be offered opportunities for career advancement. How to become a broadcast journalist If you want to get into journalism as a broadcast reporter, make sure you've done a degree in journalism or communications. A postgraduate qualification in broadcast journalism or interactive media is also preferred for your career advancement. To be a broadcast journalist, you need to get familiar with different people from various cultural, economic, and religious backgrounds. This way, you can become knowledgeable in different cultural and social practices, as well as understand people in a global context. How to become an investigative journalist Investigative journalism requires you to research and report a single topic deeply. A major in communication, mass media, journalism, English, political science, or international relations is helpful for those who want to become an investigative journalist. How to become a sports journalist As a thrilling yet competitive job prospect, sports journalism takes more than just a passion for sports to stay in the industry. Besides great writing skills and quality journalism experience, you need to have great observation skills, an eye for accuracy, and the willingness to frequent travel. How to become a travel journalist The top travel journalist qualifications include a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or travel and tourism. However, more and more freelancers are paid to be travel writers and sell their stories nowadays. What you need to have is excellent writing and photography skills, the ability to travel abroad, and in-depth knowledge of that place in terms of geography, history, culture, etc. How to become a music journalist A bachelor's degree in journalism or a music-related field is considered the minimum journalist education for this job. However, freelance writers with solid reporting skills, a keen interest in music, and thorough knowledge of music genres can also become successful music journalists. 💡 Knowing what skills you need to be a journalist. In addition to writing and reporting skills, here are 10 essential skills and qualities you'll need for your journalist career: Research skillsStory-telling skillsInterpersonal skillsActive listenerStrong ethicsSocial media savvyAttention to detailCuriosityOpen-mindednessTime management 💡 Sharpen your journalism skills on a daily basis. Whether you just start out in journalism or have secured a job, check out the advice below to improve your skills as a journalists day by day: Watch news channels for better exposureRead books and newspapers every dayFollow industry experts on social media, especially LinkedInTake online classes if relevant to your specialization orKeep your professional portfolio up-to-dateWrite for school newspapersKeep your own blogTry journalism internshipFAQs about being a journalist1. How long does it take to become a journalist? Normally, it takes 3-4 years to complete a degree in journalism or in a related field with a major in journalism, followed by a 6-month or one-year internship. During that time, you will receive instruction and gain experience in practical journalism under the supervision of senior journalists. 2. Do I need a license to work as a journalist? This depends on where in the world you're based. In some countries having “freedom of speech and press”, it is not mandatory to obtain a license to pursue a journalism career. Nevertheless, you may need a specific license or certificate to achieve higher positions such as publisher, editor, or columnist. 3. How much do journalists make? Once again, the answer lies in the country - not to mention, journalism experience, skills, employer, and more. In general, journalism is considered a not-high-paid profession, at least not in the beginning despite long working hours and a lot of pressure. Check out the following stats for more details:Journalist Salary in IndiaJournalist Salary in the U.S.Journalist Salary in the U.KJournalist Salary in Indonesia 4. What are the benefits of being a journalist? Getting into journalism allows you to travel and work in many different locations, meet many new people and hear about their stories, and especially learn how to get out of your comfort zone. You also have a chance to be among the first people to know when a big news story is about to break. These make your journalism career never get boring. 5. What are the challenges of being a journalist? Despite many benefits, a notoriously fast-paced field like journalism definitely has its fair share of challenges. These include: Long, unusual hours - particularly for the newbies who are tasked with less-desirable assignments.High competition for a steady journalist job in a high-profile companyA constantly-shifting media landscape, requiring you to consistently learn about new technologies and new writing techniques.Take Your First Step to Becoming a JournalistCake is your all-in-one career solution. Use our online resume builder for an ATS-friendly resume, complete with hundreds of free, professional resume templates and examples. Optimize your application instantly with Cake AI Resume Checker and generate a compelling cover letter with Cake Cover letter AI.Beyond documents, Cake helps you grow: build an online portfolio, find opportunities on our job portal, and establish your personal brand.Ready to simplify your job search and make success a piece of cake? Start using Cake now! --- Originally written by May Luong ---
Industry & Job Overview
Jun 13th 2024

Is Semiconductor a Good Career? (w/ 20+ Semiconductor Jobs)

Is Semiconductor a Good Career?Are you considering a career in the semiconductor industry? As the backbone of modern technology, semiconductors are integral to everything from smartphones and computers to advanced medical devices and renewable energy systems. This booming field offers a wide range of career opportunities, from engineering and manufacturing to research and development. In this article, we'll explore whether a career in semiconductors is a good choice and highlight 24 exciting job roles within the industry. Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional looking to switch fields, the semiconductor industry could be your gateway to rewarding career paths.Table of ContentsWhat Are Semiconductors?Semiconductor Industry OverviewBenefits of a Career in SemiconductorsSkills Required for a Semiconductor Career26 Types of Semiconductor JobsLeading Companies in the Semiconductor Industry in Taiwan (Top Employers)FAQs for Pursuing a Career in SemiconductorsConclusion What Are Semiconductors?Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. They are the foundation of modern electronics, enabling the functioning of devices like semiconductor chips in smartphones, computers, and solar cells. Semiconductors control the flow of electrical currents in electronic devices, making them essential for the development and operation of a wide range of technologies that shape our everyday lives.📚Further reading: Everything About Chip on Wafer on Substrate (CoWoS) Packaging Technology Semiconductor Industry OverviewTaiwan is a global leader in the semiconductors industry, crucial to the supply chain and tech advancements. It hosts top semiconductor companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC). TSMC, known for its advanced manufacturing, dominates the global semiconductor market. Taiwan's industry thrives on innovation and heavy investment in research and development. This strategic focus keeps Taiwan at the forefront, driving global trends and meeting the growing demand for advanced electronics. Taiwan's semiconductor expertise is vital to the worldwide tech sector, highlighting its key role in modern technology.Why Careers in Semiconductor Manufacturing Industry Semiconductor Jobs Are in High Demand The demand for semiconductor professionals is skyrocketing due to rapid technological advancements. As industries like AI, 5G, and renewable energy expand, the need for skilled semiconductor experts continues to grow. Considering semiconductor as a career can open doors to some of the best-paying jobs in the tech industry, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Semiconductor Jobs Have Lucrative Salaries The semiconductor industry offers competitive salaries and attractive benefits packages. Professionals in semiconductor careers often enjoy high earning potential, reflecting the value and complexity of the semiconductor field. Semiconductor Jobs Have Good Career Growth A career in semiconductors provides ample job opportunities for advancement and specialization. Whether you’re interested in design, manufacturing, or research, there are various career paths to develop your expertise and move up the career ladder. Semiconductor Jobs Inspire Innovation and Impact Working in the semiconductor industry means being at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies. You’ll contribute to significant advancements that shape the future of electronics and technology, making a tangible impact on the world.Skills Required for a Semiconductor CareerTechnical Skills Electronics Knowledge Fundamentals: A deep understanding of electronic principles is essential, including how electronic components like transistors, capacitors, and diodes function.Circuit Design: Proficiency in designing and analyzing circuits is crucial, as this forms the backbone of semiconductor technology. Semiconductor Physics Material Science: Knowledge of semiconductor materials (such as silicon, gallium arsenide, and newer materials like graphene) and their properties.Device Physics: Understanding how semiconductor devices like MOSFETs and BJTs operate at a physical level. Software Proficiency Design Tools: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., Cadence, Mentor Graphics) for designing semiconductor layouts.Simulation Tools: Proficiency in using simulation software (e.g., SPICE) to model and predict the behavior of semiconductor devices.Programming: Basic coding skills (e.g., Python, C++) for automating tasks and analyzing data. Soft SkillsProblem-Solving Critical Thinking: Ability to approach complex problems methodically and devise innovative solutions.Troubleshooting: Skills in diagnosing issues in semiconductor devices and manufacturing processes. Analytical Thinking Data Analysis: Expertise in analyzing experimental and production data to optimize performance and yield.Attention to Detail: Precision in observing minute details that could impact semiconductor performance. Teamwork Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, designers, and researchers.Communication: Strong communication skills to convey technical information clearly to colleagues and stakeholders.Project Management: Organizational skills to manage and coordinate complex projects, ensuring they stay on track and within budget. Educational BackgroundRelevant Degrees Electrical Engineering: Focuses on the principles of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.Computer Science: Covers software development, algorithms, and computational theory, which are essential for developing semiconductor applications.Physics: Provides a fundamental understanding of the physical principles underlying semiconductor technology.Materials Science: Studies the properties of materials, which is crucial for developing new semiconductor materials. Advanced Degrees Master’s Degrees and Ph.D. Programs: Specializing in areas such as microelectronics, nanotechnology, or semiconductor manufacturing can lead to advanced career opportunities and research positions. 26 Types of Semiconductor JobsDesign and Development Sector Semiconductor Design Engineer Responsibilities: Designing semiconductor components and integrated circuits, ensuring they meet performance specifications.Skills Required: Proficiency in CAD tools, strong understanding of circuit design, and problem-solving skills.Career Path: Opportunities to advance to senior design roles, project management, or technical leadership positions. Process Engineer Responsibilities: Developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for semiconductor production.Skills Required: Knowledge of semiconductor physics, materials science, and process engineering techniques.Career Path: Potential to move into senior engineering roles, process development leadership, or operational management. RD Engineer Responsibilities: Researching to develop new semiconductor technologies and improve existing ones.Skills Required: Strong analytical skills, proficiency in simulation tools, and a background in materials science or electrical engineering.Career Path: Advancement to senior RD positions, research leadership, or specialized technical roles. Verification Engineer Responsibilities: Ensuring that semiconductor designs meet specifications and function correctly through testing and verification processes.Skills Required: Knowledge of verification methodologies, proficiency in simulation tools, and analytical skills.Career Path: Advancement to senior verification roles, design verification management, or technical leadership. Analog Design Engineer Responsibilities: Designing and developing analog circuits and systems within semiconductor devices.Skills Required: Expertise in analog circuit design, proficiency in simulation tools, and problem-solving skills.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior design roles, technical leadership, or project management. Digital Design Engineer Responsibilities: Creating digital circuits and systems, including processors and memory components.Skills Required: Knowledge of digital design principles, proficiency in HDL (Hardware Description Languages), and analytical thinking.Career Path: Advancement to senior digital design roles, technical leadership, or project management. Manufacturing and Production SectorFabrication Technician Responsibilities: Operating equipment and machinery used in semiconductor fabrication, maintaining cleanroom standards.Skills Required: Technical skills in equipment operation, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.Career Path: Opportunities to advance to senior technician roles, supervisory positions, or transition into process engineering. Production Engineer Responsibilities: Overseeing the semiconductor manufacturing process, ensuring efficient and high-quality production.Skills Required: Knowledge of manufacturing processes, problem-solving abilities, and experience with production management software.Career Path: Potential to move into production management, quality control leadership, or operational strategy roles. Quality Control Specialist Responsibilities: Inspecting semiconductor products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.Skills Required: Attention to detail, analytical skills, and familiarity with quality control methodologies.Career Path: Advancement to senior quality control roles, quality assurance management, or compliance leadership. Packaging Engineer Responsibilities: Developing and optimizing the packaging of semiconductor devices to ensure durability and performance.Skills Required: Knowledge of packaging materials and techniques, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior packaging roles, packaging development leadership, or operational management. Test Engineer Responsibilities: Developing and conducting tests to ensure the functionality and reliability of semiconductor devices.Skills Required: Proficiency in test equipment and software, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities.Career Path: Advancement to senior test engineering roles, test management, or quality assurance leadership. Yield Engineer Responsibilities: Analyzing and improving production yields in semiconductor manufacturing processes.Skills Required: Knowledge of semiconductor fabrication, statistical analysis, and problem-solving skills.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior yield engineering roles, yield management, or operational strategy positions. Equipment and Maintenance SectorEquipment Engineer Responsibilities: Maintaining and repairing semiconductor manufacturing equipment.Skills Required: Technical expertise in machinery, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.Career Path: Opportunities to move into equipment management or senior engineering roles. Maintenance Technician Responsibilities: Performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting on semiconductor fabrication equipment.Skills Required: Mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.Career Path: Advancement to senior technician roles or supervisory positions. Equipment Technician Responsibilities: Installing, maintaining, and repairing semiconductor manufacturing equipment.Skills Required: Mechanical aptitude, technical skills in equipment operation, and attention to detail.Career Path: Advancement to senior technician roles, equipment management, or engineering positions. Metrology Engineer Responsibilities: Measuring and analyzing the physical properties of semiconductor materials and devices to ensure quality and compliance.Skills Required: Proficiency in metrology tools and techniques, attention to detail, and analytical skills.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior metrology roles, quality assurance leadership, or research and development. Sales and Marketing SectorTechnical Sales Representative Responsibilities: Selling semiconductor products to businesses, providing technical support, and building customer relationships.Skills Required: Strong understanding of semiconductor products, excellent communication skills, and sales acumen.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior sales roles, sales management, or business development. Product Marketing Manager Responsibilities: Developing marketing strategies for semiconductor products, conducting market research, and managing product launches.Skills Required: Marketing expertise, technical knowledge of semiconductor products, and strategic thinking.Career Path: Potential to advance to senior marketing positions, product management, or executive roles. Customer Support Engineer Responsibilities: Providing technical support to customers, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction.Skills Required: Technical expertise in semiconductor products, problem-solving skills, and excellent customer service abilities.Career Path: Advancement to senior support roles, technical support management, or product specialist positions. Field Applications Engineer Responsibilities: Providing technical support and solutions to customers, ensuring successful implementation of semiconductor products.Skills Required: Strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and excellent communication abilities.Career Path: Advancement to senior applications engineering roles, technical sales management, or product development. Business Development Manager Responsibilities: Identifying new business opportunities, building relationships with potential clients, and driving sales growth.Skills Required: Strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and industry knowledge.Career Path: Opportunities to move into senior business development roles, sales leadership, or executive positions. Market Research Analyst Responsibilities: Analyzing market trends and data to inform product development and marketing strategies.Skills Required: Analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis tools, and industry knowledge.Career Path: Advancement to senior market research roles, marketing management, or strategic planning positions. Research and Academia SectorResearch Scientist Responsibilities: Conducting advanced research in semiconductor technology, publishing findings, and developing new innovations.Skills Required: Strong research skills, expertise in semiconductor physics or materials science, and proficiency in experimental techniques.Career Path: Opportunities to lead research projects, secure funding, or transition into industry RD roles. University Professor Responsibilities: Teaching semiconductor technology courses, mentoring students, and conducting academic research.Skills Required: Deep knowledge of semiconductor theory and applications, teaching abilities, and research expertise.Career Path: Advancement to tenured positions, department leadership, or administrative roles in academia.Leading Companies in the Semiconductor Industry in Taiwan (Top Employers) 1. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) Overview: TSMC is the world's largest dedicated independent semiconductor foundry, renowned for its advanced manufacturing processes and cutting-edge technology.Key Areas: Fabrication of integrated circuits and semiconductor devices.Work Environment: Known for its innovation-driven culture, TSMC offers opportunities for growth, continuous learning, and participation in groundbreaking projects. 2. United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) Overview: UMC is a global semiconductor foundry offering high-quality IC manufacturing services.Key Areas: Specializes in logic and specialty technologies for a variety of applications including mobile, automotive, and IoT.Work Environment: UMC fosters a collaborative and dynamic work environment, emphasizing employee development and technological innovation. 3. MediaTek Overview: MediaTek is a leading fabless semiconductor company providing advanced system-on-chip (SoC) solutions for wireless communications, HDTV, DVD, and Blu-ray.Key Areas: Development of SoC for smartphones, tablets, digital TVs, and networking products.Work Environment: MediaTek offers a creative and inclusive workplace, encouraging innovation and offering career advancement opportunities. 4. Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc. (ASE Group) Overview: ASE Group is a prominent provider of semiconductor packaging and testing services.Key Areas: IC packaging, materials, and electronic manufacturing services.Work Environment: ASE Group is known for its commitment to quality and continuous improvement, providing a supportive environment for professional growth. 5. Nanya Technology Corporation Overview: Nanya Technology is a major player in the DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) industry.Key Areas: Manufacturing and selling of memory products and solutions.Work Environment: Nanya Technology offers a challenging yet rewarding work environment, with a focus on innovation and technology advancement. 6. Winbond Electronics Corporation Overview: Winbond specializes in the design and manufacture of semiconductor memory solutions.Key Areas: DRAM, Flash memory, and mobile memory products.Work Environment: Winbond fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for employees to work on cutting-edge technologies and solutions. 7. Etron Technology, Inc. Overview: Etron is known for its expertise in memory and system chips, providing high-performance and cost-effective semiconductor solutions.Key Areas: Specialty DRAM, Pseudo SRAM, and system ICs.Work Environment: Etron offers a collaborative and innovative work environment, encouraging employees to push the boundaries of technology. 8. Realtek Semiconductor Corp. Overview: Realtek is a leading fabless semiconductor company, producing a wide range of integrated circuits for communications networks, computer peripherals, and multimedia applications.Key Areas: Network ICs, multimedia ICs, and computer peripheral ICs.Work Environment: Realtek is known for its friendly and cooperative work culture, emphasizing employee development and technological excellence. 9. Phison Electronics Corporation Overview: Phison is a leader in NAND flash controller IC design and solutions.Key Areas: Design and manufacturing of NAND flash controllers and modules.Work Environment: Phison provides a dynamic and innovative work atmosphere, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. 10. Global Unichip Corporation (GUC) Overview: GUC is a leading provider of customized SoC (System on Chip) solutions.Key Areas: Design and development of ASICs and SoCs for various applications.Work Environment: GUC emphasizes a collaborative and innovative work environment, fostering creativity and technological advancements. 11. Elan Microelectronics Corporation Overview: Elan is known for its expertise in smart human-machine interface solutions.Key Areas: Development of touchscreen controllers, touchpads, and biometric sensors.Work Environment: Elan offers a supportive and innovative work culture, focusing on cutting-edge technology and employee growth. 12. Macronix International Co., Ltd. Overview: Macronix specializes in non-volatile memory products.Key Areas: Manufacture and sale of NOR Flash and ROM products.Work Environment: Macronix provides a challenging yet rewarding work environment, focusing on innovation and technological advancement. 13. Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation (VIS) Overview: VIS focuses on specialty IC foundry services.Key Areas: Manufacturing of power management ICs, LCD driver ICs, and other specialty ICs.Work Environment: VIS promotes a collaborative and innovative culture, with a strong emphasis on employee development and technological excellence. 14. Novatek Microelectronics Corp. Overview: Novatek is a leading IC design company specializing in display and digital imaging solutions.Key Areas: Development of display driver ICs and digital imaging ICs.Work Environment: Novatek offers a creative and forward-thinking work environment, with opportunities for career growth and participation in innovative projects.FAQs for Pursuing a Career in Semiconductors 1. Why is the semiconductor industry important in Taiwan? Taiwan is a global leader in the semiconductor industry, home to top companies like TSMC and UMC. The industry thrives on innovation and significant investment in RD, making Taiwan crucial to the global supply chain and technological advancements. 2. What are some typical job roles in the semiconductor industry? Job roles include semiconductor design engineers, process engineers, RD engineers, verification engineers, analog and digital design engineers, fabrication technicians, production engineers, quality control specialists, test engineers, etc. 3. How do semiconductor engineer salaries in Taiwan compare to other engineering fields? Semiconductor engineers in Taiwan typically earn competitive salaries, with entry-level positions ranging from NT$600,000 to NT$1,000,000 per year, mid-level positions from NT$1,000,000 to NT$2,000,000, and senior roles exceeding NT$2,000,000. These salaries are generally higher compared to other engineering disciplines due to the industry's complexity and demand. 4. What are the challenges of working in the semiconductor industry? Challenges include high-pressure environments, tight deadlines, and the need for constant learning to keep up with rapid technological advancements. However, these challenges are offset by the industry's dynamic nature and the opportunity to work on impactful technologies. 5. Is semiconductor engineering a good career choice? Yes, semiconductor engineering is a highly rewarding and good career path choice with excellent job prospects, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to work on groundbreaking technologies that shape the future of electronics and technology.Conclusion Pursuing a career in the semiconductor industry can be highly rewarding. This exciting field offers a unique blend of technical challenges and opportunities for innovation, making it an excellent choice for those passionate about technology and problem-solving. With the industry's continuous advancements and rapid growth, professionals in this field can look forward to a dynamic and impactful career. The semiconductor sector's contributions to various critical technologies, from smartphones to renewable energy, underscore its importance and the crucial role that skilled professionals play in shaping the future. For more information on semiconductor careers and job opportunities, read more at Cake and take the next step toward a fulfilling career in this vital industry.Take your resume to new heights with Cake’s free resume builder – showcase your skills effortlessly. Personalize your resume with drag-and-drop simplicity, and it's completely free. Start crafting your standout resume now.Create Resume --- Originally Written by Donaven Leong ---
Industry & Job Overview
Jun 13th 2024

Mechanical Engineering Salary – The Highest Paid Jobs + 7 Necessary Skills

Mechanical EngineeringSalaryMechanical engineering plays an important but largely hidden role in our daily lives. Mechanical engineering concerns the creation and operation of machines and systems, a role that has an enormous impact on a variety of industries, from aerospace to robotics and biomedical technology. Mechanical engineering is lucrative - according to ACEC Research Institute, engineering contributed nearly 600 million dollars to the American economy in 2019, and it's only expected to grow from there. The rising demand for mechanical engineers across industries highlights the importance of understanding career outcomes and mechanical engineering salary information for anyone considering this career. Current mechanical engineers should understand their contributions to an organization to negotiate effectively while aspiring students should know what to expect when considering this career option. In this article, we’ll cover the current and future of mechanical engineering job outlook. For those pursuing a mechanical engineering career, we’ll go over the essential skills needed for mechanical engineering and what your career path might look like in one of the best engineering jobs.Table of ContentsThe Mechanical Engineers Job OutlookWhich Mechanical Engineer Has the Highest Salary?What Skills Does a Mechanical Engineer Need?Career Path for Mechanical Engineering JobsConclusion The Mechanical Engineers Job OutlookCurrent Employment Statistics According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 286,000 mechanical engineering jobs in the US in 2022, while Data USA estimates over 337,000 jobs. Given the wide application of mechanical engineering to a variety of industries, the large number of jobs available is no surprise, making this a profession with plenty of growth potential. Trends Influencing the Job Market Mechanical engineering jobs have diversified and grown in part thanks to research and development in areas like renewable energy, 3D printing, and AI. These new industries are increasingly popular and have only expanded the demand for mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineers are also in demand in industries that require automation, which could be everything from agriculture to product manufacturing and more. While mechanical engineers traditionally have been employed in the automotive and aerospace industries, more recent changes to these industries, such as privatized space exploration and driver assistance systems, have led to increased demand in mechanical engineering. Future Job Projections This industry is expected to grow 10%, outpacing the average rate, with over 19,000 projected new jobs available each year. Evolving industries like automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy will continue to drive this demand. However, despite this employment growth, upper-level and leadership positions may not be available in the next ten years, as the average age of mechanical engineers is currently around 40.Which Mechanical Engineer Has the Highest Salary? Due to the range of jobs and niches available to mechanical engineers, salaries consequently vary widely as well. Salaries in mechanical engineering fluctuate based on specialization, industry, experience, and location. Here are the specializations with some of the highest pay. Oil and Gas Engineering Scope of work: Oil and gas engineering is concerned with oil and gas extraction, refinement, and production. Oil and gas engineers often work on oil reserves and offshore drilling platforms.Average salary: the mean salary for a mechanical engineer in the oil and gas industry is USD 131,339.Industry demand: While the energy sector is shifting toward renewable and away from oil and gas, there is nonetheless increased demand for gas that outpaces innovation, keeping demand for engineers high. Robotics Engineering Scope of work: Robotics engineers design and create robots and automated machines and systems. Robotics engineers can find employment in agriculture, manufacturing, and even medicine.Average salary: The average salary for a robotics engineer is USD 124,599, and the highest level could be as much as $165,000 with experience.Industry demand: Robotics engineering has grown alongside an increased interest in AI. Robotics engineers are also in demand in manufacturing, where automation is essential, and in healthcare, which has shown a growing need for specialized robotics. Aerospace Engineering Scope of work: Aerospace engineers develop and design equipment like air and spacecraft, missiles, and satellites. They apply their knowledge to new craft designs, test prototypes, and diagnose problems.Average salary: The average mechanical engineering salary in aerospace is USD 122,270. An entry-level aerospace engineer's salary begins at $96,000, while senior roles earn as much as $168,000.Industry demand: While there has always been a demand for aircraft engineers, the increase in interest in private space exploration has led to employment growth in aerospace engineering. Aerospace engineering also has military applications, making demand for these roles high. Renewable Energy Engineering Scope of work: Renewable energy engineering involves creating machines and mechanical systems that use hydro, solar, and wind power.Average salary: The average salary for an engineer in renewable energy is USD 104,230, with a range between an average base of $92,000 and a high of $147,000. Some of the highest-paid states for renewable energy engineers are Arizona and New Mexico.Industry demand: With changes in climate and consumer preferences, renewable energy is a growing industry with a healthy demand for engineers. Automotive Engineering Scope of work: Automotive engineers design and build cars and vehicle systems. Their employers can be major car and trunk companies as well as parts manufacturers and even racing teams.Average salary: the mean salary for an automotive engineer ranges from USD 82,490 to $149,484, with the average being $99,842 based on 5508 salaries.Industry demand: Demand for automotive engineers is expected to increase, especially as new advancements in ADAS continue. Some of the most popular states for automotive engineers are Michigan, California, and Texas. Biomedical Engineering Scope of work: Biomedical engineering involves designing and creating medical devices. Biomedical engineers make everything from joint replacements to imaging devices.Average salary: The average annual wage for a biomedical engineer is USD 99,550. According to US News, some of the best-paid states for biomedical engineers include Arizona and California.Industry demand: biomedical technology is a relatively stable industry that always has demand, as science looks for new and improved ways to meet the medical needs of populations.What Skills Does a Mechanical Engineer Need? Possessing or honing the right skills is an important way to increase job performance and grow in your career as a mechanical engineer. Mechanical engineers’ earning potential depends on more than just their industry and experience – key mechanical engineering skills are an important element of their success. The following are skills that may increase a mechanical engineering salary:Key Technical Skills Proficiency in Engineering Software Most mechanical engineers use some form of engineering software, specified to their industry. Some engineering software includes CAD, CAM, and FEA. They can be learned through coursework but are often covered in mechanical engineering programs. Understanding of Core Mechanical Principles A mandatory skill to have is good knowledge of the principles of mechanical engineering: materials science, mechanics, and thermodynamics. The theory of mechanical engineering is the foundation of the job and is therefore essential to understand thoroughly.Key Soft Skills Project Management Mechanical engineers should be skilled in project management. They will undertake a range of projects from design to production, a process that involves a large team and moving parts. Professional mechanical engineers should be efficient with their time and organized when it comes to completing projects. Analytical Thinking Analytical thinking is an important soft skill for mechanical engineers. Analytical thinking allows engineers to solve complicated problems or think up creative solutions to existing market gaps. Problem-Solving Problem-solving skills are the bedrock of a mechanical engineering role. Mechanical engineers will encounter many problems with their projects and need creative solutions to move forward. Communication Mechanical engineers work as part of a much larger team or organization and therefore need good communication to achieve results. They must present ideas and collaborate with various team members, all of which require strong verbal and written communication. Teamwork Mechanical engineers are a small part of a larger team that may include software engineers, design, project managers, and marketers. Mechanical engineers should be able to work efficiently and professionally with all their team members.Career Path for Mechanical Engineering Jobs While everyone’s mechanical engineering journey is a little different, most mechanical engineering careers follow a progressive route with many steps that require increasing experience, skills, and expertise. Here is the typical career path of a mechanical engineer: Entry-Level Jobs Typical first jobs for engineers with a bachelor’s degree may be design or project engineering, involving the basics of design and mechanics. Entry-level positions typically won’t be in leadership, but newcomers can use these roles to learn more about the systems and industries they work in and increase their exposure to project management.📚Further reading: Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for a Mechanical Engineer Job Mid-Level Roles When mechanical engineers have more experience or an advanced degree, they may transition to mid-level roles with more management responsibility. These roles could be project management or senior engineering, and they involve more technical and management skills, such as specialized knowledge or good communication. Specialization Opportunities With more mechanical engineering experience comes the opportunity to specialize. Specializing in industries like robotics or aerospace can lead to greater salaries and more job opportunities, as it typically involves increased skills training or a master’s degree. Advanced and Leadership Positions The next step in this career path is advanced or leadership positions, which come with greater mechanical engineering salaries. These are roles like chief engineer or engineering director. Typically, it involves years of experience in engineering and advanced technical skills, but as these are also leadership roles, they also involve management and leadership skills.📚Further reading: How to be a Good Leader: Guide to Mastering Leadership! Alternative Career Paths A mechanical engineering career path need not be linear, and there is a potential for alternative career maps. Roles like consulting allow mechanical engineers to apply their knowledge to organizations or systems, while entrepreneurship allows mechanical engineers to use their designs to grow a business.💡Pro tip: Education and certification are essential at every stage of a mechanical engineer's career. Continuous learning, from undergraduate studies to advanced specializations, ensures engineers stay current with industry trends. Relevant certifications enhance expertise and competitiveness, fostering professional growth and opening doors to higher-paying and leadership roles. ConclusionMechanical engineering is one of those lucky occupations with high demand that is only expected to increase over time. While mechanical engineering salaries are high across the board, specializations like oil and gas or aerospace can lead to a higher salary, along with pursuing a postgraduate degree and other certifications. Be sure to do research on the regions with the highest mechanical engineering salaries and look for certifications or ways to specialize. Check out Cake for more advice on mechanical engineering and other careers, and useful tools for designing a resume and cover letter.With Cake, an online resume builder, we provide you with hundreds of professional resume templates (free download) and various great resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume --- Originally Written by Tiffany Quinn ---
Industry & Job Overview
Feb 28th 2025

Business Analyst vs Business Development: Key Differences Explained

Business Analyst vs Business Development Choosing between a career as a Business Analyst (BA) or a path in Business Development (BD) can feel like standing at a crossroads, each way offering unique and exciting opportunities. If you're feeling pulled in both directions, you're not alone. These two roles are fundamental to business success, but they bring different strengths to the table. In this article, we'll explore what it means to be a Business Analyst versus a Business Development professional, break down their key differences, and guide you toward the path that might be the perfect fit for your skills and ambitions. Table of Contents Definition: The differences between Business Analyst (BA) and Business Development (BD) Business Analyst vs Business Development: Skill Set Comparison Business Analyst vs Business Development: Salary and Outlook Choosing the Right Career Path Conclusion Definition: The differences between Business Analyst (BA) and Business Development (BD) Whether you're a fresh graduate, someone ready to make a career leap, or simply curious about where your talents could shine the most, this guide will help you make a confident choice in today’s competitive job landscape. What is Business analyst? First, we will start by learning about the role of a Business Analyst. A Business Analyst (BA) plays an essential role in helping organizations improve how they work. They do this by identifying business needs, analyzing data, and developing solutions that make business operations more efficient. Think of Business Analyst role, the link between business stakeholders and IT teams— ensuring everyone is on the same page and that projects align with the company’s overall goals. They spend a lot of time talking to stakeholders to understand what’s needed, analyzing data to uncover trends, and creating models that visualize business processes and highlight areas for improvement. They also work closely with IT teams to design and implement new systems or make changes that add real value. At their core, BAs are all about finding ways to streamline business processes, boost productivity, and solve challenges through data-driven insights and strategic thinking. When it comes to career progression, BAs usually start as Junior Analysts, then move up to Business Analyst, Senior Analyst, and eventually a Business Analysis Manager. Some BAs also choose to transition into roles like Product Manager or Consultant as they gain more experience. To thrive in this field, a BA needs a mix of skills— strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key. Technical skills, such as working with SQL, Tableau, or Excel, combined with solid stakeholder management, can really help you stand out and grow. Nowadays, the demand for Business Analysts is on the rise across many industries, from tech to healthcare to finance, as companies increasingly rely on data to make smarter decisions. This role is perfect for those who love problem-solving, critical analysis, and finding ways to make organizations run better. What is Business Development? To Business Development professionals, they focus on driving growth by identifying new business opportunities, building relationships, and developing strategies that help increase revenue. Unlike Business Analysts, who mainly work internally, BD professionals have an outward-facing role—focusing on partnerships, market expansion, and customer engagement. BD professionals are responsible for generating leads, conducting market research to uncover trends, developing company sales strategies, and negotiating deals that can expand the business's reach. They are often seen as the driving force behind new revenue streams and work closely with sales, marketing, and executive teams to achieve growth targets. Their role is about creating connections and opportunities that bring in new business and help the company grow. In terms of career path, Business Development usually starts with roles like Business Development Representative, followed by Business Development Manager, and eventually Director of Business Development. With experience and proven success, BD professionals may even step into executive positions like Vice President of Business Development or Chief Growth Officer. To thrive in this field, you’ll need strong skills in sales, negotiation, and networking, along with strategic thinking to identify the best opportunities for growth. Familiarity with tools like Salesforce or HubSpot, a solid understanding of finance, and excellent communication are also key to excelling in this career. Business Development responsibilities are well-suited to dynamic industries like startups, SaaS, and consulting—places where growth and relationship-building are essential. If you enjoy strategic thinking, deal-making, and connecting with people, this could be the perfect career path for you. Business Analyst vs Business Development: Skill Set Comparison The skill sets required for Business Analyst and Business Development roles are quite distinct, although they do share some similarities. Below is a comparison chart to help you quickly understand the key skills needed for each role: Skill SetBusiness AnalystBusiness DevelopmentData Analysis ToolsSQL, Tableau, ExcelNot typically requiredCRM ToolsNot typically requiredSalesforce, HubSpotMarket AnalysisLimitedEssentialRequirements GatheringEssentialNot requiredProcess MappingEssentialNot requiredNegotiation SkillsHelpful but not centralCrucialStakeholder CommunicationBridge between IT and business teamsRelationship-building and sales focusFinancial AcumenHelpfulEssentialStrategic ThinkingImportant for business solutionsKey for identifying growth opportunities Let’s figure out the above comparison! Business Analysts need a strong grasp of data analysis tools, such as SQL, Tableau, and Excel, as well as the ability to gather requirements and map processes. They are responsible for analyzing complex data and ensuring that business needs are met through effective solutions, making critical thinking and technical knowledge essential for success. Additionally, strong communication skills are crucial for collaborating with stakeholders and translating technical findings into actionable business strategies. On the other hand, Business Development professionals rely on their ability to identify opportunities for growth and build strategic relationships. Hard skills like proficiency in CRM tools, such as Salesforce, as well as an understanding of market analysis and financial acumen, are key to excelling in this role. Unlike Business Analysts, who focus on optimizing internal processes, Business Development professionals are outward-facing, concentrating on driving revenue and fostering partnerships. This makes soft skills, such as negotiation, persuasive communication, and relationship-building, vital for success in a BD role. While Business Analysts act as a bridge between business and IT, ensuring that projects align with business goals, Business Development professionals focus on expanding the company’s market presence and driving sales. The ability to navigate stakeholder communication is important in both roles, but the nature of that communication differs: Business Analysts focus on translating business needs into technical solutions, whereas Business Development is centered around building external partnerships and closing business deals. Ultimately, both roles require a unique blend of hard and soft skills, with Business Analysts leaning more towards analytical and technical expertise, and Business Development professionals emphasizing strategic thinking and relationship management. Business Analyst vs Business Development: Salary and Outlook Salary: An Overview According to Glassdoor, Business Analysts in the US earn an average of $75,000–$95,000 annually, depending on experience and location. Business Development professionals earn a similar range, with entry-level roles starting at $65,000 and senior roles exceeding $100,000. Bonus structures for BD roles can significantly enhance earnings. On the other hand, salaries and job outlook for Business Analyst and Business Development roles can vary significantly across the SEA markets – like Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. In Singapore, Business Analysts typically earn between SGD 55,000 to SGD 90,000 per year, while in Malaysia, they can expect an annual salary of MYR 60,000 to MYR 100,000, depending on experience and industry. In Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, the salary ranges tend to vary between USD 15,000 to USD 45,000 annually for mid-level Business Analysts, reflecting different cost-of-living levels and market demand. Business Development roles also have competitive compensation, especially when performance-based bonuses are included. In Singapore, BD professionals can earn between SGD 50,000 to SGD 110,000, with additional incentives tied to sales targets. In Malaysia and Thailand, BD professionals generally earn between MYR 50,000 to MYR 120,000 or THB 400,000 to THB 1,200,000, respectively. In Vietnam, BD salaries tend to be between VND 180 million to VND 600 million annually, with performance bonuses making up a significant portion of total compensation. Job Market Outlook Both roles are experiencing a positive job outlook in these regions. Business Analysts are increasingly sought after in finance, technology, and healthcare sectors, where data-driven decision-making is crucial. Similarly, Business Development professionals are in high demand, particularly in startups, tech firms, and consulting companies looking to expand their market presence. If you're deciding between a career as a Business Analyst (BA) or in Business Development (BD), it's important to understand the educational foundations and certifications that can enhance your journey. Let's explore how these two paths compare: Business Analyst: Business Analysts typically come from backgrounds in Business, IT, or Data Analytics. A degree in one of these fields provides a solid understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of a business, enabling BAs to bridge gaps between stakeholders and technical teams effectively. Additionally, certifications such as CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional) or PMI-PBA (Professional in Business Analysis) can significantly enhance your prospects. These certifications signal your commitment to mastering BA methodologies, and they're highly regarded across the industry, helping you stand out in a competitive field. Business Development: For those inclined towards Business Development, degrees in Business Administration, Marketing, or Finance are common and offer a strong grounding in market dynamics, customer needs, and business strategy. In BD, connecting with clients and building relationships is crucial, and that's where certifications like HubSpot Inbound Sales or LinkedIn Sales Navigator come into play. These certifications can give you an edge by enhancing your understanding of sales strategies, client engagement, and effective lead generation—skills that are indispensable in BD roles. A Common Thread: Whether you choose the path of a Business Analyst or Business Development professional, both careers value continuous learning and adaptability. The business landscape is always evolving, and keeping up with new skills, technologies, and strategies is what will help you thrive. Investing in certifications and upskilling isn't just about improving your resume—it's about staying agile and ensuring you can meet the demands of a dynamic industry. In short, while the educational paths and certifications for BA and BD roles might differ, both careers require a solid understanding of business fundamentals, a thirst for knowledge, and the ability to adapt. No matter which road you take, ongoing learning is a key ingredient to success. Choosing the Right Career Path Choosing between Business Analyst and Business Development often comes down to personal strengths and career aspirations. To help with this decision, consider using some of the following career tools to evaluate yourself: SWOT Analysis Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for each role. Write these down to get a clear understanding of which areas you excel in and where you may need improvement. Personality and Aptitude Tests Tools like Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Gallup StrengthsFinder can provide insight into your natural preferences, strengths, and tendencies. For example, if your MBTI result leans toward extroversion and networking, Business Development might be a good match. Career Assessment Platforms Platforms like CareerExplorer or 16Personalities offer in-depth career assessments that suggest roles based on your skills and interests. These tools can help you determine whether your strengths align more with data analysis or relationship management. Self-Reflection and Journaling Spend time journaling about the activities that energize you and those that drain you. If you enjoy diving deep into details, analyzing data, and problem-solving, you might find Business Analysis more rewarding. If you love engaging with people and forming new connections, Business Development could be a better fit. Online Skill Assessment Courses Websites like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning provide courses that allow you to explore skills related to both fields. You can take introductory courses on topics like SQL for Business Analysts or sales strategy for Business Development to see which subjects you feel most comfortable with. Of no less significance, industries can also influence your decision. Business Analysts are in high demand in sectors like technology and finance, where data and processes play a crucial role. Business Development, however, is often favored in dynamic environments like startups, where growth is the primary focus. When considering salary, interests, and long-term goals, it's essential to align your career with what excites you the most. Before you make a decision, you can gain some hands-on experience through internships, informational interviews, or even online courses to better understand which field resonates with you before making a long-term commitment. Conclusion In summary, both Business Analyst and Business Development roles offer exciting career opportunities, each with unique responsibilities, skill requirements, and growth potential. By understanding their differences, reflecting on your own skills and interests, and considering your long-term career goals, you can make an informed decision about which path is right for you. Remember, there's no right or wrong choice—just the best fit for your aspirations. For more career tips, insights, and professional development resources, be sure to follow Cake so that you won’t miss any news from us! Use Cake’s free online resume builder to create and download your resume in PDF for free. Create your resume now and land your dream job! Create Resume--- Originally written by Andrea Do---

How to Become a Successful Digital Marketer

Table of Contents Understand the fundamentals How to be a digital marketer According to Bullhorn, 71% of hiring managers are struggling to find enough skilled professionals in digital marketing; there’s never been a better time to become a digital marketer. Not only can becoming a digital marketer ensure application success, but it’s also a field that can provide a fairly lucrative salary. But this begs the question: how can one become a digital marketer in the first place? As businesses move their presence and advertising off billboards and into the virtual world, the need for digital marketers in every sector around the world has never been greater. Over 88% of businesses currently operate, at least on some level, in the digital space, and digital marketers' career prospects can extend into any industry, from medicine and engineering to education and retail. As of 2024, the average annual salary for an entry-level digital marketer position in the United States stands at around US$65,418. For the average Digital Marketing Manager, this figure sits around US$88,343, with the total value of compensation packages reaching well past US$100,000 annually. These comparatively high figures reflect the growing demand for digital marketing professionals in the workplace and the integral part they play in the success of companies in the modern marketplace. With prospects like these, it’s hard not to want to become a digital marketer. But what exactly is digital marketing, and what do digital marketers do? In this article, we will discuss the full scope of becoming a digital marketer, acquiring and applying digital marketing skills, constructing an attractive digital marketing resume, and much more! If you are interested in getting a headstart in one of the most lucrative professions, stick around to the end of this article!Who are digital marketers and what do they do?Digital marketing refers to the promotion and advertising of companies, brands, and products on online platforms, whether on independent websites or as online advertisements. Digital marketers have a broad range of responsibilities, including SEO content production, email and social media marketing, and building digital marketing campaigns to expand brand awareness and recognition. Understand the fundamentals Before becoming a digital marketer, one must first understand the fundamentals. Digital marketing professionals are required to have a deep understanding of industry terms and digital marketing concepts. In this section, we will briefly introduce the most popular marketing concepts and explain their significance as they relate to the success of a digital marketer. SEO Search Engine Optimization is an area of digital marketing that revolves around the ranking of content on search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and Bing, as well as the rate of organic traffic to a website. SEO content specialists understand how search engine algorithms determine if an article contains trustworthy information, is engaging and if it fully discusses the topic it sets out to explain. The higher ranked an article is by the search engine, the closer it is to the first page of search results. With only 25% and 18% of consumers clicking through to the second and third page of search results, the importance of employing a digital marketer who can consistently allow your content to have a high Search Engine Results Page (SERP) ranking is undeniable. If you're looking to become an SEO specialist, learn how to write a resume for an SEO position. SEM Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is similar to SEO but deals more specifically with the way content is ranked and accessed through paid advertisements. SEM specialists focus on increasing both organic traffic to a website and traffic generated through paid advertisements on other platforms or websites. This is an important skill for a digital marketer to possess if their company places banner advertisements on websites or videos. You might want to get used to Google Ads if you want to do SEM. Social media marketing With almost 5 billion users of social media, the demand and competition for the top spots in advertising on platforms such as Instagram and YouTube have never been higher. Social media marketing is a lucrative specialization whose strategies revolve around utilizing the reach of social media platforms to drive traffic toward a product or service. Social media marketers must understand market and platform trends, as well as the way that users interact with the services themselves. If you're looking to become a social media marketer, learn how to write a resume for a social media marketing position. Content marketing Traditional content marketing is a specialization that focuses on the creation of visual and written media for sharing and distribution purposes. Content marketers focus on maximizing content ad brand awareness and brand loyalty, both of which are key to maintaining the success of a product or service. Email marketing Email marketing is a strategy that digital marketers use to reach out to new and existing clients to advertise a product or service. It is a great way to solicit new clients through cold emails or incentivize existing customers to repurchase a product. While it is recommended that digital marketers have at least a preliminary understanding of all the aforementioned strategies, choosing a specialization can increase your marketability. It is common for businesses to employ digital marketing specialists with different competencies, meaning that having a deep understanding of one or two digital marketing strategies can positively reflect in available career opportunities. How to be a digital marketer  Step-by-Step to Becoming a Digital Marketer Once you understand the foundation required to become a digital marketer, you can begin to discover how to develop the necessary skill set to find success in the digital marketing industry. In this section, we will discuss everything you need to know to develop the qualifications needed to market yourself as a digital marketing specialist. 1) Acquiring Relevant Education and Training There are several ways to acquire the necessary skills to pursue a digital marketing career. Three main routes are formal education, taking online digital marketing certification courses, and independently studying with other self-learning resources. Formal education: While many digital marketing skills can be learned online, investing in a degree can provide access to professionals in the industry and resources not available anywhere else. A degree in digital marketing can even be a job requirement for higher-level positions within the industry! Another benefit of formal education in digital marketing is the space and time it affords for you to discover and explore your interests and engage in extracurricular projects and part-time jobs without the pressure of a full-time position, all the while discovering what specialization you would like to focus on following graduation.Online courses: If formal education is not in the books for you, don’t fret! The internet is a valuable resource and compendium for a limitless amount of information. There are many online courses and digital marketing certification websites that offer much of the knowledge that can be gained through more formal routes of education. Many of these courses offer a certificate at its end – for a small fee, you can get a certificate proving your competency which you can include in your CV or resume!Self-learning resources: If you are an established digital marketing professional or do not have the financial resources or time to engage in physical or online education but want to deepen your digital marketing proficiencies, you can pick up instructional books or read industry blogs to keep up with trends and developments in the digital marketing field! 2) Developing Essential Skills Regardless of the path a digital marketer takes to acquire their knowledge and background, they must pick up a range of key skills required to succeed in digital marketing. These skills include: Analytical skills for interpreting dataCreativity for designing compelling campaignsCommunication skills for effective messagingTechnical proficiency in using digital marketing tools and platformsDigital marketing strategy developing an executing These hard and soft skills would prove invaluable in any digital marketing specialization and can help you integrate seamlessly into most modern workspaces. What is more, as digital marketing is a continuously evolving industry, there are many online resources and digital marketing certification resources that you can register for and add to your resume or CV. Some of the most reputable digital marketing courses and certification platforms include edX, Coursera, Udemy, HubSpot Academy, and LinkedIn. 3) Learn how to use digital marketing tools. A digital marketing specialist should have some level of competence in digital marketing tools. These tools allow digital marketers to do many core responsibilities, including keeping track of trending keywords and market trends, tracking the progress of existing and current projects, and monitoring the organic and/or paid traffic into advertised products and services, to name a few! Here are some digital marketing tools for the following core digital marketing specializations: Search Engine Optimization: Tools like WordPress can be used to create and maintain websites, including their plugins and themes, to personalize written SEO content.Social media: Social media marketers can use BuzzSumo to track social media trends, influencer trends, trending content, and more on a wide range of social media platforms.Email marketing: Email marketers can check out a program called Hemingway. Hemingway is a spelling and grammar checker that can eliminate semantic and syntax mistakes in a written text. Linguistic errors are unprofessional and do not reflect well on a company and the marketer responsible for sending the flawed work! You can also check out Campaign Monitor for assistance in tracking mailing lists and automating messages.Marketing data analytics: Google Analytics and Google Search Console are great tools for tracking market data. These programs allow you to monitor changes in website activity and the effectiveness of advertisements in relation to CTR and position in search page rankings. 4) Gain hands-on experience The importance of gaining hands-on experience in digital marketing cannot be understated. Experience is gold when becoming a digital marketer and is something that can be attained through internships, freelance projects, or personal projects. You can find different digital marketing career options like internships and apprenticeships on online platforms such as Cake and get a headstart on your career today! These experiences will both provide the environment to hone your existing skills and allow you to develop new ones along the way to make yourself more marketable in the future! Gaining hands-on experience can also be a good way for them to choose your niche. As previously discussed, choosing a specialization within high-demand fields of digital marketing (whether it be SEO, social media, content marketing, or email marketing), specialization offers a greater incentive to employers to hire you for their specific needs. For instance, a digital marketer specializing in social media marketing has a higher chance of landing a job in that field as opposed to a jack-of-all-trades digital marketer with cursory knowledge of every specialization. 5) Build a portfolio Experience is gold in any industry, and digital marketing is certainly no exception! Experienced digital marketing professionals should take the time to compile summaries and copies of past projects into a portfolio. This portfolio can be used as evidence in an interview to show employers your skill sets and practice specializations. Generally speaking, your digital marketing portfolio should always: Showcase only your best work.Include the most recent projects first and list others in chronological order.Be regularly updatedInclude contact information in case employers wish to reach out to youInclude any digital marketing certifications and certificates you may possess If you do not have a portfolio already or wish to update yours to the modern workplace, Cake’s portfolio feature could be the right place for you! Our comprehensive portfolio builder includes attractive templates and helpful tips that you can use to make a killer portfolio that can land you your dream job! Check out Cake’s portfolio builder. 6) Write a digital marketing resume The next step in becoming a digital marketer is writing a digital marketing resume. Taking time to craft a compelling and attractive resume carefully often means the difference between having your application package overlooked and landing the first interview. There are many ways to write a resume, but all well-crafted resumes should contain and reflect your level of experience, past accomplishments, and hard and soft skills that would make you a good fit for the company and position you are applying.You can find detailed tips and digital marketing resume examples here.For digital marketers seeing employment, consider the following points when creating your resume: a) Include achievement with a consolidated number. Experience is gold, but quantifiable metrics that provide tangible evidence of your experience mean the most in a resume. Whenever possible, include numbers and figures that connect to your accomplishments. Providing figures related to the quantity and/or quality of your work shows employers that you are worth investing in and hiring and directly shows the value that you could bring to their operations. Here is an example of including achievements with relevant figures in a resume: Produced 37 marketing campaigns for 14 products, resulting in a 400% increase in CTR over 8 months and generating over US$700,000 in sales revenue. b) Choose a proper resume format. The format and order of the sections in your resume can change significantly depending on the level of experience you bring to the table. Entry-level professionals who are beginning their careers in digital marketing should consider a functional resume. A functional resume highlights the potential value that an individual can provide in the future. In other words, a function resume shows the future potential that can be realized over time. On the other hand, a digital marketing veteran with years of experience and accomplishments under their belts should opt for a chronological resume. This type of resume is tailored toward demonstrating an individual’s overall career path and highlights the preexisting value that is being brought to the table. Chronological resumes focus closely on quantifiable metrics of success and track the evolution and progression of a career over many years. You can also consider a combinational resume format if the other two don't suit your needs. c) Adopt an ATS-friendly resume format and design. The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a program that many (especially larger) companies use to digitalize, filter, and monitor submitted applications for positions advertised. ATS works on an algorithm that scrapes data from resumes and runs it against preset conditions to push certain applications that contain the information desired by a company. Ensure that when building your resume, it is in an ATS-friendly format and design. This means that your resume should be in the correct file format (as requested by the company), should include keywords related to the position you are applying for, should not contain graphics or photographs (unless specifically requested), and should use a common resume font like Times New Roman. Following these steps maximizes the chances of your resume passing the preliminary computerized review and can land an in-person or online interview! 7) Build a network A fundamental element of becoming a digital marketer is having a strong and well-rounded professional network of contacts. Networking comes easily for a lucky few but is generally a skill that is developed over time and through much trial and error. Nevertheless, a good network with professionals in your field can allow you to keep up to date with industry changes and trends and can give you access to industry events that can accelerate your career and success as a digital marketer! While attending networking events and mixers is a great way to connect locally with people face-to-face, online platforms offer a much more lucrative experience as they allow you to form an international network of contacts around the world. Some popular networking websites include LinkedIn, Eventbrite, Cake, and Jobcase, to name a few. Networking can be especially challenging for beginners. Follow these tips to help you become the most interesting person in the room! Prepare ahead of the event: If you are attending a networking event in person, spend some time researching it. Ensure that your industry knowledge of digital marketing strategies is up to date and that you are aware of the companies that will send representatives to the event to seek out talent. Prepare some interesting ice-breaking networking questions, which might be a good idea.Make your 30-second pitch: In a networking event, marketing yourself is everything. Examine your career and/or qualifications to date and devise an engaging self-introduction that you can comfortably deliver when asked about yourself.Create an attractive conversation initiator: When networking online, sending the perfect opening message is essential. When connecting with someone new on a networking website, ensure that the message you send is customized to the individual and states the reason you feel you would be a valuable addition to their network of contacts! 8) Continuous learning and staying updated Digital marketing is a rapidly evolving industry where success is largely dictated by keeping abreast with trends on social media and consumer preferences. As such, digital marketers should be in a constant state of learning and research to maximize the success of their marketing ventures. There are several ways that digital marketers can stay updated and make sure that their content remains relevant to the consumer. These include: Following industry blogs: The Internet is one of the best sources of information! Following popular industry blogs that discuss changes in market trends and consumer preferences is a good way to stay ahead of the curve and ensure the content you produce is in line with current digital marketing standards.Attending webinars: Online seminars, called webinars, are a popular medium of continued education. One or more established professionals typically host Webinars, which are great spaces to ask questions and pick the minds of those who are more experienced and practiced at their craft!Networking with professionals: Forming professional connections with other professionals in the digital marketing field is a great way to increase your exposure to new technologies and strategies to employ in your day-to-day career. Professionals are always eager to share expertise and knowledge; newbies and veterans in the digital marketing space can take advantage of this to upgrade their knowledge and professional networks! Conclusion Digital marketing is a broad field that has grown into one of the most sought-after specializations in recent years. With the digitalization of so many services, the need for a strong and marketable online presence has never been greater. Digital marketers can benefit from the traditional formal education route but can also pick up many skills online and through independent study. As the field continues to evolve, digital marketers must do their best to learn new skills and technologies continuously, and to keep up with market trends and consumer preferences. Luckily, many programs, applications, certifications, and courses are at the modern digital marketer’s disposal and provide everything needed to succeed in this competitive industry!We hope that you found this article insightful. If you are looking to maximize your career prospects in digital marketing or any other field, check out the Cake article collection! Our collection of curated resources, articles, and services is a great resource for beginners and veterans alike, offering quality career advice, tips, and tricks. Check us out today! Start Your Digital Marketing Career NowBeyond documents, Cake helps you grow: build an online portfolio, find opportunities on our job portal, and establish your personal brand.Cake is your all-in-one career solution. Use our online resume builder for an ATS-friendly resume, complete with hundreds of free, professional resume templates and examples. Optimize your application instantly with Cake AI Resume Checker and generate a compelling cover letter with Cake Cover letter AI.Ready to simplify your job search and make success a piece of cake? Start using Cake now! — Originally written by Alexander Coye —
Industry & Job Overview
Aug 26th 2025

How to Become a Therapist (Definition, Requirements, and Common Q&A)

7 Common Career Paths as a TherapistBecoming a therapist is an exciting and rewarding career move. Therapists provide a crucial function today by helping people process their trauma or stress, giving them tools to manage mental illness or helping them resolve big issues in their lives. Therapy can address behavior, thought patterns, relationships, illness, and more. Given that people today are handling much more stress than previous generations, therapists are constantly in short supply. If you’re thinking of becoming a therapist, you’ll likely find a wealth and variety of job opportunities available. Read on to discover the first steps to becoming a therapist.TABLEOFCONTENTSHow to Become a TherapistThe Difference between Therapists vs Counsellors vs Psychologists7 Common Therapist CareersTherapist FAQs How to Become a Therapist There are a number of steps to becoming a therapist, and the path you choose to take depends on the type of therapy you’d like to do. Read on to discover how to become a licensed therapist. 📖 Education requirements It’s impossible to become a therapist without first meeting the basic therapist education requirements. You might be wondering about a therapist degree, but the reality is, there is no single degree needed to be a therapist, and there are different options available to you. Bachelor’sA minimum qualification to become a therapist is a bachelor’s degree. A common therapist program is a bachelor’s in psychology, although not every therapist takes this route. Other therapist degrees at the bachelor level are social work and sociology.Master'sAfter a bachelor’s degree, you generally need a master’s to become a therapist. Degree programs that meet therapist requirements could be a master’s in clinical or counselling psychology. A master’s degree will help you learn different approaches to therapy and generally should include some practice hours.Graduate-level counselling programsSome people choose to take postgraduate counselling programs on the route to becoming a therapist. These therapist programs could be specific to the type of therapy you want to do. Music therapy, trauma-centered counselling, and addictions therapy are all examples of postgraduate programs you can take to become a therapist. 📖 Experience hours After meeting the therapist education requirements, the next step to becoming a therapist is to gain experience hours under supervision. This can often be done as part of your therapist program, and some schools even offer placement assistance. Minimum hour requirements vary by state. 📖 Exams State licensure examAfter meeting the degree qualifications to be a therapist, your next step is to get licensed in your state. Every state offers a licensing exam and passing it will give you the necessary credentials to be a therapist.Jurisprudence exam (if required)If you want to become a therapist, you might need to take a jurisprudence exam, depending on where you want to practice. The jurisprudence exam will cover state laws and practices. Nearly a dozen states require this last step to become a therapist, so it’s important to check the requirements for your state.The Difference between Therapists vs Counsellors vs PsychologistsWhen people consider how to become a therapist, they might have some confusion about how this role differs from other mental health professionals. The reality is these terms are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences in the role of a therapist, counsellor, and psychologist. Understanding these different positions can give you clarity on the path to becoming a therapist.🔔 QualificationsOne big difference is the education to be a therapist compared to similar roles. The minimum education for a therapist and counselor is typically a master’s degree, while a PhD is required to be a psychologist. Another qualification to be a therapist is practicum hours, which will be fewer than the required hours for a psychologist. There are also different state licensing exams for each different role.🔔 Job DutiesApart from a psychologist, counselor, and therapist qualifications, these roles also differ in their job duties. While the terms therapist and counselor are often used interchangeably, the goals of their treatment can be subtly different. Counselors are generally focused on helping clients change their behavior to become more functional. In contrast, therapists and psychologists tend to explore their client’s issues on a deeper level, helping them to understand the underlying issues behind their behavior and thought patterns.7 Common Therapist Careers On your path to becoming a therapist, you can choose which demographic you want to work with or what style of therapy you’d like to do. There are many different therapy careers you can consider when you become a therapist and your passion for certain issues can guide you in the right direction. Art Therapist Many people want to know how to become an art therapist, since art is a unique and creative approach to traditional therapy. Art therapy is a form of counselling wherein the client uses art to express or explore their emotions. To pursue this career path, after meeting the basic therapist degree qualifications, you might need a postgraduate certificate in art therapy. Psychotherapist Psychotherapists can work with a number of different groups using talk therapy. This style of therapy requires the client to be vulnerable and open-minded, and it can help people with a wide range of issues. If you’re wondering how to become a psychotherapist, you need a master’s in counselling or clinical psychology that includes specialized courses in talk therapy. Marriage and Family Therapist A marriage and family therapist can help couples and families develop stronger relationships. Family therapists often work in a similar capacity to social workers, assisting people with their interpersonal problems and helping them communicate. If you’re interested in becoming a therapist for families and couples, look for post-graduate therapist programs that specialize in family therapy. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapist On your path to becoming a therapist, you might consider a rewarding career in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA therapists address why behaviors occur and how they are learned. ABA therapy can help improve dysfunctional behaviors and increase positive outcomes for the client. This position often requires a specialized post-graduate therapist program. Recreational Therapist Recreational therapy involves using recreation and other activities to help improve the lives of people with mental and physical illnesses. This could be a good option for you if you want to become a therapist and work in nursing homes or hospitals. Depending on the organisation you apply to, you may need therapist schooling that specializes in recreation. Child Therapist If you’re thinking of becoming a therapist and you like kids, child therapy might be for you. As the name suggests, child therapists work with younger clients to address issues like learning, behaviour, and illness. The requirement to become a therapist for children could be a post-graduate certificate in child therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) Cognitive behavioral therapists help their clients to think critically about thought patterns and take control of their own solutions. CBT tends to help people explore their issues more deeply. Many therapist degree programs address CBT already, since it’s a prominent school of thought.Therapist FAQs You’re not alone in wondering how you become a therapist! Many people are interested in a career helping people through therapy, but don’t know where to start. Here are three frequently asked questions about becoming a therapist. ❓ What degree do you need to become a therapist? Many therapy positions require at minimum a master’s degree, although this varies with the organization. You will need at least a bachelor’s degree to become a therapist, and a master’s and/or postgraduate certificate programs will help you increase your options. ❓ How long does it take to become a therapist? The question of how long it takes to become a therapist really depends on the kind of therapy you intend to do and what the minimum therapist education requirements are. First, you will need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree to become a therapist, and usually a master’s degree and beyond. The time it takes to become a therapist could therefore be at least four years to as much as eight. ❓ How much does a therapist make? Salary is important to research if you’re thinking of becoming a therapist. Since there are a variety of different therapists and organisations that employ them, the salary range for a therapist can be quite wide. A psychotherapist, for example, can make anywhere from $48,000 to $85,000, while the average salary for a family therapist is $67,400.Key Takeaways Therapy is a skill that is badly needed by many people today. One of the first steps to becoming a therapist is to research therapist qualifications. There are several different therapist degree programs you can take before your state licensing exam. After you meet all the therapist requirements, there is a variety of career options available, like art therapy and CBT. Therapy can change lives, so if you’re thinking of becoming a therapist, you’ll find a rewarding and challenging career ahead of you.Wondering if your resume is working against you? Our AI-powered tool identifies weak spots and shows you exactly how to fix them.Find Weak Spots — Originally written by Tiffany Quinn —
Industry & Job Overview
Aug 13th 2024

10+ Jobs Likely to Be Replaced by AI in the Near Future

10+ Jobs Likely to Be Replaced by AIin the Near FutureAs we enter a new era of technology, namely AI, some might wonder what jobs will AI replace in the near future. With AI technologies and AI tools advancing at a frantic pace, it's almost a guarantee that AI will be taking over many jobs performed by human workers. Some say that due to the significant disruption and rapid advancement seen across all business sectors, AI replacing jobs and human resources is only a matter of time, and it’s not a difficult question to answer at all because AI at this point can already be used to do so many jobs more efficiently, compared to human being. The current capabilities of AI and AI-powered tools range from completing repetitive tasks tirelessly, correcting code, proofreading essays, creating curriculums, editing photos, and producing animations all by entering the right prompts. However, others also believe human will remain crucial and that jobs being replaced by AI technology in the immediate future is still too soon to say, as many job roles require human capabilities, human drivers, human judgment, human connection, human emotions, human touch as well as emotional intelligence and emotional responses. For example, AI-powered chatbots might be able to replace a customer service representative to some degree, but the human perspective and deep understanding when answering customer inquiries by provided human beings are naturally unmatched by a mere automated system or AI skills.Table of ContentsImpact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Job Market10+ Jobs Are Likely to Be Replaced by AIHow to Stay Relevant in the AI Era?Key Takeaways Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Job MarketAutomation is a vital tool of modern industry Many industries are prioritizing AI for several different reasons, but automation is likely the most common and crucial role. Automation has existed for a long time, but with rapid advancements in current AI technologies, software and robotics have been greatly enhanced to make manual labor production significantly more efficient. Naturally, the more efficient automation becomes, the less demand there will be for human labor like factory workers to do mundane tasks for companies. For instance, in manufacturing, the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) records over 3 million robots working on assembly lines, making the traditional factory worker more and more redundant and making it one of the job security concerns. In logistics, on the other hand, vehicles now have automatic drivers, as well as effective categorization software for warehousing and supply chain management, while in the E-Commerce sector, slower studies and methods of enhancing personalized marketing have been replaced by advanced AI algorithms that not only understand what every individual consumer likely wants, but supplies automated checkout experiences making purchases seamless. Different skills are valued in the AI era A significant number of people in the labor force worry about their skills becoming obsolete, but it's important to recognize that AI opens up exciting new opportunities for skill investment and growth. The most obvious demand for new skills in the AI era is skills revolving around using AI and AI systems. It’s important to recognize that AI is still only a tool, with no agency of its own. This means that people who know how to use AI as a tool the most effectively will become the most highly valuable workers. People with a solid AI foundation, especially data scientists and software engineers are going to be great assets to every single industry, even those not directly involved in technology. However, this does not mean that everyone needs to become a computer scientist or computer programmer to compete in the job market to avoid job replacement. While there will undoubtedly be an uptick in learning hard skills like data analysis, a way to separate yourself from other colleagues is to focus on your soft skills. AI is incredibly efficient when it comes to automation, but it is still far behind in many things humans are good at such as communicating, empathy, leadership, teamwork, or even interpersonal conflict resolution. Despite technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence still cannot figure out ways to solve common problems the same way that skilled and intellectual labor regularly does. People simply have more frames of reference and ways of obtaining contextual information and forming strategic planning that makes their creativity and critical thinking more applicable and solutions more practical than what AI can usually offer. This is why it is important to have people with amazing problem-solving and creative attributes guiding AI. There are certain jobs that are heavily reliant on human interaction that AI simply cannot compete with for the time being. First is roles in management. While AI may have the organizational aspect, it still lack the ability to properly communicate with other colleagues, analyze data as well as make a decision like human workers do. Next is consulting jobs like those in charge of financial analysis and legal research. Since industrial knowledge is highly nuanced, someone who has spent years helping others develop their companies will be able to provide valuable information in a clearer way that an AI cannot replicate. Many believe that AI will also have a significant impact on teaching jobs. However, while AI tools can generate lesson plans and curriculums, they still cannot emulate managing a classroom, mentoring a student, or simply have the charisma that some educators may possess. The same applies to social workers. Humans are best suited to understanding how other humans think, and the problems that people go through on a day-to-day basis. Psychologists, therapists, social workers, and certain Human Resource developers all have to solve issues around the most complex computer of all — the mind. Lastly, healthcare personnel are also irreplaceable. Although AI will make administration more efficient, the face-to-face roles of doctors, physician assistants, technicians, nurses, dentists, and veterinarians are all roles that prompt-based AI has no means of competing with. These individuals not only need to make complex decisions based on experience but often need to make patients feel at ease in situations that may be uncomfortable. The rise of AI has not necessarily eliminated jobs, but in many cases have simply transferred them from the office to someone’s home. Jobs that are heavily affected by AI writing tools, generative AI, and AI-generated content like assistants, content writers, and graphic designers no longer need to be in-house employees, and companies will begin to hire people with these professions on a case-by-case basis. AI has greatly grown the gig economy, and by association, remote work is becoming the norm for many careers. This can be a major benefit to people as it provides the ability to work for multiple companies at once, more autonomy over your career, and a less high-pressure environment of working in an office. Despite the concern of job replacement, AI will also create new jobs, and companies will reallocate their resources to different professions. Therefore, there will be a reduction in some jobs while others will drastically increase in both wage and demand. The more skilled you are, the more likely you are to be on the receiving end of a higher wage, especially if you have familiarized yourself with AI which will eventually become the standard.10+ Jobs Are Likely to Be Replaced by AI Even though there are careers that are going to be AI-resistant, it is still inevitable that many positions in certain industries will be replaced. Let’s go over certain careers you may approach with caution, or if you already have these positions you should consider growing your skillset to keep yourself relevant. 1. Retail Clerks AI is incredibly good at repetition, so jobs revolving around repetition are at threat of being replaced. Cashiers, checkout clerks, and store clerks are all at threat of automation. Brick and Mortar stores are implementing self-check checkout stations that are more cost-efficient than paying cashiers wages and benefits. McKinsey Company says that companies can save over $300 billion in revenue by reducing their labor cost due to automation. Connectivity between people's online accounts and in-person checkouts means you can simply walk out with your goods and have everything billed to your account. This also gives companies valuable data on your buying habits, increasing their effectiveness in making you a consistent customer. 2. Manufacturing Workers AI taking over the assembly lines is highly likely, especially if the company is filled with unskilled labor. Thanks to AI, robotics has increased to a level where human manufacturing workers are not nearly as prized. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2025, 85 million routine-based jobs will be replaced in manufacturing and neighboring industries by AI. Along with assembly line workers, machine operators, and quality insurance, demand will go down. Software has developed to the point where many machines, including vehicles, are self-operational. The combination of machine learning and AI Vision has created software that can sense defects in products at both a faster and more accurate rate than human quality insurance inspectors can do. 3. Drivers According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), delivery of truck drivers and other driving professions will decline by 3% by 2030 due to automation. Vehicles no longer need manual drivers to operate. AI also makes more effective decisions for more optimal routes, has better estimates on changes in traffic and weather, and can avoid costly traffic accidents to greatly raise profitability for delivery-based companies. Not only will automated vehicles replace drivers of automobiles, but automobiles themselves will have to compete with drones. Amazon has a drone-based service called Amazon Air which can effectively bypass contemporary traffic. More development and infrastructure for drones will possibly revolutionize the courier industry. 4. Accountants Gartner produced a survey that said 37% of companies have already begun implementing AI in their finance departments. The automation of accounting in the legal industry has been a massive plus for more advanced accountants, giving them more time to focus on strategy instead of mundane tasks, but junior accountants, are likely to be replaced. Jobs related to bookkeeping, payroll and accounts repayable will be reduced. These are typically entry-level jobs in accounting, and because many of them involve relatively simple, routine tasks, they are perfect for AI systems to handle. Assistant-based roles like Assistant Auditor and Assistant Cost Accountant will not be in high demand anymore as well. It will be more effective for the senior accountant to simply use the AI as its assistant, given that it is a tool that doesn’t make many mistakes if you tell it what to do. 5. Customer Service Representatives The way we interact with customer service has already changed in a gigantic way. Nearly every company you reach out to has you speaking to an AI initially. Gartner claims that 70% of companies already use some type of machine learning application to interact with customer inquiries. No matter what platform you use to reach out to companies — email, chatbox, or phone call, you are going to interact with a bot that has a database of how to solve common problems and a flowchart of how to interact with the consumer’s questions and information. Due to how many problems are simple fixes in customer service, this means that certain IT technicians will have reduced roles, as AI will be able to troubleshoot many simple but frequent problems customers encounter. 6. Administrators Administrators have typically been the glue that keeps firms together, but a study by Deloitte says that AI will reduce administrative costs by 40%. Similar to how customer support agents are going to have to compete with automated messages, receptionists will no longer be a staple of many businesses. Advance documentation systems and organizational applications will cut into the jobs available for the traditional file clerk and office assistant. Data entry, which was at one point a highly coveted remote job, is becoming increasingly difficult to find since now AI can do those tasks with close to no error. 7. Financial Analysts Finance has often been the backbone of white-collar and service industry-oriented societies, but even those with finance and business degrees are not immune to the effects of artificial intelligence. The World Economic Forum reports that 230,000 jobs in finance will be lost throughout the world by 2025. This is due to the fact that many analytical jobs revolve around gathering, sorting, and projecting data. These were typically skills that needed a good degree of education, but sorting information and making predictive analysis is something that AI is proficient at. The need for decision-makers is still in demand, but the people who gave those decision-makers the data and tools they need will be replaced by advanced machine learning with relatively easy-to-use functionality. 8. Content Writers and Journalists According to Gartner, 20% of all business content is produced by AI While writing is typically associated with “creativity”, which in theory should be AI resistant, there are large amounts of content that does not require much creative input. There is a lot of content that is fact-oriented. The weather, the temperature, and the scores between sports teams - can all be reported by AI through automation. In addition, editors will have their duties reduced due to the effectiveness of AI’s proofreading ability. While AI is not perfect in terms of correcting grammatical, stylistic, and spelling mistakes, it is still fast and effortless. 9. Telemarketers With a 27% rise of consumers now open to AI interaction (according to PwC), this means that cold calling will undergo a titanic shift. Cold calling is taxing and anxiety-reducing for most people, but an AI, can cold call relentlessly without any hesitation or fatigue, reaching an incredible number of potential clients within hours. AI will also be able to do call-backs and follow-up calls with perfect timing, providing telemarketing companies with little reason to have many salespersons. Perhaps the most valuable role in telemarketing is the ability to generate leads. Due to AI's ability to collect and utilize mass amounts of data, leads can be generated through automation, reducing one of the most lucrative roles in the telemarketing industry. 10. Travel Advisors It’s become commonplace to interact with bots when changing flights, accommodations, and other inquiries in someone's itinerary. Accenture says 85% of travelers are willing to use AI to plan their trips. Personalization is one of the things that makes AI so powerful in the travel industry. AI's ability to analyze a person's preferences and give suggestions to the type of places they want to go or hotels they want to stay at reduces the need to get counsel from travel experts. Destination experts will likely need to focus on telling people about emerging or hidden gem areas, as AI will inform travelers about the most common and visited destinations in an area. 11. Legal Assistants Roles like legal assistants in the legal industry revolve around gathering information and facts, which is a suitable task for artificial intelligence. Thomas Reuters has a study that indicates 76% of legal professionals believe AI will radically change the legal field by 2030. Paralegals, researchers, and drafters revolve around gathering data and writing reports for attorneys to use. Document indexing, case management, and templates that can generate contracts on a whim all drastically cut down the amount of labor needed for documentation-oriented roles. Other jobs involved in the legal area like transcription will be affected by AI Audio recognition with artificial intelligence is improving at a rapid pace, making basic transcriptions with little error plausible.How to Stay Relevant in the AI Era? AI has already affected modern industry, and there is no turning back. From this point forward, AI’s influence on the job sector will only grow, and likely at a fast pace. Any serious professional should consider how to keep their skills up to date and develop strategies to make them non-expendable. The most obvious trait you need to protect your job from AI is to get rid of complacency in your skillset. Adopting a mindset of continuous learning has kept people resilient to technology redundancies for decades, and it will be no different when dealing with AI. Roles that revolve around analysis, data science, coding, designing, investing, and countless others benefit greatly from the implementation of AI’s powerful ability to automate useful templates, gather mass amounts of data, organize information into useful reports, and complete annoying chores that have plagued professionals who want to focus on the “big picture” elements of their career. Becoming familiar with AI tools to the point where you can implement them to supplement your career instead of becoming redundant is obtainable all over the internet. There are countless online courses, both paid for and free such as Google AI, DeepLearning AI, and Coursera that can offer you the skills you need as well as certifications to prove to employers you are useful in the modern market. Practicing your social skills will be paramount to staying relevant as well. Develop your communication ability and leverage it into going to networking events, seminars, and workshops to not only learn from other professionals but also find leads to high-level positions that will keep your resume looking marketable.Key Takeaways In some ways, the threat of AI technology and AI tools to one's job market is nothing new. The use of smartphones, the internet, and computers in general all drastically changed the workforce, and those who were smart and ambitious flourished with adapting to the times. AI exists to make life easier, not more difficult. So embrace the ways it can enhance your job and utilize it to make you more effective. If you’re still unsure of how to start your journey to developing your skills, you can visit Cake to learn strategies and tips on how to do so.Cake is a free online resume builder and portfolio builder that provides you with hundreds of resume templates (free download) and various resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume — Originally Written byChristopher Grudge—
Industry & Job Overview
Jun 23rd 2022

Data Analyst: How to Get Your Foot in the Door & Get Hired

Created by CakeIn this article, we'll cover: How to become a data analyst with or without a degreeHow to become a data analyst with no experienceData analyst FAQData analysts play a vital role in the business world. A data analyst is responsible for collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to help a business make informed decisions. They use their skills in mathematics and statistics to interpret data sets and communicate their findings to others. A data analyst may also be responsible for developing new ways to collect and organize data. In the business world, data analysts play an essential role in helping companies make decisions about everything from product development to marketing strategy. By understanding trends and patterns in data, analysts can help businesses optimize their operations and stay ahead of the competition. If you're interested in pursuing a career in data analytics, you may be wondering how to get your foot in the door. With data analyst jobs on the rise, it's more important than ever to have the right skills and qualifications. Fortunately, there are many ways to break into this field. In this blog post, we will discuss the different paths you can take to become a data analyst. We will also provide tips for getting hired in this growing industry. How to become a data analyst with or without a degreeThere are many ways to become a data analyst. You can pursue a data analytics degree or get hired without one. If you have a degree in data analytics, you'll likely have an advantage over candidates without a data analytics degree thanks to the specialized skills and knowledge you'll have acquired. However, data analytics degrees are not always required for data analyst jobs. In many cases, employers are more interested in your ability to analyze data than your educational background. With or without a data analytics degree, you can get a data analyst job by following the steps below.Learn fundamental knowledge about data analysis.Work on technical skills.Learn to create visualizations.Build a strong portfolio with data analysis projects.Write a perfect resume.Apply for data analysis jobs. 🎯 Learn fundamental knowledge about data analysis. There are many degrees that can help you pursue a career in data analytics. A few of the most common degrees include statistics, mathematics, and computer science. These degrees will give you the fundamental knowledge you need to understand and analyze data sets. However, you don't necessarily need a data analytics degree to become a data analyst. There are many ways to get into data analytics other than formal education. If you don't have a data analytics degree, consider taking online courses or attending workshops to learn the basics of data analysis. You could build your data analytics skills by working on personal projects or contributing to open-source data sets. Any experience you have working with data will be helpful in landing a job as a data analyst. If you have transferable skills from another field, such as marketing or accounting, you may be able to transition into data analytics without starting from scratch. 🎯 Work on your technical skills. Technical skills are essential for data analysts throughout their career path. Data analysts need to be able to manipulate, transform, and analyze data sets. Some of the most important technical skills for data analysts include: Coding skills In the corporate world, data sets are usually huge, so it's important to be able to work with large data sets efficiently. Coding skills will help you automate repetitive tasks and speed up your workflow as a professional data analyst. Data visualization skills Data visualization skills will come in handy when you need to communicate your findings to others. Data mining, cleansing and wrangling skills Data mining, data cleansing, and data wrangling skills are essential for finding the signal in the noise and extracting valuable insights from data sets. Statistical analysis skills Statistical analysis skills will help you understand data sets and find trends and patterns. Machine learning skills Machine learning is a growing field within data analytics. It is popular because it allows data analysts to automate repetitive tasks and make predictions about the future. These are just some examples of some essential technical skills that you may need to work on. If you do not have a degree in data analytics, you may want to consider taking some online courses or workshops to learn these skills. 🎯 Learn to create visualizations. Creating visualizations is a key part of data analysis. Data analysts use visualization to communicate their findings to others. This is a key skill to have in the business world, so many data analyst job descriptions will list data visualization skills as a requirement. There are many different software programs that you can use to create visualizations. Some popular data visualization software programs include Tableau, Google Data Studio, Google Sheets, and Microsoft Power BI. To become a data analyst, you should be familiar with at least one of these software programs. 🎯 Build a strong portfolio with data analysis projects. When you're applying for data analyst jobs, the employer would no doubt carefully review your portfolio. Your portfolio should showcase your technical skills and highlight any projects you've worked on that are relevant to the job you're applying for. If you don't have any previous work experience, having a strong portfolio is your chance to show employers what you're capable of. With or without a degree in data analytics, having a strong portfolio is essential for getting your foot in the door as a data analyst. 🎯 Write a perfect resume. Your resume is your first opportunity to make a good impression on potential employers. To get a job as a data analyst, you first need to have a strong resume that highlights your technical skills and work experience. A good resume for data analysts jobs should include: Any relevant work experience, even if it's not in the data analytics field: Employers will be looking for transferable skills that show you have the ability to work with data. And relevant work experience can show that.Any technical skills that you have, such as coding languages or statistical analysis software: If you don't have much work experience, including a section on your skills dedicated to relevant technical skills is a great way to show employers what you're capable of.Relevant education or certifications that you have: Even if you don't have a degree in data analytics, having a certification from an online course will show employers that you're serious about working in the field. If you follow these tips, you'll be sure to write a strong data analyst resume that will help you get your foot in the door.📚 Further reading: Data Analyst Resume Guide w/ Examples Templates 🎯 Apply for data analysis jobs. The next and final step is to start applying for data analyst jobs. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for, and highlight any skills or experience that are relevant to the position. It's also important to know that aside from a data analyst position, there are many other jobs in the data analytics field. Some examples include: data engineerbusiness intelligence analystdata scientistmarket research analyststatistician Don't limit yourself to applying for data analyst jobs, explore other positions in the field that you may be interested in. How to become a data analyst with no experienceIt can be difficult to get a job as a data analyst if you don't have any previous experience. However, there are some things you can do to increase your chances of getting hired. Here are 3 best tips for you if you don't know how to get a data analyst job as a fresher with little to no experience in the data analytics field: ✅ Enroll in data analytics courses. There are many online courses that you can take to learn about data analytics. These courses will teach you the basics of working with data, and some even offer certification. Some of the most recognized data analytics courses include Coursera, Udacity, and edX. While taking data analytics courses is a great way to learn about the field, they won't guarantee you a job after you finish the course. However, they will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the role. Many employers also prefer to hire candidates who have completed data analytics courses and earned certifications. ✅ Participate in data science bootcamps. Bootcamps are short, intensive programs that will teach you the skills you need to get a job as a data analyst. Bootcamps typically last for a few weeks or months, and they often have an emphasis on hands-on learning. There are many bootcamps to choose from, so make sure to do your research before enrolling. Bootcamps can be expensive, so make sure you're enrolling in one that has a good reputation and will give you the skills (and sometimes even teaches you how to get a job in data science) you need to get hired. ✅ Get internship experience. If you don't have any work experience, an internship is a great way to get your foot in the door. Many employers are open to hiring interns and giving them the opportunity to learn on the job. It's especially important to have an internship if you want to work in a specific data analytics field, such as healthcare or finance. An internship will give you the opportunity to learn about the day-to-day tasks of a data analyst and get hands-on experience working with data. It's also a great way to network and make connections in the industry. Data analyst FAQStill not sure how or if you want to get into data analytics? Here are some of the most searched questions about careers in data analytics. We've curated the most popular questions and provided answers to help you learn more about data analyst careers. ❓ How long does it take to become a data analyst? It could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years to become a data analyst depending on your prior experience and education. The amount of time it takes to become a data analyst depends on your previous experience and education. If you have a degree in a related field, such as computer science or business, you may be able to get hired without any prior experience. If you don't have a related degree, you may need to gain some work experience or take data analytics courses before you can be hired for a data analyst role. The best way to become a data analyst is to get experience working with data, so the time it takes to become a data analyst may vary depending on your experience and your ability to learn. ❓ Is coding required to be a data analyst? The answer is a simple yes. In the past, coding wasn't a necessary skill for data analysts. However, as data analytics has become more complex, employers are now looking for candidates who have at least basic coding skills. Coding along with data analysis skills will allow you to automate tasks, build data visualizations, and create custom reports at a scale that is otherwise not possible. To stay competitive as a data analyst throughout your career, keep your coding skills up-to-date. Even if you're not required to code in your current role, it's a valuable skill to have and will make you more marketable to employers. ❓ Are data analysts in demand? Yes, data analysts are in high demand. The demand for data analytics professionals is expected to grow by 25% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. With the digitization of everything from shopping to healthcare, businesses increasingly rely on data to make decisions, and need data analysts to help them make sense of all the data they're collecting. 🔑 Key Takeaways:Becoming a data analyst is not an easy task, but it is definitely worth it to invest in some of the most in-demand skills of the future. With the right skills and experience, you can be on your way to an exciting and rewarding career in data analytics.We've provided some tips and advice on how you can get started in your data analyst career path with or without a degree in data analytics:Acquiring technical skillsBuilding a strong data analysis portfolioWriting a great resumeThese are all important steps to take on your journey to becoming a data analyst.We hope this article has helped you get started on your journey to becoming a data analyst even if you're just starting out in the corporate world. And if you're already working as a data analyst, perhaps this has inspired you to share your own tips and advice on how to get started in data analytics! With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume in PDF, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create resume--- Originally written by Candy Ho ---

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