Once you've finished college, you might find that the available jobs that match your degree aren't paying as much as you'd hoped. If you're stuck in your job and need more cash, there are ways to make a better living.
1. Move Somewhere Else
Believe it or not, you can travel for better pay. Consider moving to a city where the average salary for your job is higher than it is at your current location. Be aware, however, that that could mean higher costs for everything else from rent to groceries. Another good option is to move to a place where the cost of living is much lower. You may be surprised how much your dollars can stretch in some communities. A third option is to look for travel jobs in your area of expertise. For example, someone with the right credentials and certifications can apply for cath lab tech travel jobs in other parts of the country. These opportunities offer competitive pay for those willing to relocate on a regular basis.
2. Go Back to School
You might find that all the jobs you're looking for require higher or more specialized degrees than you possess. If that's the case, it might be worth the cost to go back to school to get a more advanced degree. Numerous studies have shown that people with master's degrees can earn far more than those with bachelor's degrees. Yes, college is expensive, but you'll be glad you went back once those larger paychecks come in.
3. Join the Gig Economy
There are lots of self-employment opportunities available such as tutoring students, teaching musical instruments or even building websites. The internet has made it a lot easier to advertise your skills than it used to be just 20 years ago. It's also opened up new gig opportunities that can help you pay the bills. One of the most popular opportunities today is ride-sharing due to apps like Uber.
4. Ask for a Raise
A lot of people are afraid to ask their employers for a raise, but you may be surprised at how often they'll agree to one. Most employers will make the extra effort to keep valued employees working for them. If you're self-employed, then all you have to do is raise your prices. This might seem like a bad idea, but research has shown that people are more than willing to pay a little extra if they like your product. It can also lead to more clients over time.
5. Invest Your Money
This is always good advice, but a lot of people don't know that it can be done on a smaller level than they think. Index funds are simple to invest in, and they offer a decent return. Purchasing stocks with dividends is also a good idea, but you'll need to do your research on what companies are best to invest in. You can also look at peer-to-peer lending firms. These let you loan out your money to people who need a little short-term cash, and many people who choose this path see their money paid back with interest.
In short, there are lots of options available for anyone looking for a leg up. There are other options available such as selling unnecessary items in your home, starting a blog or even starting an online teaching course if you have expertise in a certain field. Once you take the first step, more money will come your way.
