Median pay: $52,200
Top pay: $79,400
10-year job growth: 28%
Total jobs: 90,000
The job:
According to a recent survey, chief marketing officers expect marketing budgets to increase 6% from last year. That means more work for marketing specialists, a job where you can focus on areas as narrow as social media or search engine optimization, or be responsible for all aspects of promoting a product including pricing and advertising.
How to switch:
Little formal training is required. You'll have an easier time getting your foot in the door if you have experience with audience engagement or creative thinking. Plus, better to stay in an industry you know. The Business Marketing Association also offers professional development courses.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
C |
C |
B |
By Jessica Dickler, Anne C. Lee and Greg Swiatek
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