Education pays. Not only will you earn more, you'll also be less vulnerable to rising unemployment.
And you don't need a Bachelor's or Master's Degree to up your ante.
According to BLS, in 2008, workers over 25 with a 2-year Associate's Degree earned, on average, $736 a week. Compare that to high school graduates, who made just $591. The unemployment rate for this group is also 2% higher - a very significant gap when it comes to unemployment figures.
A 2-year degree - either online or on site - will put you on your way to a rewarding career as one of the following:
Inside Sales Consultant
Inside Sales Consultants work to maximize the sales and increase customer retention for large companies whose business is driven by independent agents. ISCs build and maintain productive relationships with agencies, find ways to maximize participation in incentives programs, coordinate education of agents on products, technology and market dynamics. They analyze regional trends, sales trends and perform financial reviews. Successful ISCs also increase agent retention and help agents increase sales.
Salary: $39,222
Degree Required: Associate's Degree in Business
Sales Worker Supervisor
As a Sales Worker Supervisor, you'll oversee the work of a sales staff - from retail salespersons and customer service representatives to sales engineers and wholesale sales reps. Your staff and responsibilities will vary, depending on the type and size of the organization, but some basic duties will include preparing work schedules and assigning workers to specific tasks. A job as a Sales Worker Supervisor can lead to a managerial position, which tends to focus more on planning and strategy.
Median Salary: $40,016
Degree Required: Associate's in Business Administration
Customer Support Representative
Are you good with people? Able to stay calm under pressure? If so, you'd probably make a great Customer Support Representative. In this role, you're the main point of contact for customers, whether they're individuals or other companies. You may be on the phone talking to customers, placing and processing orders or coordinating with other departments. You'll need to make sure customers receive adequate service, and help them with any questions or concerns. You'll also want to help build long-term customer loyalty. Some questions are routine, but others are more involved and may require in-depth research or consulting with a supervisor. Either way, communication skills will be essential to your success.
Median Salary: $39,958
Degree required: Associate's in Business Administration
