8 Most Promising Careers for 2011

The economy has not completely recovered – not even close.  But there are some bright spots in the job market.  Some skills are still in high demand and jobs are easy to come by for properly trained professionals.

Here are eight in-demand careers for people who are looking for a career change or who are about to enter the job market for the first time.  Employees in these fields should be on the hunt for companies that provide 360 feedback so that they can develop and improve while on the job.

1. Interpreter/translator.  As more and more businesses begin to adjust to the international marketplace, they require the services of people who are skilled in languages other than English.  Translators have job security and solid earning potential whether they work with a translation service or are hired to work directly with a multi-national company.
2. Medical technicians.  This field has two advantages.  First, it does not require extensive training.  Most medical technician jobs (from an x-ray operator to a medical lab technician) require six months to two years of education.  Second, people with the skills and knowledge to work in these fields are in high demand.  As the population of the US and other major nations ages, more and more people will require the services of a doctor more frequently.  The earnings potential for these positions is not stunningly high, but salaries should remain consistent and there is room for growth (with additional education) in related fields.
3. Web designer.  The internet is constantly evolving and expanding.  Every business and every organization wants to (needs to) have a presence on the internet.  Even the smallest business won’t be able to thrive without some sort of web site.  Skilled people who know the basics of building a web site and who can work with coding, javascript and databases, can make a good living either as a freelancer or as a full time employee.
4. Software specialist.  Knowledgeable software engineers are always in high demand.  The computer industry is changing quickly and everyone from video game manufacturers to online businesses to banks needs to update software constantly.  People who can write new programs or who can alter and update already existing programs, will be in demand.  This is another computer related field where it is possible to freelance, work for a company or build your own business.
5. Accountant.  Death and taxes are the only two certainties in life.  Tax accountants will be in demand as long as the tax code remains complicated.  Large businesses have accountants on staff, and even small businesses hire an accounting firm to take care of their day-to-day book-keeping and taxes.   Depending upon where you will be practicing, there are
   country-specific products available so make sure that if you’re going to be working in Canada, for example, you have familiarity with a professional tax and accounting software product such as Intuit’s.
6. Massage therapist.  Healthcare can be expensive.  More and more people are turning to alternatives instead of traditional therapies and prescription drugs.  Massage therapists can earn certification in less than a year and can find work on their own or in a number of venues from chiropractic offices and physical therapy centers to spas and fitness clubs.
7.  Conference planner.  According to Forbes Magazine, big growth is expected in this unusual career.  Conference or meeting planners take care of the logistics of setting up and running meetings and conferences and other similar events.  This can include everything from organizing special events and schedules to making sure that there are enough hotel rooms reserved for attendees.
8. Emergency services.  There will always be a demand for firefighters, paramedics, police and security people.  These jobs will never be outsourced and as the population of cities increases, there will be a large need for qualified personnel.  People in these professions will never get rich, but they will have a solid income and, usually, great benefits including healthcare and a generous retirement program.

Author Byline: Mark currently blogs about qr code and the best sites to find online auto insurance.