Not so long ago, I was consulting a Swiss bank at a billable rate of CHF 225/h.
And this went on for months…
So why on earth would someone pay this much?
The answer is simpler than you think.
It has to do with supply and demand.
And yes, this is a service, but the same holds true as with physical products. Think of a rare Van Gogh painting. Crowds want the masterpiece, ready to pour lots of money.
It is 100% the same with some skills. Believe it or not, some skills are equivalent to Van Gogh’s masterpieces…
And others will want to pay dearly for it.
And the best part?
You can, too, learn these and change your life for the better.
To land a junior tech position, you need 3–6 months of self-prep in combination with a personal project…
And then you take off…
Junior during the first year… Then a medior, and after 3 years, you can hop to the senior level (depending on how fast you learn).
Once there, you will see most of the problems gone.
No more BS jobs, no more toxic environments, and no more micromanaging. You will be the one setting up the rules and behind the steering wheel.
From my 15+y experience, here are technical fields that pay best (+ that are future-proof).
Coding and Programming: This is a building block skill in the tech industry. Proficiency in multiple programming languages, such as Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript, will open all the doors for you. The more languages and frameworks you know, the more valuable you become. (How to choose the best programming language to learn?)
Data Analysis: With the rise of big data, companies need professionals who can make sense of data and improve decision-making and business practices. Knowledge of data analysis tools like SQL, R, and Python can be highly rewarding.
Cybersecurity: As technology advances, so does the risk of cyber threats. Companies are willing to pay top dollar for professionals who can protect their sensitive information. Skills in ethical hacking, information security, system security, and familiarity with regulations like GDPR pays very well.
Cloud Computing/AWS: As more businesses move their operations to the cloud, skills in cloud computing, particularly platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, are in high demand. Positions in cloud migration, management, and security are the place to be. (What is Cloud?)
AI and Machine Learning: AI and Machine Learning are rapidly growing fields in tech. Understanding AI algorithms, neural networks, and having the ability to implement machine learning models can lead to high-paying jobs.
Disclaimer: I used AI in redacting the content of this post.
And need to mention that literally anyone can do it (I am myself just of an average IQ — so, nothing special).
(Note: to be 100% realistic, people with health issues that involve a lack of focus or slow logical thinking might not be able to excel here.)
For everyone else, what matters more is persistence once you choose the field you want to learn.
And, of course, learning foundations right from the start also helps.
I also made a short 1-minute quiz that tells you what tech position fits you best (based on your character).
Experienced tech professional with a strong track record in web services and fintech. Collaborating with Silicon Valley's multi-billion tech giants and offering a range of services committed to excellence. Check the Services page for how I can help you too.
