I'm graduating high school soon and am exploring job opportunities that only require a high school diploma. What are the best entry-level jobs out there that offer decent pay and career advancements?
There are several jobs that you can consider that require only a high school diploma and offer decent pay with advancement opportunities:
1. Sales Representative: Many companies train and recruit high school graduates as sales reps. The job often includes selling products, meeting client needs, and building customer relationships. Additionally, with experience and good performance, you can likely advance into a management position.
2. Real Estate Broker: While this job often requires passing an exam and obtaining a license, you don't usually need more than a high school diploma. You'll make money off of commissions from selling homes, so the earning potential can be quite high, especially in booming real estate markets.
3. Administrative Assistant: These positions can serve as a stepping stone into a career in a business setting. Administrative Assistants support office management, handle correspondence, organize meetings, and maintain databases. Later, you might even transition into executive assistant roles, operations, or human resources.
4. Air Traffic Controller: They manage the movement of aircraft and ensure safe takeoffs and landings. This job requires specialized training but does not typically require a degree beyond a high school diploma. It's considered quite high-paying but is also quite stressful.
5. Construction Manager: While some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree, the construction industry also highly values experience. If you enter a construction position straight out of high school and work your way up, it's possible to advance into a managerial role.
6. Skilled Trades: Various trades like plumbing, electricians, HVAC technicians, carpenters, etc., are well-paying fields that often only require a high school diploma and an apprenticeship or vocational training.
Remember, though, to prioritize what interests you and aligns with your long-term career goals over simply what pays the best at the entry-level. Moreover, professional development and continued learning, whether through networking, training programs, or further formal education, will often be instrumental in job advancement.
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