Posted by Are you looking to start a successful career in the tech industry? If yes, then you’ll need to develop some in-demand computer skills. With so many options, you may need clarification about where to start; that’s where this article comes in. The following sections will examine seven computer skills that can land you a high-paying job in the tech sector. These skills are based on the latest research from industry experts and market trends. If mastered, you’ll be well on your way to securing a prosperous career.
Do you have a high-demand skill and are looking to earn from it? Consider checking out the ultimate online freelance marketplace, Fiverr. Earn massively, and don’t waste any time mastering this arena with our Free Fiverr guide.
Benefits of Learning Computer Skills
Learning computer skills will give you an edge when you apply for jobs in this day and age. In today’s digital world, most jobs require basic computer skills; others require advanced knowledge of specific software programs or programming languages. Here are some benefits of learning computer skills:
- Increased Job Opportunities
According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer science-related jobs are expected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030. This research reveals that people with computer skills will be highly sought after in the coming years.
- Higher Salaries
Jobs that require the applicant to have computer skills typically pay more than those that don’t. A degree in a computer-related field often has a median annual wage of $97,430, while the yearly wage of other occupations is $45,760.
- Better Career Advancement Opportunities
Even if you’re not pursuing a career in the tech industry, developing computer skills can make you eligible for promotions or leadership positions within your organization. You may also find a job opportunity in a different sector that pays more.
- More Flexibility and Work-life Balance
Many employers offer the opportunity for their employees to work remotely if the job is computer-related. This can be a significant benefit for people with families or those who want to balance other responsibilities with work.
1. Data Analysis
Median Annual Salary: $66,859
Data Analysis is one of the most in-demand skills in the tech industry today. The job of data analysts is to collect, clean, and analyze large amounts of data for businesses to help them make better decisions.
Since most organizations are collecting so much data, they often do not know how to analyze it; this is where the expertise of a data analyst is needed. These experts utilize several tools and techniques, including Python and R, Tableau, and machine learning algorithms.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in getting started as a data analyst, follow the steps below:
- Learn a statistical programming language like Python and R
- Take online courses and earn a certification as a data analyst
- Gain experience by working on personal projects or applying for an internship
2. Cyber Security
Median Annual Salary: $128,870
Another of the top in-demand computer skills that can land you a high-paying job is cybersecurity. These days, more businesses are at risk of cyberattacks, and the threats are becoming more sophisticated. So, employers are looking to hire professionals who will be responsible for protecting their data and systems from these attacks. These experts employ various tools to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber threats and are well-paid for them.
How to Get Started
Here is how to begin a career in cyber security:
- Learn about cybersecurity fundamentals such as security threats and operating systems
- Earn a cybersecurity certification. This could be the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or the CompTIA Security+
- Gain experience by volunteering to work for free
3. Cloud Computing
Median Annual Salary: $81,519
As a cloud computing professional, your job is to deliver computing services (servers, storage, databases, networking, intelligence, and more) on the cloud. This skill is in high demand as it offers faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale for businesses.
If you go for this skill, you’ll be in charge of designing, developing, and managing cloud-based applications using a variety of tools.
How to Get Started
- Research and learn about cloud computing platforms, cloud services, and cloud security
- Earn a cloud computing certification from a reputable site. This certificate could be the AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Professional or the Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
- Volunteer to help businesses with their cloud computing needs and get a good review
4. Computer Programming
Median Annual Salary: $91,116
Learning how to write codes and program computers can fetch you a sizable income per year. Using a variety of programming languages like Python, Java, and C++, computer programmers write codes that automate tasks, manage data, and provide a variety of services.
As a programmer, you’ll be responsible for developing and maintaining the software businesses need to succeed.
How to Get Started
- Learn a programming language like Python, Java, or C++
- Take online courses or attend coding boot camps to improve your skill
- Apply for an internship and practice your skills in a work environment
5. Web Development
Median Annual Salary: $74,742
These days, more and more businesses are moving their operations to websites. So, imagine how much you can earn if you help these companies design, create, and maintain their websites and web applications.
Web developers help businesses improve their customer experience and increase sales using a variety of programming languages and technologies.
How to Get Started
- Learn the basics of web development, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Hone your skills by earning certifications
- Work on personal projects to improve your skills
- Build a portfolio of your previous jobs
6. AI Consultant
Median Annual Salary: $120, 112
Becoming an AI consultant is also a lucrative skill that can set you on a successful career path. Your job description is to work with businesses in order to identify their AI needs, develop AI strategies, and implement the right AI technologies.
Since businesses of all sizes want to improve their operations and gain a competitive advantage via AI, bringing this solution to them could earn you $120,000 a year.
How to Get Started
- Earn a degree in computer science, engineering, or any other related field
- Obtain AI certifications; this could be the Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Machine Learning Engineer or the Microsoft Certified: Azure Machine Learning Engineer.
- Gain experience in the field through internships
- Develop soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
7. UI Designing
Median Annual Salary: $72,000
One of the top computer skills that can land you a high-paying job is UI design. With this skill, you can earn up to $50,710 a year, and your job will be to create interfaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Since users have high expectations of the interface they interact with, businesses are often ready to hire experts who know how to use typography, layout principles, and color theories to design visually appealing interfaces.
How to Get Started
- Learn the basics of UI design
- Take courses on sites like Alison or Upwork and earn a certification
- Carry out personal projects
- Build a portfolio to showcase your work.
Helpful Tips to Consider
Before starting your journey to learning computer skills that can land you a high-paying job, here are some tips and points to remember:
- Identify the Skills You Need
While the skills mentioned in this article are in high demand, they may not be well-suited for the position you’re looking for. So, before learning a skill, identify the specific needs in your industry by researching job postings and speaking to those who work in the field.
- Start with the Basics
If you’re new to computers, start with the basics. Learn how to use the internet, navigate a computer system, and handle common software like Microsoft Office.
- Take Online Courses
There are several online courses where you can learn new computer skills and earn degrees and certifications. Websites like Coursera, Skillshare, or Upwork offer a wide range of courses on topics like programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity.
- Practice
Once you’ve learned a new skill, sharpen it every day with constant practice. Consistency will help you become proficient and confident.
- Get a Degree
If you’re serious about pursuing a career in computer science, consider getting a degree. A BSc in computer science or another field will give you an edge over other applicants.
FAQs
Which Computer Skill is Most in Demand?
The computer skill that is most in demand is computer programming. This skill field is the foundation for many types of computer-related jobs. It is a must-have for web developers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, etc.
Here are some of the most in-demand programming languages in 2023:
- Python
- JavaScript
- Java
- C/C++
Which Soft Skill Should I Learn?
The soft skill that you should learn is problem-solving. This is because as computers become more complicated, they will become capable of automating many tasks that humans are doing. So, you should learn soft skills based on what computers cannot do — problem-solving and creative thinking.
What is the Easiest IT Skill to Learn?
The easiest IT skill to learn is HTML, the markup language used to create web pages. It serves a handful of purposes, including;
- Creating your own web pages
- Editing existing web pages
- Creating blog posts
- Writing documentation
- Creating presentations
Conclusion
We’re in the computer age; therefore, it’s not surprising that many jobs require that their candidates have computer skills. These skills are essential for success in many different fields. If mastered, any of the seven computer skills in this guide could help you secure a high-paying job.