If you are trying to get ahead financially, whether you are coming up with a deposit for your first home, focussed on paying down a mortgage, or working towards any other financial goals, budgeting and being able to save is critical, but as well as minimising your spending, a great way to get ahead is to maximise your income.
Your career is the engine room of wealth creation and a little focus on developing your career in a way that opens up your earning potential can reap dividends!
Invest in yourself
One of the best ways to increase your earning capacity is by continually developing your skills. Think of it as building your career toolbox. The more tools you have, the more valuable you become. Whether it’s mastering a new software, learning a new language, or gaining technical expertise, continuous learning makes your skillset more attractive in the job market.
If you’re in a specific industry, research the skills that are in high demand as small investments in education or training now, can lead to bigger pay checks down the line.
Focus on high-growth industries
Some industries pay more than others and knowing where to look can make a significant difference in your earning potential. For example, tech, healthcare and engineering are all fields with high earning potential due to the specialised skills and demand for professionals in those sectors.
If you’re not already in a high-growth field, it might be worth considering whether a career pivot could increase your earning potential. This doesn’t mean you need to make a dramatic shift—just exploring how your skills could transfer into more lucrative industries could help you increase your income.
Negotiate your salary with confidence
Negotiation might feel intimidating, especially if you’re just starting out, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to increase your earning potential. According to data by Salary.com only 37 per cent of us typically negotiate our salary and 18 per cent of people have never brought it up.i
Before an interview or performance review, take some time to research the typical salary range for your role in your location. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary Insights can give you a good idea of what others in similar positions are earning. If your offer or current salary is below the median range, don’t be afraid to ask for more. A polite and professional salary negotiation can lead to a significant income boost.
Even if you’re already employed, don’t hesitate to initiate a conversation about salary increases, especially if you’ve taken on new responsibilities or contributed to key projects. A small raise today can add up over time.
Network, Network, Network!
You’ve probably heard it before, but networking really is one of the best ways to advance in your career. Building relationships with people in your industry can help you learn about job openings, promotions, and other opportunities that can increase your income. Networking can also give you access to mentors who can offer valuable advice and help you navigate the career ladder more efficiently.
Attend industry events, join professional groups or online communities, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people on LinkedIn. Building these connections not only helps you learn and grow professionally, but it could also open doors to higher-paying job offers that you might not have come across otherwise.
Seek out opportunities
When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks of your job and forget that there may be opportunities for growth right in front of you. Always be proactive in seeking advancement within your current company first. Ask to be involved in new projects, show initiative, and express your interest in moving up the ladder.
Finally, remember that increasing your earning potential is a journey. Success won’t happen overnight, and there will be moments when it feels like progress is slow. But with consistency, a growth mindset, and a proactive approach, you’ll watch your earning capacity grow—and your progress toward your financial goals. You’ve got this!
i Most People Don’t Negotiate Due to Fear & Lack of Skills | Salary.com
