The Best and Worst Jobs to Apply for in 2023

The job market is constantly changing due to various factors such as technology, economy, society, and environment. Some jobs are becoming more popular and profitable, while others are becoming less relevant and rewarding. In this article, we will look at some of the best and worst jobs to apply for in 2023, based on the data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and other sources.

The Worst Jobs

The worst jobs are those that are dying or declining due to automation, technology, competition, or changing consumer preferences. These jobs have fewer opportunities, lower incomes, and less security in the future. Here are some examples of such jobs:

• Travel agent: Travel agents plan and book travel arrangements for clients, such as flights, hotels, tours, and car rentals. However, with the availability of online search and booking sites, many people prefer to do their own research and reservations, reducing the demand for travel agents. The BLS says the median wage for travel agents is $36,460 annually, but the number of travel agents in the U.S. has been falling for years and is expected to decline by 12% by 2024.
• Telephone switchboard operator: Telephone switchboard operators route calls to the appropriate person or department using a switchboard or a computer system. However, with the advancement of technology, most calls can be handled automatically or by voice recognition software, making human operators obsolete. The BLS says the median annual wage for switchboard operators is about $28,000, but the number of switchboard operator positions in the U.S. is projected to decrease by 33% in the next decade.
• Postal worker: Postal workers sort, process, and deliver mail and packages to homes and businesses. However, with the rise of email, online shopping, and private delivery services, the volume of mail handled by the Postal Service has been declining for years, forcing them to cut costs and reduce staff. The BLS says the median annual wage for postal workers is about $49,000, but the number of postal workers in the U.S. is expected to drop by 28% by 2024.
• Newspaper reporter: Newspaper reporters research, write, and edit news stories for print or online publications. However, with the popularity of digital media, social media, and blogs, the demand for traditional newspapers has been shrinking, leading to layoffs, closures, and mergers in the industry. The BLS says the median annual wage for newspaper reporters is about $37,000, but the number of newspaper reporters in the U.S. is projected to decline by 9% by 2024.
• Radio or TV announcer: Radio or TV announcers present news, music, sports, or entertainment programs on radio or television. However, with the competition from streaming services, podcasts, and online platforms, the audience for radio and TV broadcasts has been decreasing, making it harder for announcers to find and keep jobs. The BLS says the median annual wage for radio and TV announcers is about $32,000, but the number of radio and TV announcers in the U.S. is expected to decline by 14% by 2024.

These are just some of the jobs that one should avoid if possible, as they are likely to have fewer opportunities and lower incomes in the future. Of course, there may be exceptions and variations depending on the location, niche, and quality of the work. It is advisable to look for jobs that are more in demand, more stable, and more rewarding in the long run.

The Best Jobs

The best jobs are those that are growing or thriving due to innovation, development, demand, or potential. These jobs have more opportunities, higher incomes, and more security in the future. Here are some examples of such jobs:

• Software developer: Software developers create, test, and maintain software applications for various purposes, such as websites, mobile devices, games, or business systems. Software developers are in high demand as technology evolves and becomes more integrated into every aspect of life. The BLS says the median annual wage for software developers is about $103,000, and the number of software developers in the U.S. is projected to grow by 22% by 2024.
• Nurse practitioner: Nurse practitioners provide primary or specialty health care services to patients, such as diagnosing, treating, prescribing, and educating. Nurse practitioners have more autonomy and authority than registered nurses, and can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, or homes. Nurse practitioners are in high demand as the population ages and needs more health care services. The BLS says the median annual wage for nurse practitioners is about $107,000, and the number of nurse practitioners in the U.S. is projected to grow by 45% by 2024.
• Financial analyst: Financial analysts analyze financial data, trends, and markets, and provide advice and recommendations to clients, such as individuals, businesses, or governments. Financial analysts help clients make informed decisions about investments, savings, budgets, or policies. Financial analysts are in high demand as the economy grows and becomes more complex and globalized. The BLS says the median annual wage for financial analysts is about $81,000, and the number of financial analysts in the U.S. is projected to grow by 12% by 2024.

These are just some of the jobs that one should pursue if possible, as they are likely to have more opportunities and higher incomes in the future. Of course, there may be challenges and requirements to enter and succeed in these fields, such as education, training, skills, or experience. However, it is worthwhile to invest in one’s career development and seek jobs that are more fulfilling, more secure, and more profitable in the long run.