Who doesn’t dream of controlling their own destiny? Charting their own course? Well, coding is the skill to get you there. You can code from home. You can code alone. You can code on a team. You can code your dreams. When you learn coding, you open doors and give yourself options. Don’t believe me? Here are three ways you can code your way to the future you dream of.
- The Power to Negotiate
When you possess the number one most sought after skill on Computerworld’s “10 Hottest Tech Skills for 2017” list, you are a hot commodity. Being in high demand gives you the leverage you need to negotiate what you want out of a job. Did you know that according to San Antonio Coding Academy, an entry level coder can expect an average salary of $64,000.00! Better salary, longer vacation, nicer office? What do you want out of your career? Leverage your unique skill set to take control of your career path. Leave nothing on the table and give yourself every advantage when brokering your future.
- Flexible Scheduling
Coding offers a unique opportunity to set your own schedule by working remotely. When your skill set can be exercised from any computer anywhere, the possibilities are endless. Trying to balance work and family? Need time to travel and explore? Work around your schedule instead of scheduling around your work. In this day and age, a flexible schedule is one of the most sought after benefits amongst millennials. In fact, in a recent study by Bentley University, 77% feel that flexible work hours would increase productivity! Employers see that and they are responding. More and more companies are offering flextime and telecommuting opportunities if you have the right skills (i.e. CODING). Whether you specifically seek out a position that offers this flexibility or you negotiate that caveat with your existing employer, gaining some flexibility with your time is a great way to leverage your coding skills to realize the future you dream of.
- Freelancing
Perhaps you want the total freedom of being your own boss. Freelancing is the perfect opportunity to start your own business utilizing your skills on your own terms. Many small businesses relish the idea of outsourcing a development project since many don’t have the resources or need to keep a developer on staff full time. It’s less expensive and more efficient for these companies to work with an independent contractor. With so many resources to help get you started these days, you can even begin your freelancing career as a side hustle and grow into a full-time business. Just remember, once you take this leap, to keep careful records and get your contracts in writing!
So, what are you waiting for? Carpe diem! Nobody has ever gained freedom without some action, some risk, some drive. It will take some hard work and you will probably even fall a few times but, don’t be afraid to reach out and take the future by the horns. You have the skills and the desire. Now get to work!