Career paths are changing across the world so fast, and people who aren’t on top of their game get left out. While we all know about the growth and importance of the digital space in today’s economy, there are still some  unconventional opportunities out there for you to explore and make money from. These industries have their own high impact and earning potential they provide to those who try it out.

So here are ten 10 non-conventional jobs you should know about today;

1. Professional Organizer

People get busy and life does get hard from time to time. And Professional organizers exist to create orderliness out of clutter. What they do isn’t limited to folding clothes or putting away hoarded dishes. They also design systems for homes, offices, and even digital spaces, to maximize the flow in the place and help these clients save time and reduce stress. Professional organisers are definitely sought after since the rise of minimalism and wellness culture, and amongst other busy professionals and businesses looking to optimize productivity.

2. Movie Test Screener

Before a film reaches cinemas or streaming platforms, it often goes through test screenings. Where a test audience is brought in to provide feedback on story flow, characters, and overall impact. Although it’s a behind the scenes career, this role is a critical part of the movie/entertainment industry, and you should absolutely try it out.

3. Ethical Hacker

Hackers are mostly known as the bad guys who engage in criminal activity. What many do not know is the existence of “white-hat hackers,” who are trained professionals, employed to test, strengthen digital security systems, and help organizations identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them. Ethical hacking is gaining recognition along with other careers like data security.

4. Drone Pilot

Ever since drones became a thing, more people have picked up a licensed career as drone pilots. Their role is to provide aerial perspectives for industries ranging from film and real estate to agriculture and security, and flying drone shows, an alternative to loud and noisy fireworks. Drones Pilot perform everyday tasks that may involve capturing cinematic footage, conducting land surveys, or monitoring crop health.

5. Food Stylist

Food stylists aren’t chefs or line cooks, they are normally a part of the menu curation process at restaurants or working together with food brands out there. Their role typically combines artistry with technical skill to make food look appealing for advertising, television, digital media, and plating at high-end restaurants. Food stylists exist in a specialized role that supports both culinary and marketing industries.

6. AI Artist

Being an artist used to be a hard feat to achieve, and involved years and years of mastery. Although controversial now, artificial intelligence is creating space for people to redefine creative work. “AI artists” are now leveraging generative tools to produce their own versions of digital art, installations, and interactive projects. This role shows what lengths technology can expand to imitate human expression.

7. NFT Designer

NFT designers exist in the same digital space as AI artists, although their jobs are way more than just using generative tools. They design their own digital collectibles, virtual fashion, and other branded assets that can be sold or traded online. NFTs hype has fluctuated over time, but there are still more people in the crypto, e-commerce platforms and tech spaces, who still value it. 

8. E-Sports Management

Competitive gaming has evolved into a global industry, now requiring players, teams and play seasons. This has simultaneously created the need for managers, coaches, and strategists to coordinate sponsorships, logistics in this digital competition. 

9. Rental Companion (Girlfriend/Boyfriend Services)

In certain countries, hiring professional companions is the in thing. Their purpose is to provide companionship for social events, family functions, or romantic dates. Ultimately they are there to give social support and boost their confidence in specific situations. While unconventional, the practice has changed the attitude around relationships and emotional well-being.

10. Professional Mourner

This is an old practice rooted in centuries-old traditions but still a need today. Professional mourners are hired to attend funerals and publicly express grief. In some cultures like the Akans in Ghana, and even in Asia and the Middle East, their presence is considered a mark of respect and a way to honor the deceased. Ultimately they add a layer of performance and emotional service, and get paid for it.

Non-conventional careers highlight the diversity of modern employment. They give us the reminders that making money can take many forms and not just the traditional 9-5 hustle.

Which of these un-conventional jobs would you love to try? Drop a comment