Looking to take your career to next level or start a new one, then picking up some digital skills might be the way to go.
You don’t need to head back to college for that.
There is a ton of stuff you can learn online like SEO, coding, design and writing that can bolster your resume.
And guess what? A lot of these skills can be picked up for free.
With businesses going digital and even using AI, having some tech-savvy can really make you stand out.
There is a growing demand for folks who know their way around digital marketing, content creation and IT.
So if you are game, diving into these skills could set you up for some exciting opportunities and not just for jobs but for your personal projects too.
Let’s get started.
15 Best Digital Skills to Learn at Home
1. Web and app development
Web and app development is a basic need of our digital world.
Developers are using programming languages like JavaScript, PHP, SQL, CSS, HTML and Python to build and maintain websites and apps.
These skills are not just in demand; they are essential for the smooth operation of the internet and our digital lives.
In the US, web developers earn an average salary of $82,150 per year, which reflects the value of their skills in today’s tech-driven economy.
2. Data Analytics
Data analytics is about making sense of vast amounts of data and telling compelling stories with it.
This skill is important for translating complex data into actionable insights.
The average salary for a Data Analyst in the US is $83,000 per year, showing the high value placed on this ability to interpret and communicate data.
Programs like Grow with Google offer pathways to enter this field, emphasizing its growing importance.
3. Graphic Designing
Graphic design shapes our online experiences, influencing everything from user engagement to brand loyalty.
This visual communication skill is highly valued, with graphic designers in the US earning an average salary of $60,000.
The ability to convey messages visually is more important than ever in our image-centric online world.
4. Mastering SEO
SEO specialists play an important role in making content discoverable online.
They optimize content to rank well in search engine results, a vital skill in a content-saturated digital landscape.
With an average salary of $65,000 in the US, SEO expertise are recognized as essential for online visibility and success.
5. Project Management Skills
Project managers are the backbone of successful digital projects, responsible for leading teams, managing resources and ensuring project success.
Their skills are rewarded with an average salary of $88,000 in the US. Certifications, like those offered by Grow with Google, can open doors to this rewarding career.
6. UX Design
UX designers focus on making products enjoyable and accessible, a critical role in today’s product-driven markets.
With an average salary of $105,172 in the US, UX design is not only in-demand but also well-compensated, reflecting its impact on product success.
7. Cybersecurity
As digital threats evolve, the demand for cybersecurity professionals skyrockets.
With 3.5 million job openings globally and a projected 35% job growth, this field offers both security and high compensation, with an average salary of $149,000 in the US.
It’s a clear call to action for those interested in protecting digital assets.
8. Search Engine Marketing (SEM)
Search Engine Marketing (SEM) stands out as a key strategy in the digital marketing toolkit, enabling businesses to enhance their online presence through paid advertising.
With the majority of internet users turning to search engines for shopping, SEM expertise can significantly boost a company’s visibility.
This field has seen a surge, especially during the shift towards e-commerce prompted by recent global events, making SEM skills highly sought after.
SEM specialists in the US can expect to earn an average salary of $78,245.
9. AI and Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are transforming industries by automating processes, enhancing decision-making and driving innovation.
Professionals in this field are in high demand, given their ability to leverage technology to create intelligent systems.
The lucrative nature of this specialization is reflected in the average salary of $155,143 for Machine Learning Engineers in the US, plus significant additional cash compensation.
10. Content Marketing
Content remains central to digital marketing, with various formats like blogs, videos and social media playing pivotal roles in engaging audiences.
The essence of content marketing lies in creating relevant, keyword-optimized material that drives brand awareness and positions brands as industry leaders.
This skill set is essential for anyone looking to carve out a career in the digital domain.
11. Email Marketing
Email marketing continues to be a potent tool for customer engagement and retention. Its effectiveness
lies in its direct approach and the enduring nature of email as a communication channel.
Digital marketers who can craft compelling email campaigns that guide users through the sales funnel are in high demand, proving that email is far from outdated.
12. Pay-Per-Click (PPC)
Pay-Per-Click (PPC) marketing offers a fast track to visibility on search engines, with platforms like Google AdWords facilitating targeted advertising.
The ability to convert web traffic efficiently, as evidenced by high conversion rates among top performers, makes PPC skills invaluable for digital marketers focused on customer acquisition.
13. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing expertise is important for leveraging the cloud’s scalable and flexible infrastructure.
Professionals in this field command salaries over 50% higher than the average, due to their role in optimizing operations across various sectors, from healthcare to tech startups.
Their work ensures efficient data storage, processing and accessibility, aligning with dynamic business needs.
14. Video Editing
In the content-driven online world, video editing is essential for producing engaging visual content.
Editors who can transform raw footage into polished narratives are key for capturing audience attention, with skills in software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro being particularly valuable.
15. Social media management
Social media management is important for brands aiming to maximize their online presence and engage effectively with their audience.
Managers are tasked with developing strategies, creating content and analyzing performance across platforms, ensuring impactful interactions and sustained brand visibility.
These digital skills will enhance your resume and will help you in getting a high paying job.
* All the salary details are approximate for 2024.
