Are you a social worker looking for a new career? Do you want one that allows you to continue making a meaningful impact? Social work is an important job that helps the community, but it can be financially stifling with a median pay of around $50,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Social workers have a unique blend of qualities that can easily cross over into other industries and prove lucrative in business. Let’s take a look at some new career options you may have as a former social worker.

Exploring Alternative Careers for Social Workers

For people across any business, but especially social work, it’s not uncommon for workers to reach a point where they feel the need for a fresh start. It is possible to find a career change that still harnesses your strengths and passions for helping others. Social workers usually have great communication, empathy, problem-solving, and advocacy skills, which can translate over into many jobs like social work that pay better.

1. School and Career Counselors

The BLS lists school and career counselors as similar jobs to social work. School counselors help students with academic and social growth, while career counselors help adults find employment and choose a career path. There could be a bump in pay, but likely a small one. According to the BLS, school and career counselors make around $60,000 per year.  Nearly half of school and career counselors in the U.S. work in elementary and secondary schools according to BLS data.  These positions may require additional education such as a master’s degree in counseling.

2. Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

Another career that can have a seamless transition from social work is a probation officer. These folks help rehabilitate law offenders who are on parole, on probation, or in custody. These positions work with many vulnerable populations and can also be rewarding, making it one of the alternative careers for social workers. However, it can be a dangerous field as you may need to work in high-crime areas. Again, there is a median salary more than social work, but only slightly with a median pay of about $60,000 annually according to the BLS. In addition, the job outlook shows there is limited employment growth for probation officers or correctional treatment specialists through 2031. Typically, a bachelor’s degree is required.

3. Psychologists

A compassionate social worker who loves to help people could thrive as a psychologist. Psychologists study human behavior, thoughts, emotions, and mental processes. Some work independently with their own clinic, while others are on board at offices or school settings. The BLS reports the median yearly salary for psychologists is about $81,000, so certainly one of the jobs like social work that pay better. The job outlook is good, with an approximate 6% growth through 2031 according to BLS data. However, you’ll need significant education, which can be costly. Typically, psychologists need a doctoral degree, along with an internship or residency and a license. This can vary from state to state and between institutions.

4. In-Home Care Franchisee

One of the alternative careers for social workers that might not immediately come to mind is owning an in-home care franchise. With a caring and compassionate background, a former social worker could thrive as an in-home care franchise owner. Why set your sights on always working for someone else or needing more degrees? The in-home care industry values your background in social work. As a social worker, you have to connect with individuals and understand their unique needs. Being an in-home care franchise owner is no different, as you’ll need to discover what clients need and how to tailor care services to them.

The demand for in-home care is significant. As the baby boomer generation ages, many will need various levels of assistance. Keeping the dignity of the close to 72 million estimated senior citizens in the U.S. by 2025 is a main goal of any home care company. Social work skills are not only transferable but highly desirable for creating a positive impact in the lives of seniors and their families. The in-home care industry can be one of the best alternative careers for social workers.

At CareBuilders at Home, the average annual gross revenue we see is more than $1.4 million, with a median annual gross revenue of more than $1.5 million. See our complete and most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for more details.

Why Choose CareBuilders at Home?

Franchising with CareBuilders at Home is one of the best alternatives for social workers looking for careers that align with their values. As a franchisee, you get to own a legacy of your own while still having the backing of an established business. You’ll benefit from our comprehensive training, ongoing support, and a proven business model that thrives on your ability to connect, empathize, and provide quality care. We’re looking for compassionate, hard-working franchisees who want to make a difference in their communities.

Your investment with CareBuilders at Home can be a lucrative business move. With a $49,500 initial franchise fee and a total investment range from $115,200-$168,800, you can own your own business and protected territory. We painstakingly look at many details to ensure a CareBuilders at Home franchise can thrive in an area. We look at demographics, area household income, and ensure there are at least 35,000 senior citizens to serve, among a multitude of other factors to find the perfect market.

Take the first step toward a new rewarding career by exploring CareBuilders at Home’s franchise opportunities. Request information today.