There are approximately 180,000 charities in the UK today, employing around 778,000 paid workers. While some are major organisations with big budgets, more than 80% are small concerns with an annual income of less than £100,000. Whether you're hoping to land a graduate role in an international organisation or find work in a local charity, competition for paid employment in the sector is fierce. 'The charity sector needs specific skills, knowledge and expertise, yet the sector also needs people who have realistic expectations of what it takes to work and succeed in its not-for-profit organisations,' says career coach Ruth Winden of Careers Enhanced. 'Charities are about making a difference, and attract individuals with the same motivation and sets of values. But there is a lot more to charities. Many people are unaware how commercially driven charities have to be these days to survive, how long working hours can be, and how much hard work it is – often (but not always) for less pay a...

Who hasn't dreamed of becoming a best-selling author, professional footballer, an astronaut or a rock star? While these may be out of reach, there are other slightly more accessible dream jobs that will make you the envy of all your friends. See if any of these inspire you…Voice over artist Have you ever given a thought to who provides the gravelly-toned voice on movie trailers – or who creates the sound effects on computer games or talks on radio and TV ads? Voice-over artists are paid to bring a script to life with their voice – which could be a serious tone for a home learning video or the squeaky high-pitched giggle of a cartoon character.Some voice-over artists come from a drama background, but qualifications aren't necessary. If you have a versatile voice with a good range, try approaching agencies such as The Showreel who can help you put together a professional demo and offer coaching and courses. Once you've got your reel, the next step is to approach TV production companie...

Some people dread the prospect of arguments at work and do their best to avoid them, but for others there's no greater thrill than successfully arguing their case or winning a debate. If you're outspoken, confident, and can stay calm in a conflict, we've found five jobs that might just suit you.BarristerThe film and TV portrayal of lawyers giving bombastic speeches in tense courtroom face-offs may be a stereotypical exaggeration, but the adversarial nature of the law makes it suited to those with good communication and advocacy skills who are confident at public speaking. Strong analytical skills are a key attribute for barristers, who specialise in representing people and companies in court. As well as actually appearing in court they must advise clients and evaluate their cases, devise legal arguments and negotiate settlements.Qualifications required: Those wishing to enter the heavily regulated profession must either achieve an approved law degree at 2:2 or above – or can take ei...

We often know much about careers that are well-paid and in demand. CareerBuilder recently reported about the best paying careers in Britain, but do we ever wonder what the mostly overlooked jobs are like and what they pay? We found this light-hearted article on money.co.uk "How much do Astronauts get paid". It investigates into the salaries of some of the country's most overlooked careers and professions such as Priests, Astronauts, Poets and many more. Are you curious about the pros and cons of each profession? Then read on. Priests Clergy pay really depends on their denomination (the branch of religion they preach for), but for the most part priests receive a salary as well as having their rent and utility bills paid for by the church. Average Salary of a Priest: £4,000 to £7,000 a year Career Advancement: Room for promotion (higher position within church or larger congregation).Job Requirements: Dependent on denomination Danger Factor: Nearly non-existent Pros: Free house plus al...

We recently told you the best job for party addicts. We are now exploring the best jobs for those of you that are less into the party.Introverted and quiet people aren't as rare as often thought. Approximately half of the people tend to be introverted, while the other half is extroverted. The latter simply stand out much more – which often proves to be an advantage on the job.People who tend to be introverted have great strengths, which are often overlooked: They are good listeners, they can concentrate very well and they are able to think analytically. Strengths like these are an advantage in many positions and no matter which industry you consider, companies are eager for self-starters who are able to work independently.Here are some examples of typical jobs, where introverts can really shine.Software developer Analytical in nature, most software developers enjoy the opportunity to figure out complicated solutions on their own. The option to work on a consulting basis is another p...

Every year the Office for National Statistics (ONS) looks closely at who earns what in which industries, occupations and regions.According to the results of the 2010 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), company directors and chief executives continue to dominate the number one spot of the highest paid jobs with an average salary of £151,046 per year — approximately 13 per cent lower than in 2009.The survey covers the average pay for full-time workers from around 300 trades and professions. The most current numbers also revealed that the average weekly pay for UK employees grew by 2.1 per cent in the year to April 2010 to reach £499 per week.These are currently 10 of the highest paying jobs in the UK.Directors and Chief Executives What they do*: Directors and CEOs are responsible for a company's overall performance and answerable to its share-holders. How to get there: The likes of Sir Richard Branson and Sir Alan Sugar are in the minority of UK chief executives, with the majo...

The results of the 2007 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) have revealed the official figures for the UK's highest and lowest paid jobs. And, for the umpteenth year on the run, company directors and chief executives continue to dominate the number one spot with an average salary of £212,910 per year – an increase of 30 per cent since 2006. Remarkably, this is 20 times the amount earned by library assistants – the unwilling holders of the worst-paid job award earning on average £10,749.The survey, which was conducted by the Office of National Statistics, covers the average pay for full-time workers from around 300 trades and professions. And, last years survey also revealed that the average weekly pay for UK employees grew by 2.9 per cent year-on-year to reach £457 per week.Here are the UK's top 10 best paid jobs.1. Directors and Chief ExecutivesDirectors and CEOs are responsible for a company's overall performance and answerable to its share-holders.Entry requirements: The l...