Economist
Behavourial economists found that people would be more likely to buy bubble gum if they had 6 rather than 24 options.
06 · Qualifications & training you need
A relevant university degree is essential. A postgraduate qualification is needed for higher-level positions.
Where people train for this
02 · What the work involves
Economists study the use, organisation and distribution of the world’s resources. The field of investigation is very wide, but may include the study of such topics as the reasons for balance of payments crises, the effects of different forms of taxation, international trade or business economics. Economics is not a precise science; it is only possible to forecast the degrees of probability of a particular economic model having certain results. The Government Economic Service (GES) is the largest employer of professional economists in the UK, with nearly 600 people working in 30 government departments and agencies. Economists also work in industry, teaching and research, banking and stock- broking, journalism, international organisations and independent consultancies. Their primary task is to give advice on the probable consequences of a course of action: for example, they might advise a company on the effects of a rise in the price of its products. Economists are also concerned with collecting data, preparing reports, and, to an increasing extent, with building complex mathematical models.
03 · Education pathway
Social science, psychology, counselling, social work or related education; regulated practice requires jurisdictional credentials.
09 · Personal qualities and skills
Driving in traffic demands a calm, unflappable personality, with lots of patience. Drivers also need to have a good memory. In addition, a taxi driver must be ‘of good character’, as a licence will not be granted to anyone who has committed certain offences.
04 · Lifestyle
Economists typically keep regular office hours, although preparing for conferences or writing for publications may demand extra work.
04 · Location
Economists typically work in an office, with some from home, but travel may be required to present findings or meet clients.
21 · The realities
Economists need to be motivated to carry out independent research and are expected to learn new skills throughout their career.
20 · Salary guide
Almost all taxi drivers are self-employed and have to pay tax and National Insurance out of their earnings. Owner-drivers generally earn more than drivers employed by a company (who are often on a fixed rate), although they must also finance the repairs and servicing costs incurred by their own vehicles. Average earnings are around £14,000. Local taxi companies Licensed Taxi Drivers Association,