Why are some data scientists paid unusually higher than the others?

Data Scientist are also “artists” in making the best use of data. In practical scenario, it is the out of box thinking that thrives, but bounded by a well structured and disciplined approach.

Let me take the analogy of a play back singer (bollywood). Someone who manages to reach there, definitely has the capability to sing well, but also has a subtle art of adding emotions and expressions to the plain textual lyrics. While it’s relatively easy to copy a song sung by someone, it’s harder to sing with emotions that has plain text. This is why they are paid much higher than the street singers. Street singers have to work hard to reach that level. Of course there’s an element of luck and opportunity exposure.

So what can you do?

  1. Make your network strong. What you earn in first 5 years is insignificant, but gain contacts in higher management. They will pull you up as they also switch. This is also the “luck” part.
  2. Try to do more real life projects and solve real problems than just theoretical concepts.