I'm a lawyer, so obviously reading is an important part of my job, but besides actual legal knowledge, being an avid reader has helped in all kinds of ways. I'm actually not a big non-fiction person, but I read all kinds of novels ranging from science fiction and fantasy to historical fiction and crime thrillers. Reading improves things like vocabulary, grammar, spelling, etc., but I think the biggest benefit is that it makes it easier to connect with people, and not necessarily just by talking about books. Reading exposes you to places, events, cultures, and ideas that gives you a wider base to draw from when trying to find common ground. Connecting with people will be helpful in any career path. Years ago I had a law clerk who I noticed had a Dark Tower quote in his cubicle. We bonded nerding out about Stephen King. He went on to become an influential person in my field, and to this day we will chat when we see each other and help each other out when we can.