Both introverts and extroverts can be successful in a variety of professional
careers. However, individuals with introverted personality traits might be
drawn to certain careers more than others.
Defining introversion
Being introverted is extremely common with one third to half of the total U.S. population identifying as such. According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, introversion is defined as the “orientation toward the internal private world of one’s self and one’s inner thoughts and feelings.”
Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not necessarily soft-spoken, shy, and always avoiding social interaction. In fact, introverted people can have fantastic interpersonal skills. The primary difference between introverts and extroverts revolves around what makes you feel energized. For example, extroverts tend to feel energized by being in group settings in a more stimulating environment. Comparatively, introverts gain energy by being alone in a less stimulating environment.
Job searching as an introvert
Every job requires different skillsets. Often times, job duties might cater to specific personality types. Although introverts can be very successful in a “traditionally” extroverted role (such as sales, for example), introverts will likely be happier and more satisfied in a position that plays to their strengths. According to Indeed, the best jobs for introverts are positions that:
Prioritize independent work
Offer quiet, private workspaces
Are best completed by individuals with exceptional active listening skills
Involve individual interactions rather than public speaking
The best careers for introverts
There are many professions that introverts can excel in! Below are
some of the best careers for introverts:
Accountant
Landscape Designer
Archivist
Translator
Chef
Content Manager
Editor (writing, film)
Graphic Designer
Animal Care (trainer, attendant groomer, vet tech)
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Watch Susan Cain’s TedTalk, “The Power of Introverts” here. As you are watching the video, take notes and do some self-reflection (see action step #2 below).
2
Do some self-reflection
Familiarize yourself with your strengths and what makes you happiest. What energizes you? Overwhelms you? Ask yourself what kind of career will best suit you based on your goals and personality.
3
Keep an open mind
Don’t get discouraged or dismiss a career if there are job duties that are outside of your comfort zone. Remember, just because you do not enjoy being the center of attention does not mean you don’t have the interpersonal skills to be successful in a role that requires them.
4
Talk to a career coach
Career coaches are a fantastic resource and are widely available! You can find career coaches near you by using the Profinder in LinkedIn.
5
Read more on this topic
You can learn more about the best careers for introverts by reading the following articles, reviewed to be the best by our professionals: 15 Best Jobs for Introverts by Indeed.com, The 10 Best Careers for Introverts by The Balance, and 15 Great Jobs for Introverts by Business News Daily.
About the Author
Dr. Alyssa Harmon-Salter
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Alyssa holds an Ed. D. in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. For the last 7 years, she has mentored hundreds of college students on how to be successful academically and in prepping for a job. Full Bio | All Articles | LinkedIn
Shorter Version
Est. Reading Time: 1 Minute
While some people are energized by social interaction, others are fueled by alone time. Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, states: “Solitude matters and for some people, it is the air that they breathe.”
Both introverts and extroverts can be successful in a variety of professional careers. However, individuals with introverted personality traits might be drawn to certain careers more than others.
Defining introversion
Being introverted is extremely common with one third to half of the total U.S. population identifying as such. According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, introversion is defined as the “orientation toward the internal private world of one’s self and one’s inner thoughts and feelings.”
Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not necessarily soft-spoken, shy, and always avoiding social interaction. In fact, introverted people can have fantastic interpersonal skills. The primary difference between introverts and extroverts revolves around what makes you feel energized. For example, extroverts tend to feel energized by being in group settings in a more stimulating environment. Comparatively, introverts gain energy by being alone in a less stimulating environment.
Job searching as an introvert
Every job requires different skillsets. Often times, job duties might cater to specific personality types. Although introverts can be very successful in a “traditionally” extroverted role (such as sales, for example), introverts will likely be happier and more satisfied in a position that plays to their strengths. According to Indeed, the best jobs for introverts are positions that:
The best careers for introverts
There are many professions that introverts can excel in! Below are some of the best careers for introverts:
We Recommend Resumeble!
Our paid sponsor Resumeble will help you land your dream job! With expert writers, a 1-1 approach, and an interview guarantee, they are here to help you. Join the 12,500+ others that have used Resumeble and had 100% success securing an interview.
Use code “orderfirst” now to get a special discount on your first order!
Actionable Steps
Grab the popcorn
Watch Susan Cain’s TedTalk, “The Power of Introverts” here. As you are watching the video, take notes and do some self-reflection (see action step #2 below).
Do some self-reflection
Familiarize yourself with your strengths and what makes you happiest. What energizes you? Overwhelms you? Ask yourself what kind of career will best suit you based on your goals and personality.
Keep an open mind
Don’t get discouraged or dismiss a career if there are job duties that are outside of your comfort zone. Remember, just because you do not enjoy being the center of attention does not mean you don’t have the interpersonal skills to be successful in a role that requires them.
Talk to a career coach
Career coaches are a fantastic resource and are widely available! You can find career coaches near you by using the Profinder in LinkedIn.
Read more on this topic
You can learn more about the best careers for introverts by reading the following articles, reviewed to be the best by our professionals: 15 Best Jobs for Introverts by Indeed.com, The 10 Best Careers for Introverts by The Balance, and 15 Great Jobs for Introverts by Business News Daily.
About the Author
Dr. Alyssa Harmon-Salter
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Alyssa holds an Ed. D. in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. For the last 7 years, she has mentored hundreds of college students on how to be successful academically and in prepping for a job.
Full Bio | All Articles | LinkedIn