July 21, 2022 |
Do you feel drained after social interactions? Do you prefer to spend time alone rather than in a group setting? If so, you might be an introvert.
Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not necessarily shy or antisocial. They simply need more time alone than others to recharge their social battery. However, this means that some jobs aren’t well suited for those who are introverted.
With that in mind, the following guide will help you find a career that suits you best as an introvert.
If you’re introverted, then you’re likely someone who prefers solitary work or jobs with low social interaction. Introverts are not necessarily reclusive; they just need more time alone than others. In fact, many introverts thrive in social situations, however they rely heavily on extended periods of time by themselves to recharge.
Introverts and extroverts often have different working styles.
For introverts, jobs with little or no social interaction may be more ideal, as this can help prevent social exhaustion. Extroverts are energized by social interactions and prefer jobs that involve a lot of teamwork. As such, they tend to be well-suited for jobs that require a lot of social interaction, such as customer service or sales.
It’s important to note that neither introverts nor extroverts are better workers, they simply have different working styles and strengths. Introverts may just need more time alone in order to focus and complete tasks.
Hiring managers should be aware of these personality traits, and understand that it’s the job environment that dictates where extroverts and introverts can thrive. With that in mind, the following are some of the strengths that introverts can bring to a position.
As an introvert, you’re probably very good at listening. This is because introverts are used to spending time alone and don’t feel the need to fill every silence. It’s one of the reasons why introverts often make for good psychologists. They don’t feel the need to dominate a conversation and are able to listen to their patients more attentively.
While introverts may not be as vocal as extroverts in the workplace, they often make up for it with their reliability. Leaders can rely on introverted employees to complete tasks without a lot of supervision. In fact, many introverted employees thrive in jobs that require them to take the lead. Introverts are good at organizing and planning, and they prefer jobs with a lot of structure.
While introverts may not be as vocal as extroverts in the workplace, they are often good leaders. After all, leadership requires a lot more than just relaying orders and being vocal. Introverts are open-minded and caring, and they can be great at listening to others and taking their thoughts and concerns into account.
Introverts listen and think before they speak, and this can lead to more thoughtful and effective decision-making. As a result, employees often trust leaders who are more introverted.
If you’re an introvert, then you may have a lot of empathy, which can be beneficial in the workplace. Introverts are able to put themselves in other people’s shoes, so they are excellent at understanding the feelings and concerns of their clients or customers.
Additionally, introverts may be more likely to show concern for their coworkers and notice the issues or problems that they may be experiencing.
Extroverts are generally willing to socialize with everyone, while introverts often prefer to socialize with only those they feel a connection to. As a result, you may gravitate towards meaningful connections, even if that means fewer of them. These connections are often deeper and more productive than having many different casual connections.
Introverts are often self-critical. This is because they’re used to spending time alone and reflecting on their own thoughts and actions. As an introvert, this means that you could be excellent at identifying errors. This can be helpful in jobs that require a lot of attention to detail, such as writing or editing.
Considering the many strengths that an introvert can bring to the table, there are plenty of jobs that you may be perfectly suited for if you’re an introvert. The following are 20 of the best jobs for introverts, including salary and job outlook data (expected growth over the next decade) from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
An accountant is someone who is responsible for recording, analyzing, and verifying financial transactions. This job often requires a lot of focus and attention to detail, which introverts are usually good at.
Additionally, many introverts are self-critical and excellent at identifying errors, which is essential in accounting.
Content writers create and publish content for websites, blogs, and other media. They need to be able to write well and have strong research skills. This job requires a lot of independent work, making it perfect for introverts.
Editors review and edit written work for accuracy, clarity, and style. They need to be able to understand complex concepts and have strong editing skills. Similar to content writing, editing requires mostly independent work and, as such, is a great option for introverts.
A research scientist is someone who investigates scientific problems. They use their knowledge of science and mathematics to develop new products or processes. Research scientists need to be creative and think critically. They often work independently, making this job a great option for introverts.
Archivists preserve and organize records and documents. Librarians work in libraries to help people find the information they need. Both jobs are well-suited for introverts because they require patience and attention to detail. They also offer the opportunity to work with people one-on-one, which introverts often prefer.
There are several types of translating jobs. Personal translators are more suitable for extroverts. However, text or audio translation work is better suited for introverts. Translators convert written text or recorded audio from one language to another. They need to be able to understand both languages fluently and have strong writing skills. This job requires limited social interaction, making it a great option for introverts.
Paralegals help lawyers prepare for cases. They do a lot of research and gather information from various sources. Despite the fact that they do have to interact with lawyers, these jobs are well-suited for introverts because they require a lot of independent work.
Court recorders are responsible for recording court proceedings. They also need to be able to work independently and have good writing skills.
Architects design buildings and other structures. They need to be able to think creatively and have a strong attention to detail. Although they do need to work closely with clients, architects often have a lot of independence when it comes to the planning and execution of their work.
Artists create paintings, sculptures, and other pieces of art. Although extroverts can be artists as well, it’s particularly well suited for introverts because they can create their art on their own without having to interact with anyone.
Digital marketers develop and implement marketing plans using digital technologies. They need to be able to understand complex concepts and have strong writing and communication skills. Although digital marketers often work in teams, they also need to be able to work independently. The balance of social interaction and independence makes this job a great option for introverts.
An actuary is a business professional who specializes in the mathematical analysis of risk and uncertainty. Actuaries are responsible for calculating premiums and rates for insurance companies. It’s a good job for an introvert because it requires a lot of critical thinking and problem-solving.
A data analyst is someone who takes large amounts of data and transforms it into useful information. Some of the jobs a data analyst might do include identifying trends, developing marketing strategies, and improving business operations.
Data analysts need to be able to think critically and have strong problem-solving skills. Data analysis is well-suited for introverts since it allows them to work on projects with data and information independently.
Film and video editors assemble recorded footage into a finished product. They need to have strong editing skills, an understanding of storytelling, and be able to work under pressure. This job also allows for a lot of creativity and independence.
It’s worth noting that editors often work with a few people closely, including the director or producer of a project. The ability to foster strong professional relationships benefits introverts in this aspect. Additionally, editors spend a lot of time working on their own when editing projects.
Social media managers develop and implement social media marketing plans. They need to be able to understand complex concepts, have strong writing skills, and be familiar with various social media platforms. This job requires a lot of online interaction, but this is a lot different than in-person interactions. As such, it’s a position that many introverts can excel in.
Information technology managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. IT professionals are often in charge of installing, maintaining, and repairing computer systems (something that IT managers tend to oversee).
IT managers need to have strong communication and problem-solving skills. They often work with a team, but they also spend a lot of time working independently. This job is perfect for introverts who like to have some social interaction, but don’t want it to be their main focus. IT professionals require even less social interaction and generally focus more on computer-related work.
Software developers design, develop, and test software. They need to have in-depth knowledge of coding languages and software development tools. Although they do often work in teams, the job allows for a lot of independence, making it perfect for introverts.
Although these jobs all require in-depth social interactions with patients, they also offer a lot of independence. This is because the jobs require you to see patients for specific periods of time and then be able to work on your own for the rest of the day.
This is perfect for introverts who need time to recharge after periods of intense socialization. Not to mention that these jobs require a high level of empathy, which many introverts possess.
A medical records technician is responsible for organizing and maintaining medical records. They need to have strong organizational skills and be detail-oriented. This job does not require a whole lot of social interaction either, making it a great option for introverts.
Although mechanics do have to interact with customers, they spend a lot of time working on their own, troubleshooting and repairing issues. This can be a great job for introverts who like to work with their hands and have a strong understanding of how machines work.
Graphic designers create visual concepts for logos, websites, and other media. Web designers create the look and feel of websites. These jobs require a lot of time to be focused on the task at hand, making them perfect for introverts.
Many introverts have trouble engaging with people that they don’t know personally. As such, when it comes to job hunting, extroverts tend to have an edge as far as making a good first impression goes. If you’re an introvert, then the following are a few tips to keep in mind to help make your job hunt more successful:
Don’t try to be something you’re not. For example, if you’re an introvert who is great with details, look for jobs that require attention to detail. If you interview for a job that requires the qualifications and strengths you have, those things will stand out during the interview process regardless of whether you are introverted or not.
Don’t be modest when it comes to your resume, CV, or cover letter. Introverts often have a difficult time emphasizing their qualifications during the interview process, which is why they should be sure to do so on their resumes. That way, the employer will know what their qualifications are heading into the interview.
Extroverts tend to have an easier time during one-on-one interviews because they enjoy talking to people. Conversely, introverts may not be as comfortable during an interview. If you’re scheduled for an interview, you should prepare as much as possible.
Ask someone to run through some general interview questions with you so that you can answer them out loud. Practice can help you be better prepared and can help reduce some of the nerves you might be feeling leading up to a job interview.
Listening to the interviewer and what they have to say is critical to figuring out how to respond. Many introverts are excellent listeners, which is a strength that can be leveraged in an interview. By being a good listener, you can better understand what the interviewer is looking for and how you can give them what they want.
Introverts tend to be their own worst critic. If you don’t get the job, it’s not the end of the world. Just learn from the experience and move on. Don’t let yourself get down on yourself; after all, you’re only human.
As with everyone, introverts need to find jobs that suit their personality and their strengths, such as being detail-oriented or a good listener. Introverts need jobs that allow them the time and space to recharge their social batteries.
Positions that require a lot of social interaction can be draining for introverts, so choosing a job where they can work independently in a quiet workspace environment is usually preferred. With a job like that, an introvert is more likely to succeed and thrive.
Looking for a job that resonates with you, your personality, and qualifications?
Make a great first impression at your next job interview.
BROWSE OUR JOB BOARD TODAY!
