Perhaps you are introverted and are curious about the best career opportunities to suit your personality type.
To help identify the best careers for introverts, we asked self-proclaimed introverts to describe their career and why it suits them well.
Here’s what career options introverts had to offer.
Librarianship
It might seem cliche, but the librarianship field offers numerous career options for introverts. The stereotypical librarian is often seen as detail-oriented and creative, which is also true for the average introvert. Additionally, the way an introvert might navigate social interactions is surprisingly beneficial for librarianship. As a librarian, one must understand the patrons that they serve. The phrase often used in the field is “to put yourself in someone else’s shoes.” Introverts are quite adept at doing this thanks to their tendency to focus internally. This internal focus results in the introvert being self-aware, which also results in high empathy, especially in one-on-one interactions. Traits like this make librarianship a great fit for an introverted person. Plus, having a love for reading never hurts!
Tara Thompson, Markitors
Data and Information Technology
Although people typically think of introverts as shy and reserved, they can still be strong leaders in the workplace. I think introverts oftentimes make for the best analysts, engineers, and even content creators. As an introvert, I love working with data and information technology because it allows me to work independently and leverage my love of numbers.
JJ Hepp, Marketing and IT Manager, Arrow Lift
Engineering
Introverts are oftentimes some of the most creative and detail-oriented individuals. This makes them extremely effective in roles such as accounting, engineering, graphic design, and more! We have several introverts that work for us on pipeline services. It really depends on what their technical skills are and what they are passionate about doing.
Noah Downs, American Pipeline Solutions
Sales Managers
We have many different personalities on our staff, including a good mix of extroverts and introverts. We are in the business of portable air conditioning and heating. Our employees that are a little more introverted have taken on roles as administrative assistants, installers, and even sales managers! We have seen more introverted employees rise to the occasion and take on whatever task they are given. Introvert vs extrovert doesn’t matter nearly as much as hard work and the willingness to step up for the team.
Chris Dunkin, Portable Air
Case Managers
Introverts tend to be more comfortable with one-on-one interaction, and case management affords that opportunity. The primary responsibility of a case manager is to be an advocate for patients. Responsibilities range from helping patients identify and weigh options, to being of direct assistance by coordinating care with other providers. Case management can be a nice career option for introverts, as the work is rewarding and provides opportunities to excel.
Dan Reck, MATClinics
Digital Marketing Analyst
While I’m definitely an introvert and would much rather spend my time alone reading a book or knitting a sweater, I work in digital marketing. I spend my time on the more analytical side of marketing, which suits me well! Growing up, I was never a number or math person, but now I love looking at the results from a campaign and making sense of those numbers. I am able to translate these results for other people, helping them understand what worked and what didn’t, so we can make our next campaign even better. If you’re an introvert, it’s important to find a career you love, even if it involves more people than you’d choose to be around normally (don’t worry – you’ll still have evenings and weekends to recharge your introvert batteries!)
Jennifer Klemmetson, Radiall
Marketing Coordinator
As an introvert who is still a “people person”, I prefer observing, listening, and researching over tasks that are based on constant streams of interaction. I also know that I process ideas best on my own, in writing. This combination has made digital marketing a great fit for me. Good marketing requires building trust, educating the buyer, and making smart decisions based on data, all without being pushy or obtrusive. Not only do I get to do a lot of this work behind the scenes, but so much of marketing revolves around human behavior, psychology, and most importantly, connection. Even though much of my day is spent at a computer, I still get to interact with our clients and community in a very rewarding way that suits my personality well.
Amanda Mollindo, The Center for Entrepreneurial Innovation
Communication Coach
I’m an introvert forced to be an extrovert. People who know me would be surprised by that statement. I’ve spent most of my career in TV, I emcee events with thousands of people and I\’m a communication coach. But the reality is that I\’d rather not be in front of a crowd. At parties, I prefer to sit in the corner and watch. My advice is to find a job that forces you out of your introverted comfort zone. Don\’t let that part of your personality define who you are and what you can achieve. It’s like a muscle, the more you work it, the stronger it gets. That doesn’t mean it won\’t ache and cause pain, but you’re so much better because you stretched and grew.
Rick DeBruhl, Communication Consultant
CHRO
As the author of the Introvert’s Guide to Job Hunting, I explain that introversion is an asset and one that enables people to purposefully apply their energy. Introverts can be anything even rock stars, politicians, or public speakers. When you think CHRO you typically envision an extrovert, but my need to recharge actually ensures I balance the people/project equation and succeed on both fronts. Introversion is a superpower.
Tim Toterhi, Plotline Leadership
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