Introversion, as a subject, has been increasingly making its way into conversations, especially in the employment world. It is primarily because many people have noticed that introverts find it hard to navigate the employment seeking process. And in addition to that, they face significant challenges when developing their careers.
Susan Cain, in her bestseller “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking”, notes that in the western countries of the world, the perfect person is social, alpha, and relaxed in the spotlight. This issue calls for our attention since an introvert will find it quite challenging to display all these desired qualities in the workplace. An introvert would rather limit their socializing, stay unseen if necessary, and be away from any unwarranted attention.
Now, the typical introvert is reserved, therefore, they will go for a solitary occupation on any day. This way, they’ll spend their day handling job responsibilities and not interacting with others. So, if you are one of them, below is a comprehensive list of career choices for introverts based on introvert type. But before delving into jobs for antisocial people, let us look at the different types of introverts.
What Type of Introvert Are You?
Identifying the kind of introvert that you are is crucial in determining the right jobs for loners. According to Jonathan Cheek, a psychologist, and his collaborators, there are four types of introverts, namely:
The Social Introvert
This type is the most proximate to the basic definition of an introvert. While there are some common traits for introverts, people under this category prefer to socialize in smaller gatherings as opposed to large ones.
Nonetheless, those under this classification are not meek or anxious socially. Instead, they fancy environments that do not need them to cooperate with or meet many individuals at a go. If it is possible, this kind of introvert will prefer handling responsibilities that require their sole input.
The Thinking Introvert
The thinking introvert, unlike the former type, does not mind socializing. Rather, they are very thoughtful, reflect on themselves, and have way more nourished inner lives. It is quite easy to mistake this sort of introvert for an extravert on the first impression. Nonetheless, they often get caught up in their internal worlds of fantasy and are known to be exceedingly imaginative and ingenious.
The Restrained Introvert
The restrained introvert, on the other hand, is a person that is aloof and laid-back. Most of the time, people in this category tend to put a lot of thought into something before they voice their opinion. Apart from that, they always seem to do things at a way slower pace than others. They require some time to get going and will only get into action after they have been warmed up sufficiently.
The Anxious Introvert
An anxious introvert is one who often prefers solitary environments. They do this because they tend to feel awkward when in the company of others and are very self-conscious. Also, most of the time, this type of introvert is not confident in his/her socializing capabilities. It is common for them to ponder about past occasions to scrutinize how they acted or behaved.
50 Best Jobs for Introverts of Each Introvert Group
Different types of introverts are suited to different jobs. While, one category of introverts may excel in a particular role, another might not find satisfaction in it. So, what are the best jobs for introverts in each classification? We’ve taken into account preferences for each group to compile this list of over fifty good jobs for introverts.
Best Thinking Introvert Jobs
Thinking introverts are likely to get the most fulfillment from jobs that demand creativity and the ability to innovate. Therefore, if you are a thinking introvert, you would want to look for roles that involve coming up with new solutions and ideas. Some fields that would suit you well include designing, engineering, tech, and art. Here are some examples of creative careers for introverts:
- Copywriter
- Environmental engineer
- Software developer
- Computer programmer
- Video game developer
- Interior designer
- Web developer
- Social media manager
- Graphic designer
- Interior designer
- Civil engineer
- Aerospace engineer
- Industrial engineer
Excellent Anxious Introvert Jobs
Anxious introverts generally like to be alone and feel awkward when they are around people. However, they shine in projects and jobs that need attention to detail. And since they tend to worry about things that have happened or are likely to happen, they are great planners for worst-possible eventualities. An anxious introvert can also handle stressful jobs, as long as they don’t involve being in social situations. Among the responsibilities that this category of introverts can handle best are critical and detail-oriented tasks. Examples of these jobs include:
- Auditor
- Accountant
- Statistician
- Technical writer
- Medical laboratory technician
- Proofreader
- Aircraft mechanic
- Archivist
- Auto mechanic
- Audio engineering technician
- Financial analyst
- Night security guard
- Researcher
Best Social Introvert Jobs
Unlike anxious introverts, social introverts are not shy around large groups of people. They also don’t get anxious in social settings. A social introvert just prefers to be alone. Individuals in this category should prioritize the work environment when looking for a job. Work environments that fit well with social introvert are those that are not crowded or noisy. Work-from-home jobs seem to align well with this type of personalities.
However, these introverts have more options than other categories. That’s because most factors that dictate the job such persons can do, depend on individual company culture rather than the specific careers. Examples of jobs for introverts of this type include:
- Animal trainer
- Plumber
- Translator or interpreter
- Private chef
- Database administrator
- Commercial or truck driver
- Private investigator
- Heavy equipment operator
- Computer administrator
- Mechanical drafter
- Baker
- Mechanic
- Welder
- Dental lab technician
- Carpenter
Great Restrained Introvert Jobs
A restrained introvert is usually very reserved. This group of introverts tend to think before talking and do not instantly react when making decisions or taking action. If you belong here, you will find that you think a lot about the consequences of doing something before you actually do it. You are also observant and can see the bigger picture when most people can’t.
These introverts are slow to starting something but don’t stop when they do. Therefore, they can excel in positions that require continued effort for a long period. Also, people in this group do not shy away from hard questions and challenges. That’s why if you are this type of introvert, you will fit well in careers to do with counseling, sciences, and academia. Examples of best jobs for introverts in this category are:
- Creative writer
- Geoscientist
- Microbiologist
- Marketing specialist
- Archeologist
- Anthropologist
- Career counselor
- Wildlife biologist
- Mental health counselor
- Marriage therapist
- Biochemist
- Personal finance advisor
- Astronomer
- Physicist
As you can see, there are dozens of jobs for introverts. There is no reason to stick to some of the worst jobs for introverts as you can make a successful career from one of the options above. However, it is impossible to mention every job that can suit introverts in each of the four groups. So, don’t restrict yourself to the above options only. Identify your passion, strengths, hobbies, and interests, and then look for jobs that align well with what you have to offer.
