Best Careers for Introverts and Extroverts

Are you an introvert or an extrovert personality? Do you like working in quiet, calm working spaces on independent projects, or do you prefer thinking and talking aloud, brainstorming in teams and interacting with diverse groups of people? Depending on your personality type, we’ve made a list of suggestions for the best careers to suit you, plus details of the kind of degrees you need to get a head start.

Best careers for introverts

Introverts tend to be shy and reserved, enjoying long periods of solitary work in relaxed working environments. They like to observe and think thoroughly before making a decision, while independency and flexibility are two essential factors that enable them to function in their workplace. Finally, they prefer limited interaction with other people, and may prefer to keep workplace discussions focused solely on work issues rather than personal life. So, what are the best careers for introverts to choose?

Graphic designer: The only thing a graphic designer needs is a computer and design software. They can often work from home as freelancers, channelling their creativity intensively on each project. If you like to have a certain amount of flexibility and freedom at work and you have a creative mind, then you should consider this career.

Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in visual arts or graphic design.

Accountant: Accountants tend to spend a lot of time at the office working independently. Interaction with other people is limited if not non-existent. Working as an accountant is a job that requires long periods of concentration and solitary work. If you have good analytical skills and you’re shy and reserved, this could be the ideal profession for you.

Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in accounting. 

Editor: If you enjoy paying attention to detail and working with written communication, an editorial position could be one of the best careers for you. Depending on the organization you work within, you might end up dealing with very few people. Plus, deciding on editorial content is an activity that can potentially provide flexibility and an adequate level of independence. Finally, editors can also work from home as freelancers, thus eliminating face to face communication with other people. 

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in modern languages, English language & literature, journalism or media and communications.

Veterinarian: Even if you don’t feel comfortable being around humans, being surrounded by other creatures that need your medical expertise can be soothing and fulfilling. Veterinarians can have their own surgeries, working with just one or two other staff members. This is definitely one of the best careers for introverts who love animals, have patience and prefer non-human interaction at work.

Qualifications: Degree in veterinary science. 

Best careers for extroverts

Extroverts are outgoing and love to be surrounded by large groups of friends and colleagues, drawing high levels of energy from face to face interactions. At work they usually thrive on teamwork, as they prefer brainstorming in groups and are quick to share thoughts, ideas and opinions. They speak their mind and they’re not afraid to be noticed or become the center of attention. What are the best careers for extroverts?

Lawyer: Being a lawyer (especially a barrister) often requires high levels of confidence in order to speak in front of an entire courtroom, communicating facts effectively and providing compelling arguments. Being prepared to deal with a variety of people is inevitable, making legal careers ideal for people who are significantly outgoing and like to be challenged.

Qualifications: A bachelor of laws and, depending on the country, extra qualifying examinations and admissions tests.

Nurse: Taking care of sick people demands high levels of patience as well as the ability to communicate effectively at all levels with diverse groups of people, including patients, relatives and other health workers. Becoming a nurse is definitely a good career for choice for those who like being surrounded by others, and who have the energy to be sociable enough even in the hardest of circumstances.

Qualifications: A nursing degree

Public relations professional: Communicating effectively with clients and colleagues is key for a PR specialist. If you choose this path, you need to have excellent communication and presentation skills. You will have to deal with a wide array of different people and develop strong working relationships with external stakeholders. Needless to say, your confidence levels should be at their peak as you will be often required to speak on behalf of the organization your clients represent. Don’t try it if you’re not a natural.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in media and communications, public relations or marketing.

Teacher: Are you strong enough to discipline a bunch of unruly children on a daily basis? Being a teacher requires a lot of patience, attention and multitasking, as well as high verbal communication skills. You will often have to go above and beyond, as dealing with colleagues, parents and your students is a task that requires you to give your all. This is a very good career path for people who are highly energetic, tolerant and love working with children and young people.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s in education or another subject, and a postgraduate teaching qualification.

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