Where do you see yourself in five years?
You've probably tried to answer this question many times, no matter what stage you’re at in your career path. And sometimes, it’s hard to say something concrete if you’re still finding your niche.
Everyone is different, whether you identify as an introvert or extrovert. But if you prefer working alone, these common jobs for introverts might give you the work environment and solo responsibilities you need. These jobs respect your personal space, limited social battery, and allow for self-reflection and self-awareness.
What’s an introvert?
Introversion is a personality type that usually includes people who enjoy solitude and feel exhausted by extensive social interaction, contrasting extroverts who typically thrive working with others.
An introvert usually gets their energy from being alone instead of socializing. That doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy being around others. They might just need more alone time than extroverts might. While some introverts prefer solitude or small groups, they can still overcome shyness and make successful social connections.
In the early 20th century, Carl Jung was the first to theorize the existence of introverts, who look inward, and extroverts, who look outward. But in modern psychology, it's theorized that no one is a complete introvert or extrovert and that people exist on a spectrum.
These two terms are just broad definitions that can help you identify your own personality traits, better articulate your needs, and get to know yourself.
Common introvert characteristics
Introverts are naturally drawn into their inner world, which means they’re usually thoughtful and self-aware. But remember, if you identify as an introvert, you might not connect with all of these traits. They just reflect the general perception of introversion.
Here are a few other characteristics that many introverts identify with:
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Enjoys alone time
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Prefers written communication
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Enjoys independence
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Feels tired after social interaction
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Is in touch with their emotions
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Doesn’t prefer group work
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Avoids the spotlight
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Has a smaller group of friends
Common introvert skills
Since introverts might spend a lot of time thinking, they excel in skills that depend on emotional intelligence and critical thinking. Here are a few common introvert skills:
What jobs are good for introverts?
Introvert-friendly jobs usually include ones that let you work alone and use your skills on a day-to-day basis. Discover what makes you feel a sense of purpose instead of being drained.
Although not all introverts are the same, if you’re an introvert, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled in jobs that align with the following characteristics:
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Specialized: Many introverts enjoy going deep into their passions and gaining specific knowledge. If you’re an introvert, you might thrive in a position that allows you to be a specialist rather than a generalist.
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Few disruptions: Introverts sometimes require extra effort to regain focus and concentration after interruptions. You may be more comfortable in a home office, private desk, or space with plenty of quiet corners.
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Reduced social interactions: Introverts might think over a problem internally before forming and sharing an opinion. If this applies to you, you’re more likely to excel in one-on-one interactions that give you the time and space to work out your thoughts at your own pace.
12 of the best jobs and careers for introverts
Our professional choices aren't random. Studies show that most people pursue career paths whose responsibilities and environment are compatible with their personality. And when you find a job that speaks to your character, you have higher job satisfaction and are more likely to stay at your job.
Every person has different needs and interests, and so does every introvert. But their problem-solving skills, empathy, and workplace autonomy make them perfect candidates for various job descriptions and industries.
If you identify as an introvert or have introverted qualities, here are 12 potential careers to explore.
The best jobs for introverts without a degree
Whether you're a student looking for a job or a worker who doesn’t have postsecondary education, you can still find a job without a degree or extensive work experience. Here are a few entry-level jobs for introverts:
1. Animal service worker
Animal service workers care for or train domestic pets, and it’s a perfect entry-level job for introverts who prefer the company of animals to humans. Jobs under this umbrella include animal trainers, groomers, animal shelter attendants, pet sitters, and zookeepers.
Most of these positions generally require a high school diploma, and they might ask for additional training or certifications before you start.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), animal care workers earn a median annual salary of $28,730. This is lower than the national average, but demand for animal workers is growing. The BLS also expects that the need for animal care providers will grow by 29% from 2021–2031, which is over four times the average growth rate.
2. Paralegal
Paralegals and legal assistants work full-time behind the scenes for law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.
They help lawyers conduct research, draft documents, and perform other tasks to support attorneys. Becoming a paralegal or assistant is a good option for introverts because it involves using organizational skills to finish tasks solo.
Most people in this field have a two-year associate degree, a certification in paralegal studies, or other training. They earn a median annual salary of $56,230, and occupational demand is expected to grow by 14% from 2021–2031.
3. Transportation manager
Transportation managers handle the logistical planning, direction, coordination, storage, or distribution of materials for warehouses and transportation companies.
It's a good job for detail-oriented introverts, as transport managers must stay organized and strictly uphold company, state, and federal regulations.
You don’t need formal education for this position, although a certification program can help you land a job and earn a higher wage. The median annual salary for transportation managers is $98,230, and the BLS estimates an 8% growth in demand from 2021–2031.
Jobs for tech-savvy introverts
Critical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail make many introverts perfect candidates for the tech industry. Here are a few jobs to consider:
4. Software engineer or developer
Software engineers and developers create apps, programs, and computer systems. Both professions work with a team of programmers, clients, and quality assurance analysts, though the bulk of the job is independent.
Since all you need to fulfill the role is a computer, there are plenty of opportunities to work from home as a software engineer.
Many enter the field with a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology, and can continue to specialize with a master's degree. The median annual salary is $109,020, and good software engineers are in high demand, with an estimated 25% growth from 2021–2031.
5. Computer research scientist
Computer research scientists conduct technical research to find trends and create innovative uses for technology. They use logic and problem-solving strategies to break down complex algorithms and learn more about computer systems. This job lets introverts dive deep into solo research.
Computer science is a great career path for long-term professional growth because many people in this field pursue specialized master's degrees to hone in on more specific topics. The median annual salary is $131,490, and these experts are in high demand, with 21% projected growth from 2021–2031.
6. Information systems manager
Information systems managers, often called IT managers, plan, organize, and direct computer-related activities for organizations. They help explore and decide on an organization's information technology needs and goals.
A managerial position like this one might require more confrontation and social interaction, so it’s a good choice for introverts who enjoy social problem-solving.
IT managers can enter the field with a bachelor's degree in information technology or a related field, such as computer engineering. The median salary for IT managers is $159,010, and they have 16% projected growth between 2021–2031.
Jobs for introverts who like working with numbers
If you have strong memory skills and a knack for problem-solving, jobs that mix data analysis and mathematics could be a perfect fit. Here are a few jobs that could work for your skills:
7. Actuary
Actuaries use a combination of statistics, math, and financial theory to analyze economics for different organizations. This usually involves calculating the costs of risks such as illness or accidents.
Actuaries often work for financial institutions or insurance companies to create policies that reduce the cost of risk. They also often work alone with detail-oriented tasks, making this career a good fit for introverted people.
Actuaries typically have a bachelor's degree in mathematics, business, or actuarial science and begin as trainees while they pursue certification. An actuary’s median annual salary is $105,900, and the job is in high demand. The BLS estimates a 21% growth in the field from 2021–2031.
8. Accountant
Accountants draft and examine fiscal records, identify opportunities and risks, and provide financial advice. They also analyze financial processes and build solutions to help organizations or individual clients use their resources efficiently.
Accounting has a lot of work environment flexibility. While it's common to work as an in-house accountant, many are self-employed and can work from home or a private office, which makes it a good choice for introverts who prefer to work alone.
To get a job, you need a bachelor's degree in accounting or business, and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification can open up more job prospects. The median annual salary for accountants is $77,250, and their job growth is average at a rate of 6% from 2021–2031.
9. Data scientist
Data scientists, similar to data analysts, use analytical tools and methods to examine data and help organizations make informed decisions. Working with data is a good option for introverts adept at switching between empathy and logic, as it can involve human focus groups and computer algorithms.
Data scientists can enter the field with a bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Earning a master's or doctoral degree down the line can widen your job prospects and earn you a higher salary. The median salary in this field is $100,910, with 36% projected growth from 2021–2031 (the fastest on this list).
Jobs for creative introverts
If you love to express yourself creatively and prefer jobs that don’t require math, arts, and humanities offer plenty of opportunities to work alone and focus on your inner world. Here are a few options:
10. Writer
If you’re an introvert who’s good with words and likes to come up with stories, there are lots of job opportunities under this umbrella, including technical writing, copywriting, editing, journalism, and creative writing.
Technical writers are in charge of breaking down complex information into easy-to-read manuals and other instructional documents. Creative writers and journalists focus on storytelling and narrative writing.
Many writers enter the field with a bachelor's degree in English or a related field, such as communications or journalism. The average salary and job growth will vary depending on your chosen field, but the average pay for writers and authors is $69,510, and it’s $78,060 for technical writers.
11. Graphic designer
Graphic designers create visual art and design designs for advertising, media, and marketing campaigns.
Depending on your social skills and preferences, you can find work in an office with an agency or start freelancing and pursue remote jobs with different clients, the latter of which is a great option for introverts who want to work alone.
Graphic designers generally have a degree in graphic design or a related fine arts field, although they can develop a portfolio through self-taught education. According to the BLS, full-time graphic designers earn a median annual salary of $50,710, although that number can vary widely for self-employed designers.
12. Archivist or curator
Archivists oversee historical collections, while curators help institutions and organizations curate their assets. Both can work at museums, colleges, universities, corporations, or historical sites. They’re good jobs for quiet introverts who like to read because they let you get lost in investigating the story of a particular collection.
People in this field usually pursue a bachelor's degree in the arts and a master's degree in history, library science, archival studies, art history, archaeology, or another related field, depending on the specialty. The median salary is $50,120, with a 12% projected growth from 2021–2031.
A career path for every personality
Introverted personalities have some of the most sought-after soft skills: critical thinking, autonomy, and thoughtful communication, just to name a few. This is why there are jobs for introverts in every industry and skill level.
Zero in on your career goals, check job descriptions carefully and be on the lookout for home office or hybrid work setups. You’ll be one step closer to finding inner professional peace, whether you identify as an introvert or just prefer working alone.
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