Best Jobs for Introverts (2024)

By the OnlineU team | Updated 9/11/2023

The best jobs for introverts are those where your focus, introspection, autonomy, and sound decision-making skills are appreciated and valued by your supervisors and peers. Therefore, you may be able to find your niche in numerous environments and industries. Careers within these industries can include teaching, business, and computer science, where thoughtful decision-making, communication skills, and attention to detail are necessary for success. Like your extroverted colleagues, you can earn top salaries in occupations with high job growth that you may also find fulfilling and rewarding.

By the OnlineU team | Updated 9/11/2023

The best jobs for introverts are those where your focus, introspection, autonomy, and sound decision-making skills are appreciated and valued by your supervisors and peers. Therefore, you may be able to find your niche in numerous environments and industries. Careers within these industries can include teaching, business, and computer science, where thoughtful decision-making, communication skills, and attention to detail are necessary for success. Like your extroverted colleagues, you can earn top salaries in occupations with high job growth that you may also find fulfilling and rewarding.

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Best Jobs for Introverts (1)

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What Is an Introvert?

An introvert gains energy from within as opposed to an extrovert, who gains energy externally from being around others. Introverts recharge and re-energize by reading a good book, watching a favorite movie, or taking a long walk in nature. Many people mistakenly believe introverts are quiet and shy because they sometimes need to be alone. While introverts may find themselves overwhelmed in a crowded concert or the office holiday party, they generally enjoy socializing and engaging in meaningful conversations with people they know well.

Though introverts will probably never become extroverts, they may become more tolerant of different situations and environments as they age and experience life.

While an introvert will usually always be an introvert, the level of introversion experienced can change over time. Though introverts will probably never become extroverts, they may become more tolerant of different situations and environments as they age and experience life. They can develop coping skills and learn to adapt to various conditions over time, especially if they enjoy what they are doing or who they are with.

Types of Introverts and Personality Traits

There are four types of introverts. You may find yourself fitting neatly into one type, or you may have characteristics of each.

1. Social introverts are what we think of most often when we think of introverts. They enjoy small groups and more intimate settings over large crowds where they have to make small talk.

2. Thinking introverts can be found daydreaming and are often very creative.

3. Anxious introverts may suffer from social anxiety and feel awkward or shy in front of others and prefer remaining in the background.

4.Restrained/Inhibited introverts take their time making decisions and think carefully before they act — they aren't inclined to do things on a whim or take risks.

Introvert personality traits generally include the following:

  • Having a small circle of close friends
  • Being very self-aware and reflective
  • Enjoying solitude and "down time"
  • Feeling drained of energy around people
  • Mistaken for being quiet and reserved
  • Preferring to write rather than talk
  • Needing time to make decisions
  • Preferring to work autonomously
  • Daydreaming

15 Best Jobs for Introverts

Accountants and Auditors

Annual Median Salary:$77,250

Job Growth:6%

Accountants and auditors prepare and maintain a company's or individual's financial records. Some become certified public accountants (CPAs) to file tax returns and reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). CPAs must pass an exam through the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) for credentials.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree, such as accounting or business, though some employers prefer a master's degree, such as an MBA that focuses on accounting

Actuaries

Annual Median Salary:$105,900

Job Growth:21%

Actuaries analyze the financial cost of risk for insurance companies. They estimate the probability and financial impact of certain events, such as death, sickness, accidents and natural disasters. Actuaries must become certified through the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) or the Society of Actuaries (SOA).

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a field such as actuarial science, math, or statistics

Architects

Annual Median Salary:$80,180

Job Growth:3%

Architects plan and design structures, such as houses, factories, and office buildings. Architects must pass the Architect Registered Examination through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) to become certified.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in architecture

Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers

Annual Median Salary:$50,120

Job Growth:12%

Archivists, curators, and museum workers help educate the public about historical events and artifacts. Technicians and conservators prepare and restore objects in collections and exhibits. Archivists appraise, process, and catalog historical records and documents. Certification is not required but may be obtained through the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA).

  • Education Requirements: Museum technicians need a bachelor's degree in history, a social science degree, or one in the performing arts, while archivists and curators need a master's degree

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Annual Median Salary:$159,010

Job Growth:16%

Computer and information systems managers — also called information technology managers (IT managers) — plan, coordinate, and direct an organization's computer-related activities. They determine an organization's information technologies goals and work to meet them.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer scienceor similar field

Information Security Analysts

Annual Median Salary:$102,600

Job Growth:35%

Information security analysts protect an organization's computer systems and networks. They monitor for vulnerabilities and security breaches. Certification, such as Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) credentialing, may be required.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM field

Interpreters and Translators

Annual Median Salary:$49,110

Job Growth:20%

Interpreters and translators are fluent in English and at least one other language, which may include American Sign Language. Certification is not required but may be obtained through the American Translators Association (ATA) to demonstrate proficiency.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a related field, which could include a degree in communications, foreign language, or business

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers

Annual Median Salary:$61,350

Job Growth:4%

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers help prepare children for middle school by teaching them the basics of math, reading, and writing. All states require certification or licensure.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in teaching or anelementary education degree

Librarians and Library Media Specialists

Annual Median Salary:$61,190

Job Growth:6%

Librarians and library media specialists connect people with information. They may help individuals conduct research for personal, professional, and academic purposes. Librarians also maintain book collections and other material collections. Certification is not required.

  • Education Requirements: Master's degree in library science

Medical Records Specialists

Annual Median Salary:$46,660

Job Growth:7%

Medical records specialists include medical billers and coders who apply clinical and diagnostic codes to patient records for billing and insurance purposes. Some employers require certification through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

  • Education Requirements: Finishing acertificate programor anassociate degree

Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers

Annual Median Salary:$109,020

Job Growth:25%

Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers create, evaluate, and test software applications that users need to perform specific tasks. They resolve any bugs or glitches that may occur. Certification is not required.

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field

Technical Writers

Annual Median Salary:$78,060

Job Growth:6%

Technical writers write instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other documents so others can understand complex technical information. They may also edit materials written by other staff. Employers don't usually require certification, though it's offered through the Society for Technical Communication (STC) and the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA).

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in English, or another related degree, like computer science or engineering

Veterinarians

Annual Median Salary:$100,370

Job Growth:19%

Veterinarians care for the health of animals by diagnosing and treating medical conditions and preventing disease. Some work in small animal clinics that treat house pets, while others may work with livestock and other larger animals. Veterinarians must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination to practice.

  • Education Requirements: Doctoral degree

Web Developers and Digital Designers

Annual Median Salary:$78,300

Job Growth:23%

Web developers and digital designers create, maintain, and test websites for organizations and individuals. Some also help create website content. Digital designers create the look and functionality of a website. Certification is not required.

Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in computer programming or computer science are often requested, though some employers may only require a high school diploma as long as candidates can demonstrate their skills

Writers and Authors

Annual Median Salary:$69,510

Job Growth:4%

Writers and authors create content for websites, books, blogs, magazines, and film. They present drafts and work with editors to ensure materials are ready for publishing. While certification is not required, those interested in grant writing may earn the Certified Grant Writer (CGW) credential through the American Grant Writers' Association (AGWA).

  • Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in journalism, English, or communications

FAQs About Jobs for Introverts

What Jobs Can I Get as an Introvert?

You can really get any job you want as an introvert as long as you understand yourself, including your strengths and limitations. However, introverts are often attracted to jobs that are tech related, involve research, require number crunching, or entail writing.

What Is the Easiest Job for an Introvert?

The easiest job for an introvert is one that is low stress with minimal interruption from others. Options may include social media manager, proofreader and editor, translator, and film editor. Self-employment or working from home can also be good options for introverts.

What Jobs Are Good for Introverts With Anxiety?

Jobs that are good for introverts with anxiety include accountant, librarian, archivist, graphic designer, software developer, writer, and web developer. These jobs often require solo work in quiet environments.

Is Teaching a Good Job for Introverts?

Teaching can be a good job for introverts. An introverted teacher may have a knack for engaging introverted students in activities and putting them at ease, listening to and communicating with students and their parents, and planning and preparing lessons.

Bottom Line

Being an introvert shouldn't limit your career opportunities. Being a good listener and communicator, working under minimal supervision, and being thoughtful and reflective suits many industries and occupations, from education and teaching to technology and IT management and beyond.

Best Jobs for Introverts (2024)

FAQs

What career is best for introverts? ›

The best jobs for introverts, according to new research—some pay over $100,000
  • Database architect. Median annual salary: $134,870.
  • Software developer. Median annual salary: $127,260.
  • Actuary. ...
  • Information security analyst. ...
  • Data scientist. ...
  • Computer systems analyst. ...
  • Mechanical engineer. ...
  • Digital (UX) designer.
Mar 20, 2024

What jobs are good for introverts with anxiety? ›

For example, an excellent job for an introvert could be data analyst, a role where they would leverage their analytical skills and attention to detail. They'd work in a focused, independent environment to look closely at data and find patterns and trends that informed future decisions.

What career is right for a shy person? ›

Behavioral therapists are one of the best career options for introverted people because of how introspective the field is. Introverts prefer time to reflect, think, and organize their thoughts before speaking, so the mental health industry is a wonderful and fulfilling field for them.

Is it hard for introverts to get a job? ›

The job search process is difficult for everyone, especially if the thought of interviewing or networking drains your energy or fills you with anxiety. Unfortunately, that's the case for many introverts, and it can make these already challenging tasks even harder.

What jobs can I do if I'm not smart? ›

15 jobs for people with no skills
  1. Insurance claims processor. National average salary: $42,913 per year Primary duties: Insurance claims processors handle claims for insurance companies. ...
  2. Security guard. ...
  3. Production worker. ...
  4. Construction laborer. ...
  5. Dog walker. ...
  6. Housekeeper. ...
  7. Taxi driver. ...
  8. Server.
Apr 18, 2024

What do introverts struggle with at work? ›

However, being an introvert at work comes with its own challenges as well. They often need to recharge after social interactions, can seem aloof, and can get drowned out in meetings.

What jobs can I do with crippling anxiety? ›

Some of the best jobs for those with a mental health condition may be writing positions, data entry, animal care, graphic design, or dog walking. Individuals experiencing anxiety can choose a career that limits interaction with others.

Do introverts struggle with anxiety? ›

Some research has shown that introverted people tend to experience higher levels of anxiety, including anticipatory anxiety. 1 If you're an introvert, you probably have plenty of experience with spending way too much time worrying about upcoming social events.

Which degree is best for introverts? ›

10 Best Majors and Careers for Introverts
  • Accounting. Accounting majors study financial accounting, accounting information systems, and auditing. ...
  • Actuarial Science. Actuarial science majors study risk theory, economics, and probability. ...
  • Architecture. ...
  • Art. ...
  • Computer Science. ...
  • Engineering. ...
  • Graphic Design. ...
  • Information Technology.

What are the four types of introverts? ›

Types of Introverts
  • Social introverts. This is the "classic" type of introvert. ...
  • Thinking introverts. People in this group are daydreamers. ...
  • Anxious introverts. They seek out alone time not just because they like it, but also because they often feel awkward or shy around people.
  • Restrained/inhibited introverts.
Sep 3, 2022

Which personality is most shy? ›

Probably the best that can be said is that it is easiest to make the case for the INFP, INTP, or ISTP as the most introverted personality type.

Can you get disability for being an introvert? ›

While being an introvert isn't a disability, it's certainly a disadvantage in the job search and interview process.

Why is life harder for introverts? ›

“In response to the initial question, we can therefore say that task-oriented, introverted people find constantly dealing with new tasks difficult because they want to do them properly. If you come up against an extroverted, dominant boss, this can lead to an overload and associated helplessness,” explains the expert.

Is it rarer to be an introvert or extrovert? ›

According to estimates, extroverts outnumber introverts by about 3 to 1.1 Introverts often find that other people try to change them or even suggest something is wrong with them. While introverts make up a smaller portion of the population, there is no right or wrong personality type.

Are there any successful introverts? ›

It doesn't mean that introverts can't be successful. In fact, the list of successful introverts is long: Michael Jordan, J.K. Rowling, Christina Aguilera, Bill Gates, President Obama, Emma Watson and more.

What's the best trade job you D recommend for an introvert? ›

A job that may be well-suited for introverts is Electrician: Electricians work independently most of the time and have the opportunity to work alone on projects. They typically work indoors and may have fewer face-to-face interactions with clients.

Who do introverts attract? ›

Extroverts attract people who like razzle-dazzle—introverts attract people who want to bask in their warmth. Remember that, if you're looking for a one-and-only.

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