If you are an introvert, finding the right career can make you feel energized rather than more drained. When you’re trying to decide what path to go with your professional life, one of the most crucial considerations is selecting a path that fits your personality. If you identify as an introvert, you are in luck since there are many options available to you. The first step in determining which career would be the most suitable for you is to have an understanding of the careers that are most suitable for introverts. Keep reading this piece to get the best career for introverts without a degree, with anxiety, the highest paying jobs for them, and the worst jobs for someone with that kind of personality.
The best career choice for introverts can’t be determined without first understanding who introverts are and what they’re good at.
What Are Introverts?
Introverts are people who possess a specific personality trait called introversion. To be an introvert is to have a preference for spending time alone, reflecting on one’s own thoughts and feelings, and developing one’s own ideas and perspectives. Additionally, introverts do best in low-stim surroundings because they get what’s known as an “introvert hangover” after being among too many people or having too much of a social experience.
However, the factors that lead to an individual’s introversion, extroversion, or ambiversion are not well understood. A person may be born with an introverted personality due to physiological or genetic factors. It may also be the result of your upbringing, the people and events you’ve encountered, and the things you’ve learned.
The brains of introverts and extroverts are shown to function somewhat differently, according to a recent study. Dopamine levels (the chemical messenger responsible for how we sense pleasure) rise in an extrovert when they experience excitement or pleasure. Extremely social gatherings aren’t fun for introverts since their dopamine receptors are more sensitive. When dopamine levels drop, an introvert experiences fatigue and anxiety.
In addition to being better at problem-solving, planning, and memory, introverts have more blood flow to the prefrontal cortex. They’d much rather think and reflect than interact with people who aren’t like them.
Characteristics of an Introvert’s Personality
The characteristics of an introvert are as follows:
- Deep thinker
- Introspective
- Independent
- Quiet
- Better at writing than speaking (and prefer writing too)
- Zone out to get away or escape
- Sensitive to conflict, negativity, and criticism
- Dislike small talk
- Experience emotions and feelings on a deep level
There are four distinct varieties of introversion, and you probably belong to one of them:
- The anxious introvert prefers to be alone and struggles to make conversation.
- The thinking introvert – thinks a lot; daydreamer type; creative imagination
- The restrained introvert – thinks before making a decision
- The social introvert – prefers small groups
Tips for Introverts Seeking a Creative Career
Although introverts can learn to thrive in a variety of settings, we identified a number of challenges they may face when seeking out occupations suited to their own brand of creative introspection. They’ll be able to use these to their full potential in the business and really excel there.
#1. Flexibile Workplace
Great careers for an introvert don’t just offer high pay and generous vacation time; they also allow you plenty of time and space to work independently. An office setting is ideal for an introvert because it allows for concentration and privacy. It would be ideal if the position allowed for remote work. This allows an introvert to work in peace, replenish his energy, and move on to his tasks with fresh vigor.
#2. Communicating Without Being Together
When compared to public speaking, introverts prefer one-on-one conversations. During the epidemic, we saw firsthand that some businesses can function with almost no employee connection at all. As an extra bonus for introverts, these methods typically involve the use of software or tools that strengthen collaboration without requiring online meetings and regular communication. Employees who are more reserved can still provide support and get feedback from coworkers by using tools like Slack and email. Companies that are more comfortable with written than verbal communication are a good fit for introverts.
#3. Recognize Your Boundaries
You are the only person who can truly understand you. Most introverts would rather operate alone than in a team. If you are unable to secure a remote position, it is important to investigate the office culture to determine whether you would enjoy working there and if you will be a good fit. However, we also suggest asking questions about the position, such as how often you’ll be expected to attend meetings or events, or if you’ll have to do things like make presentations or negotiate with clients. This will give you a good idea of what is expected of you in your new position.
Best Career for Introverts
It doesn’t matter which theory of introversion you believe in; being an introvert won’t prevent you from having a successful professional life. The following careers are excellent options for someone with an introverted nature.
These jobs provide settings where one can operate independently and with minimal supervision. People that are good listeners and can think creatively will do well in these positions.
#1. Video Editor
A video editor is someone who assembles footage shot by videographers or provided by clients and edits it into an end product. They usually require a keen eye for detail, the ability to think outside the box, and proficiency with both technology and video editing. Video editors may work for themselves as freelancers, providing their services to a variety of different clients, or they may find full-time work with a digital firm. In order to expand their businesses and earn more money, advanced editors with several years of expertise may decide to launch their own creative agency and hire more videographers and editors.
Median Annual Salary: $63,400
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 5%
#2. Business Analysts
Analysts in this field deal with developing more effective methods of doing business. Data administration, research, and software development are all tasks that fall under the purview of these experts. In order to provide strategic advice for a company, they will need to do in-depth analyses of data. Similarly, a large portion of a business analyst’s day is spent solo.
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, or another comparable field is usually necessary for entry-level employment in this industry. A master’s degree in data analytics or a master of business administration with a focus on analytics is equally useful for climbing the corporate ladder.
Median Annual Salary: $78,410
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 14%
#3. Research Scientist
Experiments and studies are planned and conducted by research professionals. Sciences like medicine, geology, pharmacology, and even meteorology fall under this category. Scientists in this field might work for the government, a university, or a nonprofit concerned with the environment in a laboratory setting. This will work for you if you are naturally curious and have a strong interest in science and experiments.
However, a bachelor’s degree in the relevant discipline is necessary for a career as a research scientist. Candidates having a master’s degree, doctorate, or ACRP Certification from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals will be given priority.
Median Annual Salary: $72,000
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 8%
#4. Writer
Writing is a great career choice for an introvert since it allows them to express themselves creatively while staying in their comfort zone. Writers can find work in a variety of fields, from fiction to technical manuals to web material and copywriting. Also, writers, whether employed full-time or contracted out, need to communicate with clients or supervisors; this calls for some social engagement; but writers, for the most part, work alone and have plenty of time to focus on their work.
Median Annual Salary: $69,760
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 9%
#5. Translator
Possessing a command of more than one tongue? Whether your expertise lies in the arts or the sciences, you might want to think about translating from one language to another.
Working as a translator for transcribed or written materials allows you to set your own hours and schedule. You can also work as a translator for government or commercial leaders, but expect a higher volume of human interaction. Also, read WHAT ARE CAREERS FOR INTROVERTS: Top Paying & Satisfying Jobs in 2023.
Median Annual Salary: $52,330
#6. Psychologist
The field of psychology is the next option on our list of best and one of the highest paying jobs for introverts. Psychologists do their own studies and speak with clients without any supervision. And they study their patients and keep comprehensive records of their mental, emotional, social, and behavioral reactions to various situations. For those who are naturally reserved, this is a fulfilling career.
However, Statista reports (May 2021) that the number of professional psychologists in the United States ranges from 30 to over 1,500. The number of professional psychologists is highest in California, while it is lowest in Vermont and North Dakota.
For most positions in this profession, a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a comparable field (like education) with a psychology specialty is necessary.
Median Annual Salary: $81,040
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 6%
#7. Graphic Designer
A graphic designer uses computers and software to create visual representations of concepts. Introverted creative types who have a passion for technology will thrive in this field. They are tasked with coming up with visual imagery and original concepts to convey messages, educate audiences, and attract buyers. Magazines, corporate brochures, ads, marketing campaigns, and other comparable projects frequently require the services of graphic designers for layout and production. The ability to work from home makes graphic design an attractive career option.
To work as a graphic designer, you need to have experience in the field and be proficient in a variety of graphic design applications. Keep in mind, though, that a bachelor’s degree is often a minimum requirement for entry-level positions in the area.
Median Annual Salary: $50,710
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 3%
#8. Accountant
Accountants are the people who keep and analyze financial records. They also play a role in assessing potential threats and rewards. A career as an accountant can be ideal if you are good with numbers and have an interest in a wide variety of fields. Accountants often meet with clients one-on-one and are responsible for managing their own workload.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or financial management is necessary for entry-level employment in this sector. A CPA certification may be needed for certain careers.
Median Annual Salary: $77,250
Job Growth Rate (2020-30): 6%
What Is the Best Career for Antisocial People?
Try out one of these occupations ideal for introverts to see if you can finally get some peace and quiet.
- Technical Writer
- Software Developer
- Horticulturist
- Janitor
- Statistician.
Overview of the Highest Paying Jobs for Introverts
Introverts require time to themselves in order to do their best at work. Working independently is crucial to their productivity, but they can still have a career that requires teamwork and interpersonal skills.
They should be able to give each activity their full attention, rather than having to juggle several at once. Here are the highest paying jobs for introverts.
#1. IT Manager
Managers in the field of information technology (or “IT”) typically have the stereotype of being loners who spend all day in the basement fiddling with their computers. While this generalization holds some water, an IT manager is responsible for far more than just “fixing computers.”
Managers in this field keep an eye on the company’s IT infrastructure, make suggestions for improvements, steer the IT department’s policies, manage projects, and implement any necessary software or hardware changes.
This is a management role, thus communication with others is expected. However, this is one of the highest paying jobs for an introvert who thrive in a more intimate work atmosphere because most of your contacts will be inside a small team of programmers and administrators.
An IT manager’s background usually includes time spent as a programmer or administrator before being promoted to management.
If not, a four-year degree in computer science might be necessary. IT managers need fluency in many programming languages, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to implement processes for creating and implementing strategies.
It is unusual for IT administrators to work remotely because of the breadth of their responsibilities.
Therefore, if you are an introvert who thrives in a fast-paced work atmosphere yet prefers to spend most of your day working alone, the position of IT manager may be ideal for you.
Median Annual Salary: $89,000
#2. Software Developer
Software developers get paid well and have a lot of perks if they enjoy working with computers and don’t mind sitting in front of a screen for most of the day. Also, software developers contribute to the production of new computer programs for a wide variety of business and consumer applications. They need to be aware of the software’s purpose, how to build a safe system, and proper coding practices. They may also assist in the implementation of new software or the extrication of defects in the event that the software is malfunctioning.
It’s not uncommon for software employees to work alone for long stretches of time. As freelancers, many of these people can opt to work from home, picking and choosing the best jobs for them, despite the fact that they periodically need to meet with clients or coworkers to discuss software needs, graphic design, upgrades, or maintenance. Software developers, as opposed to software engineers, can expect to spend more time alone.
In the United States, software development is a rapidly expanding field of employment.
Median Annual Salary: $105,590
Job Growth Rate: 24%
#3. Digital Marketing Specialist
There are various niches within the digital marketing industry that are ideal for introverts.
Among these are:
- Social media marketing
- SEO
- Digital advertising
- Email marketing.
Digital marketing is a broad field, and you might specialize in one area or operate in a more general capacity.
You can enter the business with a bachelor’s degree and make six figures in digital marketing, but you can also learn the ropes online without a degree.
Most of your time will be spent in front of a computer, where you’ll be responsible for things like coming up with new marketing strategies and materials, reviewing the results of previous marketing campaigns, etc.
Consider applying for a digital marketing position with a company that is not in the marketing sector if you prefer less face-to-face connection. Online advertising for fashion labels, software developers, video game publishers, etc.
On the other hand, working for a digital marketing agency where you’ll be serving numerous clients rather than just one could lead to greater opportunities for social engagement.
Median Annual Salary: $50,585
#4. Biochemist
The field of biochemistry is one of the highest paying jobs that offers excellent opportunities for introverts with a passion for research. Due to the solitary nature of laboratory work, social connection is minimal in this industry. Scientists who focus on finding solutions to biological problems by studying the chemical processes occurring within live organisms. They help develop new treatments and synthetic tissues, conduct research, and work with DNA and the tiniest organisms known to man. Many biochemists, although spending time in corporate labs, are employed by academic institutions or pharmaceutical corporations, and their research is supported by generous funding programs.
However, starting out in the field of biochemistry requires a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry or a similar scientific field. The individual must have in order to function independently in a research environment. Ph.D. The current unemployment rate for biochemists is less than 2%, so they should have no trouble finding well-paying job. Those who have earned a doctorate degree can anticipate an annual salary of $93,280. Also, those in the wholesale sector typically earn significantly more than this, while those in the academic sector may make significantly less.
What Part-Time Jobs Best Suit an Introvert?
Do you want to work part-time as an introvert? It’s not easy to find work that’s a good fit for your skills and interests. No matter how many options you’ve considered, nothing seems to fit the bill just correctly. Those who prefer to work alone might choose from a number of rewarding part-time jobs.
- Web Designer
- Freelance Writer
- Gig Driver
- Virtual Assistant
- Data Entry Clerk.
Best Career for Introverts Without Degree
If you’re an introvert who prefers to put in solo hours at the office, take heart: you might have developed valuable abilities like active listening, focus, and attention to detail that are sometimes lacking in more gregarious workers. Even if you don’t have a degree, your solitary personality and the abilities that go along with it can help you find a job that doesn’t require much interaction with others.
Take a look at the best career for introverts without a degree.
#1. Janitor
A janitor’s job is to clean and maintain institutional buildings such those that serve education, healthcare, business, and government. Cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, corridors, and rooms; removing trash and recyclables; washing windows; clearing sidewalks and yards; and performing other general maintenance work may fall under their purview. Depending on the nature of the job, they may be required to operate dangerous tools like lawn mowers and polishers.
Median Annual Salary: $33,928
#2. Animal Trainer
Animal trainers are responsible for teaching pets, service animals, and horses the basics of obedience and tricks, as well as preparing them for competition, performance, protection, and service. Also, animal trainers are responsible for a wide range of activities, including but not limited to: conducting training sessions, studying animal behavior, caring for animals, and teaching pets manners or security and search skills to dogs. These experts may find employment at zoos, animal shelters, humane organizations, media corporations, government agencies, or privately owned enterprises.
Median Annual Salary: $33,410
#3. Freelance Writer
Storytelling has consistently played a significant role in human culture. Writing has become one of the best career paths for introverts without a degree thanks to the internet’s increased need for content and writers. All you need is a laptop and you can accomplish your work from anywhere.
However, finding your niche as a freelance writer is essential, as you may be asked to write anything from social media posts to technical manuals. As a freelancer, you are responsible for your own promotion and invoicing, therefore there is an element of self-promotion involved. The labor itself, though, can be done in pajamas if that’s more your style.
Some forms of freelance writing may benefit from a university education. Having a college degree can set you apart from the competition if, for example, the employer is seeking candidates with extensive knowledge of a certain field or substantial work experience. Freelance writers who don’t go to school tend to succeed, though.
Since freelancers determine their own prices and also cover their own taxes, their earnings can vary widely; but, even as a beginning, you should anticipate to charge $20 to $30 per hour.
#4. Artist
Back in the day, it took a lot of flair and personality for an artist to win over paying customers. Those times are long past!
Etsy, Pixpa, UGallery, and even Amazon provide excellent opportunities for artists to make a living selling their work online. While art is a field that can be studied for a degree, many working artists either teach themselves or take classes throughout high school and into adulthood.
Furthermore, the average annual wage for a freelance artist in the United States is around $55,000, yet being an artist is one of the best career for introverts without a degree because of its adaptability. In order to make a living as an artist, you can produce anything from original paintings to print-on-demand T-shirts. You’ll need marketing experience, but this is one of the amazing careers for an introvert person without a college degree because you may choose your own hours and work anywhere you like.
#5. Blogger
Blogging is one of the best career for introverts without a degree, especially if you like the notion of working for yourself.
However, bloggers create their own website from scratch, populating it with content (often related to a single topic) and nurturing an audience of regular visitors. If you can attract a sizable enough audience, you can monetize your blog through advertising and earn an annual salary of $45,000 or more.
If the thought of publishing under your own name on a blog makes you nervous, there is another option: ghostwriting. Blogging is a new field, so you don’t need a degree to get started, and you can do most of the work by yourself.
Best Jobs for Introverts With Anxiety
Being an introvert who also struggles with anxiety can make the stresses of the workplace feel even greater.
If this describes you, the good news is that there are many jobs that can lessen the strain on your professional and, hopefully, personal life.Data entry, programming, landscaping, and delivery driving are all great careers for an introvert with anxiety.
If you struggle with nervousness or social anxiety, don’t let it stop you from finding fulfilling employment. Think about the work setting, expectations, deadlines, clients, and colleagues, as well as the work hours and days, when you’re on the hunt for a job.
Here are the best jobs for introverts with anxiety.
#1. Librarian
If you’re an anxious introvert who doesn’t thrive in chaotic settings, a library may be the perfect place for you to spend some quiet time.
If you have a passion for reading and education, this is one of the best jobs for introverts with anxiety. The position will provide you with opportunities to interact with others and expand your knowledge base.
While most libraries need their librarians to have advanced degrees, you may still be able to get work in the industry by providing administrative or customer service support. Jobs or a career in bookstores and libraries, such as shelving books and directing customers to their desired titles, might be particularly beneficial for introverts and people with anxiety or without a degree.
Median Annual Salary: $50,000
#2. Delivery Driver
Shipping corporations like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx, as well as smaller businesses, rely on drivers to transport packages to their customers and other locations. You can be the one to take the goods where they need to go and enjoy a day of alone on the road by taking a job as a delivery driver.
Even though you’ll have to keep to a strict schedule as a delivery driver, you won’t have to deal with customers or coworkers very much, and you won’t have to worry about bringing work home with you in the evenings.
If you need anything to get you out of the house, you might even be able to work part-time.
Median Annual Salary: $37,000
#3. Entrepreneur
Working for oneself as an entrepreneur or business owner means being in charge of your own time and results. Being an entrepreneur allows you to set your own schedule and priorities. Many of the occupations on this list lend themselves naturally to collaboration with business ownership.
As a business owner, you won’t have a boss scrutinizing your every move, but you still have to deal with clients and suppliers. You can also employ someone to carry out the tasks you despise.
Be wary of outsourcing all of your personal responsibilities, though. Instead, try starting small and working up to more challenging activities in order to tackle social and performance circumstances that you find anxiety-provoking.
#4. Programmer
A career as a programmer could be a good fit for you if you appreciate working with computers to develop solutions and new programs.
Many of these jobs can be done from home, meaning you may get paid to lounge around in your pajamas all day while you type away at your computer. However, even if you do have an office job, you probably won’t have to do much talking to other people.
Many programmers now work on cybersecurity in addition to developing software and websites. Many introverted, anxiety-prone people find comfort in the profession of computer programming because of the abundance of freelance programmers.
Median Annual Salary: $67,000
#5. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists are essential in the entertainment, medical, and legal industries because they take audio or video recordings and turn them into legible text. Many transcriptionists work from home alone.
These jobs are ideal for introverts with anxiety because of the clear structure, minimal stress, and quiet environment they give. When the workday is over, a transcriptionist can simply log out and put work out of their minds till the following morning.
Another perk is that many of these jobs are flexible, as employers generally don’t mind how or when you get the job done so long as the finished product is handed in on time.
Median Annual Salary: $28,000
Worst Jobs for Introverts
Here are the worst jobs for introverts,
#1. Real Estate Agent
If you are an introvert who has problems talking to new people, jobs in real estate are one of the worst jobs for you. The ability to read the market, schedule and keep showing appointments, and successfully negotiate offers is essential.
While some of your time will be spent working alone (such when adding or modifying listings for available homes online), you should expect to spend a lot of time interacting directly with customers. Therefore, a job as a real estate salesperson might not be the best fit for someone who struggles with social anxiety or an introvert.
#2. Insurance Brokers
Insurance agents need to be outgoing and persuasive, making the profession a poor fit for introverts. You’ll have to reach out to possible clients and convince them to purchase your insurance. Public speaking, making connections, and closing deals are all areas where extroverts shine.
Selling and negotiating are terrifying activities for introverts. Introverts are able to stay on task through self-paced, interactive courses that provide visual and audio support.
However, a normal client contact would consist of a phone conversation, potentially followed by a face-to-face visit, regardless of the product. Your primary responsibilities will be selling and persuasive conversation, which may not sit well with an introvert. You will also have to conduct some research, maybe some email correspondence, and keep records.
#3. Coach
As a coach, you will mostly be responsible for setting an example and motivating your charges or team members. Understanding how to maximize each individual’s potential requires you to appraise their strengths and weaknesses.
Those who prefer their own company may struggle in a field like social work. A life coach, for example, may only work with one client at a time.
Coaching is like being a human GPS system. You must have the ability to guide others, whether by instruction, emotional fortitude, or some other means. You also need excellent people reading skills to guide others to their goals. And like a GPS, it isn’t always conducive to the needs of solitary workers.
#4. Recruiter
It takes more than simply good people skills to make it as a recruiter. Ability to market prospects to clients and meet their needs through negotiation is also essential.
You need to be able to market yourself and your product to others. You’ll need to be proficient at sourcing applicants, conducting interviews, and maintaining communication with them as the hiring process progresses.
You need excellent people skills and the ability to negotiate and communicate with clients if you want to succeed as a recruiter. Jobs in recruitment might be tough for an introvert because of the quick pace and variety of abilities necessary.
#5. Waiter/Waitress
It’s not easy being a server. The social butterfly may feel like they’re in hell. It’s not necessary to be outgoing to be successful in this field, therefore introverts should feel comfortable considering it. All clients deserve courteous service. Depending on your place of employment, you might rapidly become acquainted with the regulars. It’s possible that getting used to the new surroundings will make you feel better.
But why take the chance of making the worst decision for your career? You’re hired because you’re outgoing and can make conversation with customers during your shift. Your job as a server will reward you for your outgoing personality. Your natural disposition is to be reserved and quiet in social situations. What’s the price of pretending to be someone you’re not? Between the bussers, porters, cooks, and patrons, the only quiet place is the restroom. The manager hopes that everyone who visits the restaurant has a good time. Individuals who are more comfortable working alone need not apply.
Conclusion
Being an introvert in the workforce can be challenging, but there are plenty of roles that are ideal for people with quiet, cautious personalities.
Introverts should look for professions where they have plenty of autonomy and can choose between working in a small team or on their own.
Even if most of the communication in management is done in writing or takes up a relatively small portion of the workday, management is not out of the question for an introvert. There are plenty of jobs that offer above-average pay and are suitable for introverts preferences even without a degree or you are struggling with anxiety.
Best Career for Introverts FAQs
Are Introverts Shy People?
Despite popular belief, introverts are not necessarily shy. Introversion describes a sort of person, while shyness describes a feeling. Shy people often struggle to relax and enjoy themselves when they’re in the company of others, especially when they’re meeting new people.
Can I Make Six Figures as an Introvert?
According to the numbers, if you’re an extrovert, you have a better chance of succeeding financially. The average salary of an extrovert is higher than that of an introvert. However, this does not exclude introverts from achieving great success and earning six figures or more.
Related Articles
- BEST JOBS FOR INTROVERTS: How To Earn As An Introvert.
- TOP 33 HIGHEST PAYING JOBS WITHOUT A DEGREE OR EXPERIENCE IN 2023
- HOW MUCH DOES A HOUSE COST IN US IN 2023.
- CAREERS FOR INTROVERTS: Top Paying & Satisfying Jobs in 2023