What are the best jobs for introverts?
Looking for a career where you can spend a lot of time alone, focusing on what you're good at? These roles will let your quiet, reflective qualities shine.
It’s hard to pigeonhole yourself into a single personality type—we’re all individuals, after all! But if you draw most of your energy from solo activities and you need to recharge after spending time with other people, then you probably identify as an introvert.
While it’s difficult to compare one self-proclaimed introvert with the next, it's worth keeping your strengths and preferences in mind when considering a future career, so you can find something that you’ll truly excel at.
What should introverts look for in a career?
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines an introvert as a reserved or quiet person who enjoys spending time alone. They’re typically more comfortable interacting with small groups of people rather than large groups.
In her book, Quiet: The power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking, Susan Cain adds that introverts prefer a quiet, more minimally stimulating environment.
With this in mind, it’s probably best to avoid a career where you’ll need to mingle, present or interact with large groups of people every day.
So what is your ideal working environment? Research suggests you might be more comfortable in a group setting where ideas are shared. This is because introverts can be less attached to their own ideas and more willing to consider other perspectives.
There are plenty of advantages to being an introvert in the workplace. On average you’re more creative, independent, introspective and focused. If you can find a career that plays to those strengths, you’ll thrive.
The best jobs for introverts
Psychologist
Study area: Psychology and mental health
Introverts tend to be more tuned into their feelings and those of others. Why not lean into your empathy and superior listening skills by becoming a psychologist?
As Susan puts it, introverts enjoy quiet concentration, listen more than they talk, and think before they speak—skills perfectly aligned with this profession.
Study how people behave, think and feel, plus how they process information, reason and remember. You’ll learn how to guide and support them in this critical mental health role.
Average salary
The average annual salary for a psychologist in Australia ranges from $93,000 to $120,000, according to government jobs data.What to study
To become a psychologist, you’ll need to earn a bachelor degree majoring in psychology (with honours), before completing another two years of postgraduate study. If you prefer a faster study path, become a counsellor with a Bachelor of Counselling.
Communications officer
Study area: Media and communications
Although speaking in front of large groups is traditionally viewed as the ‘stuff of nightmares’ for an introvert, many careers within media and communications let you do this through digital platforms. You get to focus on telling stories and creating connections with people, places and products rather than presenting the news to an audience of millions.
A job as a communications officer could involve writing user experience friendly website content, emails, blogs, social media posts and scripts, or strategically planning communications. All tasks that require a lot of introspection to succeed.
Average salary
The average annual salary for marketing and advertising professionals in Australia ranges from $75,000 to $93,000.
What to study
Earn a Bachelor of Communication. You can specialise even further with a postgraduate degree in an area like digital communication strategy or digital and social media.
Scientist
Study area: Science
Leave people out of the equation altogether and pursue a career where you work primarily with concepts, materials and the environment.
After completing a general science-based bachelor degree, you can specialise in a range of scientific fields, including physics, biology, chemistry, astronomy or environmental science.
Science suits introverts perfectly because you excel at thinking deeply and reflecting on problems. You tend to make decisions after consideration rather than rushing into action.
Average salary
The average salary for a scientist in Australia varies depending on your area of expertise. Entry-level roles in agricultural science, chemistry, environmental science and life science, for example, start at $93,000 a year. Senior scientists can earn over $120,000 a year.
What to study
To become a scientist consider starting with a Diploma in Science to learn the basic methods, techniques and tools of science, or a Bachelor of Science, where you can major in your chosen niche.
Business analyst
Study area: IT and computer science
Researchers believe introverts tend to pay more attention, and have an advantage in processing information and solving problems. These qualities are ideal for a career as a business analyst. These savvy professionals look at data to figure out where organisations can make better decisions and become more efficient.
Average salary
The average salary for a business analyst in Australia is $93,000, with senior roles earning over $120,000 a year.
What to study
Start by studying a Bachelor of Data Analytics, followed by a Master of Data Science.
Graphic designer
Study area: Art and creative design
Introverts are often highly creative and imaginative because they immerse themselves more in their thoughts and feelings, which gives them inspiration and ideas.
Combine your creativity with technical ability by pursuing a career as a graphic designer.
Average salary
The average annual salary for a graphic designer in Australia ranges from $75,000 to $93,000.
What to study
Dip your toes into graphic design by studying a short graphic design course like Design for Digital Technologies. Or become a qualified graphic designer with a bachelor degree in design or digital media.
There's no doubt you’ll make an exceptional and conscientious employee no matter what career you choose.
To get there, consider studying in a way that also suits your needs as an introvert. When you complete your course online through Open Universities Australia, you don’t have to commute to a busy university campus. Instead, you can watch your lectures from the comfort of home, pause to reflect on classroom discussions, and write responses in your own time.
Still not sure what to study? Take our 2-minute quiz to narrow down your options.
Or book a free call with one of our friendly student advisors. They’ll help you find a study option that’s a perfect fit for your personality.
