7 Ideal Jobs For Introverts

Introverts are many times misunderstood by non-introverts. Unlike extroverts, who “refuel” their energy from other people, introverts refuel from social situations by retreating into solitude. They are sensitive, thoughtful people who work best in small groups or alone. Finding the ideal career path can be difficult for introverts. Here are seven jobs well-suited to introverts’ unique and valuable sensibilities.

Librarian

It’s definitely a stereotype, but being a librarian is, indeed, an ideal job for introverts. Generally, librarian interaction with the public is information-based, which removes a lot of stress from the normal social-based relationships around us. It’s not an easy field to break into, either. At the very least, candidates for these jobs need a master’s degree in library science.

Interpreter/Translator

Interpreters and translators generally work with just a few people or small groups of people, and the work is straightforward. They must be fluent (in writing, reading and speaking) not only English but also in their second language. Jobs usually require a bachelor’s degree, and states have different licensing and certification requirements, too.

Animal Trainer

Aside from interacting with furry friends’ human parents, animal trainers almost always work just with animals. If you’re training domesticated pets, a high school degree is generally sufficient, but if you specialize and work with marine mammals or zoo animals, a four-year degree in zoology or animal science is needed.

Web Developer

You can become a web developer with an associate degree. In this job, you’ll build websites, conduct troubleshooting and convert written, audio and video components so they’re web-compatible, among other things. Coding knowledge is involved, so you’ll need to learn that either on your own or in a class.

Statistician

As a statistician, your work is with applied or theoretical statistics. You can work in academia, for the government, in a lab or in an office. This field requires a master’s degree in mathematics or statistics. In it, you solve practical problems by applying statistical theories and methods in a variety of fields, including business and agriculture. You design analytics to collect data, analyze it and report your findings.

Writer

Writers come in all forms: novelists, bloggers, web content creators, essayists, copywriters and more. With the exception of those times when writers have to interview subjects, the profession is one that is ideal for introverts because at its very core is the ability to create in solitude. Introverts are adept at observing others, and this feature makes them ideal character developers, too. There is no educational requirement to be a successful writer, although many companies require at least a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or English.

Artist

Artists work with all manner of materials, from oil paints to ceramics, metal to wood and glass to paper. The creative process is highly personal and artists generally do their work in private studios in or near their homes. They interact with clients who commission work and gallery curators who show their work; otherwise, job contacts are usually limited to those they have with purveyors of art supplies. As with writers, there are no educational requirements needed to be a successful artist, but those looking for traditional “work” will need a bachelor’s degree in fine art or another specific art-related field.

Being an introvert doesn’t have to hold you back, as these professions show. But you might have to pull yourself out of your shell to put yourself out there to get one of them. It’s worth it if you land a job that grants you harmony and reduces stress.