Not sure what the right career is for you? Let the Myers Briggs career test help you!

Whether you are a new job seeker or looking to jump-start your career, it can be a daunting prospect to place your first foot on a new career direction. Answering the age-old question of, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” springs to mind! 

Investing time and energy to figure out whether your career choices are going to make you both happy and fulfilled is time well spent. If you aren’t 100 percent sure whether a career is the right one for you, or you are comparing some different career options before taking the plunge, there are some tools that can help guide you when making these important decisions. One of these tools is the Myers Briggs career test. 

In this article we explore:

• What is the Myers Briggs test?

• Identify your Myers Briggs personality type

• Jobs that match your Myers Briggs personality type

What is the Myers Briggs test?

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test is an introspective, self-assessment questionnaire that evaluates and codifies personality types. Devised by mother-daughter duo Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers, the test was created to help American women during World War II to find jobs that were a great fit for their personalities.

The Myers Briggs test consists of four different scales: 

1. Introversion vs. Extraversion - represented as I or E   

2. Sensing vs. Intuition - represented as S or N

3. Thinking vs. Feeling - represented as T or F

4. Judging vs. Perceiving - represented as J or P

Within the Myers Briggs test there are 16 different personality types. Each type is reflected by a letter from each of the four scales that aligns with your personality the most. For example, if you lean toward being introverted, intuitive, thinking, and perceiving, you would be considered personality type INTP.  

Identify your Myers Briggs personality type

Now that you have the background to the Myers Briggs career test, you can identify which personality type most represents you, and whether this provides some credence to your next career move. Here are some insights into the four personality assessment areas:

1. Introversion vs. Extraversion

Do you prefer calmer, less energized environments and thrive when working in a smaller group? Are you thoughtful and reflective when making a decision? If so, you’re likely to be an introverted type, identified as an “I.”  

On the opposite side of the scale, extroverts tend to be more outgoing and action-oriented. They enjoy social interactions and feel more energized following these interactions. If you identify with these attributes, then your personality type is closer to an “E.”  

2. Sensing vs. Intuition

This scale is focused on how people process information in their daily lives. Sensors (or “S”) are individuals who are realistic, fact-based problem solvers, and prefer to rely on specific past experiences when taking action.

Intuitives (“N” types) rely on their inner feelings and the impressions of the world around them to make decisions, leading to more abstract ideas and thoughts. This can be invaluable in a career that requires big-picture thinking and creative problem solving.

3. Thinking vs. Feeling

Thinking personalities (“T” types) apply a logical approach to decisions, weigh up pros and cons, and have a desire to be honest, fair, and truthful. Feelers (or “F” types) rely more on their emotions to make decisions about people and events, taking into account their personal values and the impact of their actions on others.

4. Judging vs. Perceiving

If you rate highly on the judging scale (“J” type) you prefer a more structured environment and are task-oriented, with great planning capabilities and a preference for following the rules. Alternatively perceiving personalities (“P” type) are open-minded, flexible, and spontaneous.

Jobs that match your Myers Briggs personality type

Once you have taken the Myers Briggs test, it’s good to know what types of roles may be a great career match. Here is a breakdown of the 16 different personality types, with characteristics and examples of suitable career paths:

1. The Inspector (ISTJ)

Inspector types are logical, analytical, and highly organized in the workplace. They are loyal, hard working, follow the rules, and thrive in work environments that are more predictable. If you’re an ISTJ personality type, you may want to consider the following roles:

• Accountant

• Dentist

• Business Analyst

• Software Developer

2. The Counselor (INFJ)

If your personality type falls into the INFJ category, you are likely to be creative, intuitive,

empathetic, and caring. INFJs are keen to make connections and help others through their work. Great jobs for INFJs include:

• Counselor

• Writer

• Professor

• Psychologist

• Scientist

3. The Nurturer (ISFJ)

Nurturers are altruistic, reliable, sensitive, and extremely generous. They focus on helping others as much as possible, value harmony and cooperation, and are dedicated to their work. Great career paths for ISFJs include:

• Teacher

• Social worker

• Librarian

• Physician

4. The Mastermind (INTJ)

INTJs are problem-solvers, innovators, and consistently deliver work of the highest standards. They are comfortable working independently and are committed to continual improvement, both personally and professionally. Suitable career paths include:

• Photographer

• Architect

• Statistician

• Financial advisor

5. The Craftsperson (ISTP)

ISTPs are naturally curious, practical, and observant, with an innate knack for troubleshooting. They balance a rational and logical approach with spontaneity and being able to think quickly on their feet. Top careers for ISTPs include:

• Detective

• Engineer

• Forensic scientist

• Mechanic

• Construction worker

6. The Composer (ISFP)

Composers look for meaning in their work. They prefer a collaborative and harmonious work environment, where they can meet people and uncover new experiences. ISFPs tend to thrive in some of the following roles:

• Pharmacist

• Bookkeeper

• Archeologist

• Social media manager

• Veterinarian

7. The Idealist (INFP)

INFPs are imaginative idealists, who are energized by time alone, and like to focus on concepts and ideas instead of facts and details. They are creative, spontaneous, sensitive, and compassionate. Suitable career paths include:

• Artist

• Mental health professional

• Copywriter

• HR manager

8. The Architect (INTP)

Architects are great at big-picture thinking and solving complex problems in a unique and creative way. As a result, they flourish in creative environments, where they aren’t limited by rules and bureaucracy. Here are some INTP jobs to consider:

• Biomedical engineer

• Professor

• Web developer

• Creative director

9. The Powerhouse (ESTP)

ESTPs are dynamic, outgoing, and energetic individuals, who tend to thrive in fast-paced, action-focused roles that also require strong people skills. ESTP career matches include:

• Entrepreneur

• Sales manager

• Paramedic

• Project coordinator 

10. The Performer (ESFP)

Performers love the spotlight and ESFP personality types are no different. Warm, fun, generous, and lively, as well as being concerned about the well-being of others, are key attributes of ESFP personalities. Here are some ideal career options:

• Event manager

• Entertainer

• Sales representative

• Career coach

11. The Champion (ENFP)

ENFPs are known for their unique thoughts, actions, habits, and ideas. They excel in a more casual work environment, where passion, intuition, and perception are key drivers to success. Careers for ENFPs include:

• Musician

• Editor

• Reporter

• Product manager

• Personal trainer

12. The Visionary (ENTP)

Visionary types are intelligent, logical, objective, and are on a constant quest to be mentally stimulated. ENTPs are focused on conceptual work, complex problem-solving, and are not keen on working in hierarchical work environments. Ideal careers for ENTPs include:

• Lawyer

• Engineer

• Operations manager

• Systems analyst

13. The Supervisor (ESTJ)

ESTJs like to take the lead in the workplace and have strong skills in managing and organizing people, projects, and operations. They prefer a structured work environment with clear expectations, and are often the go-to person for advice and support. Careers for ESTJs include:

• Law enforcement officer

• Chef

• Real estate agent

• Financial officer

14. The Provider (ESFJ)

Providers are extremely sociable, caring, and team-focused, so they thrive in roles that involve interaction with customers and colleagues. ESFJs look for harmony and collaboration in the workplace, so they tend to gravitate toward roles involving social order. Career paths include:

• Nurse

• Elementary teacher

• Event coordinator

• Minister

• Museum curator

15. The Teacher (ENFJ)

ENFJs are extremely people-focused, idealistic, and intuitive. They are committed to helping others achieve their goals, applying their creativity, drive, and strong leadership skills to ensure success. ENFJs should consider careers such as:

• Public relations specialist

• Guidance counselor

• College instructor

• HR director  

16. The Commander (ENTJ)

Commanders are strategic, charismatic leaders,  with a laser-focused on driving performance improvement. Capable of tough decision-making, ENTJs are quick to resolve problems and apply a rational approach to achieve goals and objectives. Ideal career paths include:

• Judge

• Coach

• Hotel manager

• Network administrator

Key takeaways

1. The Myers Brigg test is a well-known and respected tool that enables you to assess your personality and provide some insight toward suitable career paths.

2. Be honest when completing the assessment. Don’t let your assigned four-letter code define you as this may change over time and life can also throw some curveballs.

3. Identifying your individual strengths and building self-awareness is a great way to ensure your continued happiness and career success.