Does Your Personality Matter in a Job?
Personality factors can determine an individual's chances for success on the job. Human resources departments and hiring managers may use personality tests to match job applicants with the best position in the company. Students and those considering a career change can take personality tests to help determine the type of career they should pursue.
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Introverted Personalities
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Careers that require solitude, such as research, are well suited to those with introverted personalities. Additional career opportunities for introverts include science, accounting, online business, economist and artistic positions. An introverted personality does not require a career of complete solitude; you may simply prefer a position that does not require a great deal of interaction with coworkers or outside clients and customers.
Outgoing Personalities
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Positions that require individuals to work in sales, with the public or as part of a team are suited to extroverted personalities. Introverted individuals working in positions that require a great deal of interaction may find the job difficult and less satisfying, and may not have as much success in such career fields.
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Personality Inventories
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Human resources managers may use personality inventories and tests to sort candidates for a position. The personality tests help employment counselors suggest career paths for clients and match employers with job seekers. A personality inventory may help students select a career goal and the degree program required to attain that goal. Personality tests and inventories determine the test taker’s personality by asking questions about preferences.
Job Satisfaction
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Individuals who select careers suited to their personalities experience greater job satisfaction, which can lead to advancement and success. Employees working in a position that does not suit their personality types may find the work difficult and less interesting, which can cause burnout, poor performance and lower productivity. A career choice based on preferences and personality can lead to greater personal success than choices based only on income potential.
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