Jobs for Extroverts

Extroverts enjoy working with people.

Extroverts are energized by being around people. They feel comfortable in crowds. Extroverts' outgoing personalities and engaging natures make them ideal candidates for jobs that require interaction with people or speaking to groups. Extroverts outnumber introverts by 3 to 1, so there is plenty of competition for these jobs that are appealing to those with people skills.

Politics

Politicians need to connect with the people they represent. They need to respond to the needs and opinions of other people, or those same people will vote them out of office. A job with such public scrutiny would cause most introverts to shy away from professions in politics, but extroverts can thrive, taking pleasure in connecting with so many people and the public recognition that comes with holding office.

Besides public office, extroverts work in politics as pollsters, media strategists, campaign staffers and legislative aides.

Finance

It takes social savvy to advise people on what to do with their money, making jobs in finance ideal for extroverts. Stockbrokers and financial planners need to build client bases, understand their clients' financial goals and limitations, and act accordingly. Investment bankers connect businesses that need money with investors. Credit counselors help people manage debt and negotiate with creditors.

Communication

Extroverts feel comfortable talking to others, especially if they have something to say. Jobs in communication, where their voices have opportunity to be heard, are good careers for extroverts. Journalists talk to people all day long, investigating stories and asking questions others are afraid to ask. Newscasters deliver the news to a camera, which broadcasts to thousands, perhaps millions of people. Public relations specialists are comfortable seeking media attention and manipulating the public opinion of their clients or companies.

Business

An extrovert's skill in talking to strangers with authority makes her an excellent salesperson. Sales trainers and human resources specialists work with employees and potential employees. Recruiters are in the business of finding people to fill positions, which requires a personality type that doesn't mind reaching out to many people to find qualified employees.

Law

Attorneys need to defend a position or person, which takes a personality type that doesn't shrink from a debate. Extroverts also make good judges because of their comfort in being the only voice in a room.

References

• University of Texas Health Leader; Introverts vs Extroverts; Drs. Blair and Rita Justice
• Do What You Are; Paul D. and Barbara Barron Tieger; 1992
• CNN; Six Figure Jobs: Politics as a Career; Jeanne Sahadi; January 7, 2005
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents