Introverts are typically quieter and more reserved than extroverts. They tend to be more focused on internal thoughts and feelings, and get energy from being alone. They're also better suited to some jobs than others, according to a new report from job search site CareerCast.com.
Susan Cain, author of "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," says introverts can be very social, but because they tend to reach equilibrium in quieter, lower-key environments, professions like astronomer and film editor are a better fit for them.
"They typically prefer jobs that offer some autonomy, privacy, focus, and the ability to work in-depth on interesting projects," Cain says. "Many introverts are in seemingly extroverted professions (such as media and PR) because of their love for the subject, [but] the successful ones honor their own temperament and make sure to recharge their batteries frequently."
All providing independence, strong projected growth, and decent pay, CareerCast.com has identified the following 10 jobs as the best suited to introverted job seekers:
Animal Care and Service Workers
Annual median salary: $19,970 (caretakers)/$25,270 (trainers)
Projected growth by 2020: 15%
Archivist
Annual median salary: $47,340
Projected growth by 2020: 11%
Astronomer
Annual median salary: $96,460
Projected growth by 2020: 10%
Court Reporter
Annual median salary: $48,160
Projected growth by 2020: 10%
Film/Video Editor
Annual median salary: $51,300
Projected growth by 2020: 3%
Financial Clerk
Annual median salary: $36,850
Projected growth by 2020: 11%
Geoscientist
Annual median salary: $90,890
Projected growth by 2020: 16%
Industrial Machine Repairer
Annual median salary: $46,920
Projected growth by 2020: 17%
Medical Records Technician
Annual median salary: $34,160
Projected growth by 2020: 22%
Social Media Manager
Annual median salary: $54,170
Projected growth by 2020: 12%
"You wouldn't think that a job with 'social' right in the name is suited to introverts, but it's a great fit," said Tony Lee, publisher of CareerCast, in a release. "While in-person interaction may not be an introvert's cup of tea, technological outlets allow an introvert to maintain person-to-person communication electronically without the stresses of actual conversation."