How to Find a Career That Has INFJ Written All Over It

INFJs are the world's rarest personality type, and that means they have different needs and desires when it comes to finding happiness at work. While other people may be content with having a job, a paycheck or status, INFJs are looking for something more—they want to use their creative abilities AND get things organized AND make a difference AND and feel like their work has meaning.

And ideally, they want to do all of that for a boss who gives them plenty of autonomy and independence. In a workspace with actual walls so they're not constantly interrupted. And with colleagues who respect their need for quiet, contemplative time.

It's a big ask, but it's not impossible to find a career that meets all of an INFJ's needs. Here's how to go about it, step by step.

#1: Take a Career Aptitude Test

This is the first, most obvious step. You know that you're an INFJ, so you are familiar with the concept of personality testing and may have taken multiple tests before. But career aptitude tests work a little differently than personality tests like Typefinder. They measure your interests, values, motivations just like a personality test does, but then they match that data to job titles and career paths that might be a good fit for you.

It will help you discover jobs that are right up your alley that you had never considered before.

There are lots of career aptitude tests to pick from, and they're not all equally good. Some are free and some cost money, so do a little research before you commit. Or take Truity's Career Personality Profiler. Based on science-backed theories and research, it has lots of  data behind it and super-high customer ratings, so you can be confident in your results.

#2: Rule Out What Jobs You'd Hate

Career aptitude tests will match you up with jobs across the whole spectrum of industries, sectors and job types. But everyone feels pulled in some directions over others. If you absolutely cannot stand the sight of blood, for example, strike 'Nurse' from your possibilities list. If you will consider an office job only as a last resort, put those options on the back burner.

INFJs are open minded, which is great, but it also means you can easily get overwhelmed by too many choices. You get impulsive under extreme stress which is the opposite of the careful, thoughtful decision-making you're really after. So take some time to narrow the list of options and reduce overwhelm.

#3: Think About Your Strengths

Are there specific skills or strengths that pop up in every assessment, test or quiz you take? Do you find yourself using the same skills over and over again, even in unlikely scenarios? For example, maybe you are on a sports team but instead of practicing the game, you spend more time counseling your teammates on their personal issues.

INFJs have a unique set of strengths that make them stand out from the crowd. Your personality test and career aptitude tests might have already pointed out some, but it's worth taking a deeper dive and identifying the ones that make sense to you. Maybe you're particularly good at problem solving and have a knack for creative solutions. Maybe you're highly empathetic. Maybe you are so empathetic that you would classify yourself as a Highly Sensitive Person, which means that "high empathy" jobs (like therapists, teachers, social workers) may actually be too much for you to handle and are best avoided.

Identify your strengths and over-strengths. This can tell you a lot about what you really need in a career.

#4: Explore the INFJ Way

There are many ways to explore the careers that you have on your shortlist—job shadowing, volunteering and internships are all great ways to get a behind the scenes look at different jobs. But as an INFJ, you might also find value in researching and exploring careers in a more introverted way.

For example, start by reading up on different industries and job titles that appeal to you. Look for blogs and articles written by people who  have those jobs—what do they like about it? What challenges do they face? Do you connect with these people through their words? Does it feel like you could work with them?

Then, set up some informational interviews. These are short, informal conversations with people who can offer insights on a specific job or industry. But don't just ask the usual questions ("What do you like about your job?" "How did you get into it?"). Instead, be brazen about the issues that matter to you—how deeply do you know your clients or customers? How do you make a difference to the lives of others? How often do you deal with people who are defensive, or angry? How does your job fit into your life outside of work?

#5: Don't Be Afraid to Mash Things Up

There is a big difference between being a corporate lawyer and being a human rights lawyer. A big difference between a high school principal and a special needs educator.  A big difference between a physiotherapist and a holistic acupuncturist. A big difference between being a marketing manager for a global brand and one who works with startups. So before you consign a career to the "not for me" category, think about how you could mash it up with other skills and interests.

Maybe you can't stand the idea of working in a large company, but you love consumer psychology. Could you become a freelance digital marketer, where you have the freedom to choose your own clients and work from home? Or maybe you love the idea of working with animals, but don't want to become a veterinarian. Could you combine your passion for animal welfare with your skills in research and writing to work as a communications or fundraising specialist for an animal rights organization?

The possibilities are endless when you're open-minded and willing to think outside the box.

#6: Keep an Eye on Your Career Motivations

As an INFJ, your motivations may differ from others in terms of what drives you towards certain careers. While many people prioritize financial stability, status or prestige, INFJs may be more motivated by the desire to make a difference in the world or help others. This means that even if a particular career may not seem like the most lucrative or impressive, it could still be a perfect fit for you if it aligns with your core values and motivations.

Don't let societal pressures or expectations steer you away from a career that truly speaks to your heart. Follow your passions and motivations, and you'll find fulfillment in whatever path you choose. And remember, careers are not set in stone—it's never too late to switch gears and pursue something that truly resonates with you as an INFJ. Trust your instincts and trust the journey towards finding the perfect career for you.