Matching MBTI Personality Types with Ideal Jobs

"I'm an emotionless INTP," "I'm a joyful troublemaker, an ENTP!" "ISFJs must be great caregivers, right?" "INFJs, on the other hand, probably want to feel a lot of love."...

At some point, MBTI started gradually infiltrating our lives. While people used to share their horoscopes on social media, it's now common to reveal one's MBTI personality type.

MBTI stands for the Myers–Briggs Type Indication, a personality type theory based on Carl Jung's classification of eight psychological types.

MBTI Relation to Job Roles

16 personalities

Not only can you see MBTI mentioned in everyday life, but many companies also incorporate personality tests and assessments to varying degrees in their interview processes. Many top companies include a personality assessment as part of their hiring process, today, MBTI in the workplace is a norm. 

So, when thinking about your future career, returning graduates can also consider their MBTI personality type to help in choosing the right career path and job roles.

So, what unique qualities do each MBTI personality type possess, and what kind of job roles are they best suited for? Let me break it down for you:

SJ Personality Types: The Guardians

 a group of people supporting each other up the stairs, embodying the SJ personality

SJ personality types are known for their commitment to their inner principles. If it's something they believe in, they will go to great lengths to protect it. They are often referred to as "Guardians of Order."

  • ESTJ, known as "the Executive," embodies these qualities most effectively. They are honest, dedicated, dignified, offer clear advice and guidance, and are willing to lead others through challenges. As a result, ESTJs are well-suited for roles as project managers or various leadership positions.

  • ISTJ personality types, often referred to as "Logisticians," might be less assertive. They are rule followers and take pride in doing whatever it takes to achieve goals. They don't shy away from investing time and effort, displaying patience and precision in every task. Roles like actuaries, quality control managers, and security analysts are ideal for ISTJ personality types.

  • ESFJs are warm and nurturing, enjoying taking care of others, while also preserving SJ's discipline. These types are well-suited for roles in HR or positions involving guidance, often referred to as "Executives."

  • ISFJs are gentle, good listeners, and pillars of support in the workplace. They are dependable, diligent, and always ready to lend a helping hand. ISFJs often find great satisfaction in careers that promote the growth, recovery, and progress of others, such as teaching and social welfare work.

SP Personality Types: The Explorers

Men and women exploring, embodying the SP personalities

SP personality types are closely associated with exploration. They love to explore, enjoy new experiences, and display flexibility and adaptability in social interactions.

  • ESFP, the "Performer," is the most typical SP personality. They are adventurous and fun-loving, embracing the spotlight, as the world is their stage. Many famous individuals with this personality type are actors, and they excel in careers like event planning, sales, hosting, and guiding. They can adapt to different situations and create a passionate atmosphere.

  • ISFP personality type is more reserved but maintains a strong desire for exploration. Their attention to detail and creativity often lead them to excel in fields like arts, design, photography, and various design-related roles across different industries.

  • ISTP, known as the "Craftsman," and ESTP, the "Entrepreneur," are inclined toward deep exploration. They have a strong passion and curiosity for a specific area of expertise. ISTPs are well-suited for careers such as journalism, architecture, programming, mathematics, physics, analysis, research, and science-related work. 

  • ESTPs excel in more socially oriented careers, such as law or public relations.

NF Personality Types: The Diplomats

NF personality types are idealists, often generous with praise and eager to help. They typically play roles in humanistic creation and education.

  • INFP, the "Mediator," is the most representative NF personality type. They have a positive vision for the world and aim to build a better society through their efforts. With their high empathy, INFPs excel in roles like counselling, humanities teaching, or hosting interview programs.

  • ENFP, often called the "Champion," are known for their ability to create an uplifting atmosphere and maintain an optimistic outlook on life. They are found in careers such as public speaking, comedy, or personal brand management, where they can make an infectious impact on others.

  • INFJs, referred to as "Old Souls," are driven by idealism and a strong sense of ethics. They don't just talk about changing the world; they put in the work to do it. They are practical and great at accomplishing their goals. INFJs often find fulfilment in professions like writing or music where they can express their creativity.

  • ENFJ personalities exude natural confidence and have strong leadership abilities. Their leadership style is marked by care and altruism, making subordinates feel their enthusiasm and warmth. They excel in people-oriented fields, such as HR, event management, recruiting, and public relations. In positions where they can guide others to learn, grow, and become more independent, they often feel particularly motivated.

NT Personality Types: The Analysts

Woman comforting her friend, embodying the NT personality

NT personality types are characterized by stability, a strong academic orientation, and a rational approach to everything. They enjoy theoretical research and excel in building logical systems through the exploration of truth.

  • INTP, the "Logician," excels in theoretical research and is known for making significant contributions to science. They are well-suited for roles as product designers, science teachers, mathematicians, physicists, analysts, researchers, and scientists.

  • ENTP, the "Debater," possesses a highly adaptable mind and can effortlessly switch from one idea to another. They cherish opportunities to learn new things and gradually accumulate knowledge to enrich their logical systems. Careers like project planners and operations directors suit ENTPs well.

  • INTJ, known as the "Architect," is the most independent personality type. They are full of ideas and motivation when it comes to achieving their goals. Once they decide to do something, they plan meticulously and persist until completion. They are adept at collecting and integrating information. Positions such as business strategists and investment experts often attract INTJ personalities.

  • Commander ENTJs are skilled at discovering potential in various matters and enjoy guiding others. They are long-term planners and flexible thinkers. Careers like judges and government officials often suit ENTJ personality types.

MBTI in Company Interview

MBTI can indeed provide valuable guidance for future careers rather than being merely a topic of casual conversation among friends. The purpose of company-administered personality tests during interviews is to assess how well applicants align with the job they're applying for. Companies use these tests to determine the level of fit between you and the position they are hiring for, as well as your potential for future growth.

Each MBTI personality has its unique charm. It can help us better understand our characteristics. However, it's important to remember that each individual is unique.

In addition to considering MBTI personality traits, discover your unique strengths and qualities that set you apart from others. This will be a valuable asset that makes you shine in the workplace!

In Summary

MBTI, or the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator, has become a common way to understand and communicate personality traits. Beyond social conversations, many companies integrate MBTI in the workplace, such as incorporating personality tests into their hiring processes to gauge an applicant's compatibility with specific job roles. 

By understanding the unique qualities of each MBTI personality type, individuals can make more informed career choices and potentially excel in positions that align with their innate characteristics. It's essential to remember that every person is unique, and individual strengths should also be celebrated in the workplace. Aniday wishes you the best as you discover your own personality type and excel in whatever you do!