INFJ Career Planning
The INFJ, or “The Advocate,” is a rare personality type that seeks meaning and purpose in everything they do. They are idealists at heart and desire a career that aligns with their deeply-held values. Navigating the career landscape can be a unique journey for INFJs, but understanding the “Career Exploration Process” tailored to their specific needs can be invaluable.
The Career Exploration Process for INFJs: A Table
| Process Step | Preferred Method for INFJs | Potential Obstacles | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Setting Goals | INFJs often seek careers that allow them to make a difference in the world. They prefer jobs where they can manifest their ideals into reality. | Sometimes, INFJs may feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of their goals or fear that their dreams are too idealistic. | Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps. Remember that every big change begins with a single step. |
| 2. Gathering Information | INFJs like to do thorough research. They often consult books, online resources, and people they trust for career insights. | They might overanalyze or become paralyzed by too much information. | Set limits on research time. Reach out to mentors or professionals in desired fields for focused advice. |
| 3. Making Contact | Networking in authentic, deep, one-on-one settings. Group networking can be overwhelming for them. | They might avoid networking events due to discomfort in superficial interactions. | Look for opportunities for intimate or one-on-one networking. Consider informational interviews or mentorships. |
| 4. Making Decisions | INFJs prefer making decisions after a lot of contemplation, ensuring alignment with their values. | Fear of making the wrong choice can lead to procrastination. | Trust in your intuition. Remember that no decision is set in stone; there’s always room to pivot if needed. |
Career Trends for INFJs:
- Counseling and Psychology: Allows them to delve deep into the human psyche and provide help.
- Non-profit Organizations: Working towards a cause is fulfilling for them.
- Writing: Especially in areas that explore human nature, morality, and ethics.
- Education: They can influence the next generation in positive ways.
- Art and Design: Especially if it’s tied to a deeper message or cause.
The INFJ, often referred to as “The Advocate” or “The Counselor,” is typically drawn to professions that allow them to use their intuition, empathy, and idealism to create meaningful change. Here’s a list of 15 attractive occupations for the INFJ personality type:
- Clinical Psychologist: Allows them to dive deep into the human psyche and provide therapeutic assistance.
- Counselor or Therapist: INFJs can use their empathetic skills to guide individuals through personal challenges.
- Social Worker: Offers a chance to help individuals navigate and overcome societal challenges.
- Non-profit Organizer/Manager: Working in a non-profit environment can align with their passion for making a difference.
- Life Coach: Helping individuals reach their full potential and find their path can be deeply fulfilling.
- Teacher or Professor: Especially in subjects that delve into human nature, morality, or philosophy.
- Writer or Author: Particularly in genres like fiction, self-help, or memoir, where they can explore human experiences and emotions.
- Librarian: Providing knowledge and resources to others in a serene environment can be appealing.
- Religious or Spiritual Leader: Guiding others on spiritual or moral journeys aligns with their need to foster deep connections and insights.
- Human Rights Advocate: Advocating for the rights and well-being of others taps into their desire for justice.
- Occupational Therapist: Helping individuals overcome physical and mental challenges can be deeply satisfying.
- Artist or Designer: Especially if their work communicates deeper messages or causes.
- Environmental Conservationist: Advocating for the planet and its creatures aligns with their broader vision for a better world.
- Musician or Composer: Music can be a medium to express deep emotions and messages.
- Researcher in Humanities or Social Sciences: Delving into understanding human behavior, history, or societal patterns can be intriguing.
For an INFJ, the ideal occupation often transcends the job’s immediate tasks. The deeper meaning, purpose, and potential for a positive impact on others are crucial factors that make a career genuinely fulfilling for them.
Potential Strengths of INFJs:
- Empathy: They have an innate ability to understand and tune into others’ feelings.
- Intuition: INFJs often have a strong sense of knowing, even if they can’t articulate why.
- Dedication: Once they set their mind on a goal, especially a purpose-driven one, they’re incredibly dedicated.
- Creativity: Their imaginative nature means they often come up with out-of-the-box solutions.
- Persuasiveness: They’re skilled at getting people on board with their visions.
In conclusion, INFJ’s journey toward finding the perfect career may be filled with introspection and the search for deeper meaning. However, by understanding their unique approach to the “Career Exploration Process” and leveraging their strengths, they can find a fulfilling career path that aligns with their values and passions.
Ken Meyer
Myers Briggs Master Practitioner and Retired Senior Career Coach at Eastern Michigan University
