Best jobs for introverts

From accounting to construction and journalism, many agree their dream job is one that is interesting and stimulating, and plays into their passions.

A thread on Reddit from 2024, with comments more recently, had some real-life experiences from introverts sharing about their dream jobs, and why they enjoyed those jobs. We've compiled 13 of the most interesting comments from that thread for your reading below, including not just the jobs but the cultures, bosses, and environments introverts seek:

1. "I work as a delivery driver for Amazon. I only talk with the other guys in the morning when we get our keys and just say 'have a nice day' to customers, no sustained chatting."

2. "I’m a construction worker and I like it because it’s acceptable to be grumpy."

3. "I do medical transcription. 99% of my communication consists of emails or texts."

4. "Every introvert is different, so the best jobs for them are the jobs that they love and have passion for. Always follow your heart rather than your head."

5. "I work in accounting. I sit in my cubicle, have my headphones in all day and have limited interaction with anyone else."

6. "Anything working from home, self employed, truck driver, postman, gardener, dog walker, overnight shift at supermarkets."

7. "Btw dishwasher isn’t a bad job for introverts, you have to work with a kitchen team but that (is something) most people can get used to."

8. "Something that is interesting and stimulating to you! I work in a very busy office, my deskmate is probably the loudest, most outgoing, always talkative person you'll ever meet. I find her very intelligent, she's great at discussing work ideas productively, and we have similar interests. So I'm happy to talk to her."

9. "Like many introverts, I find conversation with people I find interesting, talking about subjects I'm interested in, to be enjoyable and stimulating. It's the generic, empty chit chat that I don't enjoy."

10. "Software engineer. Work remote, average of 3 meetings a week which all take 5 mins or less. You don't really get bothered if you do your work."

11. "Something that can be done remotely, self paced, pays well. You manage your time, schedule, and workload. Something that's not too monotonous but still has some structure."

12. "I’m an analyst related to cybercrime. I love it honestly and despite being an introvert I don't mind socialising."

13. "I'm a journalist always around people. Interviewing people, working with people in the newsroom, being on radio. I love what I do and it's really helped me become more confident. I'm able to wear the mask of a 'people person' with ease."

*Comments have been edited for clarity and brevity. 

In research previously published, business psychologist Lee Chambers, had defined introverts' working style as: “Introverts have lower environmental needs, and less stimulation, which means they are more likely to value autonomy and manage themselves, remaining motivated. They are likely to be mindful and present, making those who they work with feeling heard and valued, and this is a powerful leadership quality."

He also classified introverts as typically being thoughtful and reflective, a trait which helps them speak with authority and look at the bigger picture.

Chambers added: "By their very nature, they tend to be able to articulate their feelings well verbally and in writing, making them strong at responding effectively if given time and space. And more often than not, they take feedback and reflect on how they can improve, developing themselves if managed effectively.”

ALSO READ: How to bring your introverted employees out of their shells