ISTJ Careers

The Investigator Type

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ISTJ Careers

ISTJs tend to thrive in high-stakes environments that allow them to work autonomously and make a major impact. They enjoy using their skills in organization and logic to make important decisions.

Myers-Briggs ISTJ Energized at Work

ISTJ personality types feel energized at work when...

  • They are asked to accomplish specific tasks.
  • Their boss communicates directions clearly.
  • Their peers are hard-working and stable.
  • Their direct reports listen closely to instruction.

ISTJs love working toward professional goals. When they are given specific tasks or assignments, they’re likely to feel motivated to work efficiently. They appreciate when their boss is clear and direct, rather than vague or passive. ISTJs are likely to enjoy being a part of a team that works equally hard toward a common goal, though they prefer to work on their own, when possible.

Myers-Briggs ISTJ Drained at work

ISTJ personality types feel drained at work when...

  • They have to avoid hurting others’ feelings.
  • Their boss doesn’t optimize their time.
  • Their peers waste time on seemingly insignificant discussions.
  • Their direct reports are disrespectful.

ISTJs tend to feel frustrated when they need to filter themselves regularly. As naturally direct, assertive people, ISTJs are more comfortable telling it like it is. However, they can come off as overly harsh, at times. It’s important that ISTJs understand the importance of adapting their communication to fit the other person or people they are speaking to, even if it does mean they need to be more sensitive.

They may also grow frustrated with bosses who don’t work productively or efficiently enough. ISTJs tend to have a fool-proof way of getting work done and are likely to feel annoyed if it doesn’t seem like their boss is putting in as much effort. ISTJs might not be able to see their bosses’ side of the story, so it’s likely they’re missing important information. But, if they have a good suggestion to help their boss, they should feel free to share it in a gentle, but honest way.

ISTJs are likely to dislike peers and direct reports who are distracted or disrespectful. If they have problems with the people around them, ISTJs should communicate their thoughts empathetically with their coworkers. However, they should remain open-minded and take the time to consider the other perspectives involved.

Myers-Briggs ISTJ Common Jobs

Common jobs for people with ISTJ personality types

Military Leader

ISTJs would likely make great military leaders, as they are strong, driven, and structured. They may appreciate authority and are often comfortable enforcing rules and working toward regular, specific goals.

Surgeon

ISTJs are knowledgeable and focused - qualities that would likely serve them well as surgeons. Though they may need to work on their bedside manner when communicating with patients, ISTJs may work well in a detail-oriented role, like surgery, that requires them to remain calm and solve problems in a practical, functional way.

Accountant

ISTJs’ natural attention to detail and patience when working through a problem would probably help them work well as accountants. They tend to enjoy working closely with numbers and analyzing data, which means that a role in finance may serve them well.

Lawyer

Since they tend to feel comfortable pushing back against other people and enjoy thoroughly analyzing the details of a case, ISTJs would likely work well as lawyers. They may need to practice feeling comfortable in front of groups of people or working closely with clients. Once they learn how to communicate better with others, ISTJs may enjoy working in law.

Judge

ISTJs tend to be naturally objective people who take their time before coming to a conclusion. As judges, ISTJs would likely be able to hear both sides of the story, analyze the evidence, and make an impartial, thoughtful decision.

Police Officer

ISTJs may enjoy enforcing rules and maintaining a larger, societal structure. They tend to possess the strengths in objectivity and analysis required to serve in law enforcement.


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