Your unique personality type is suited to particular kinds of roles in the workplace. ISFPs – people with preferences for Introversion, Sensing, Feeling and Perceiving – seek work that allows them to express themselves creatively or participate in a cause they believe in, where they can see the tangible results of their labor. 

But with so many jobs to choose between, how do you narrow down the options? Let’s take a look at what an ISFP needs in a job and some of the top careers that meet those requirements. 

Watch our video about top careers for ISFPs on Youtube. 

What should an ISFP look for in a job? 

ISFPs are gentle caretakers who like to go with the flow. They are responsive, accommodating and sensitive, preferring to stay out of the spotlight and take a supporting role. 

When looking for a career that fits your ISFP personality, consider roles where you can:

  • Help others 
  • Provide gentle support 
  • Find practical solutions
  • Adapt and respond to change 

When you think about your previous jobs or volunteer positions, how have they met these requirements? How have they missed the mark?

What satisfies ISFPs at work?

To feel satisfied in their work, ISFPs need to fulfill at least three of the following factors. 

They need to do work that:

  1. Is consistent with their values and is something they care deeply about

  2. Happens in a supportive environment with cooperative colleagues

  3. Makes use of their talent for paying attention to important details

  4. Gives the freedom to work independently but near other nice people, without tension or drama 

  5. Gives a sense of purpose and allows them to see how they  help people

Let’s do a quick check on these five factors:

  • What does each factor look like for you in real life?
  • Which of these does your current job satisfy?
  • Which isn't being satisfied and how might you change that?

What are the top careers for an ISFP?

Based on those five factors, certain jobs are more likely to meet those requirements than others. Given the wide variety of careers in the world, and how industries are always changing, it's useful to keep the overall principles in mind. 

However, here are some of the top careers that ISFPs find satisfying:

In healthcare that includes:

  • Nurse
  • Occupational therapist
  • Physical therapist
  • Optician
  • Dietician
  • Fitness trainer 
  • Massage therapist 

In arts and design that includes:

  • Fashion designer 
  • Interior designer 
  • Landscape architect 
  • Florist
  • Jeweler 

In education and social services that includes:

  • Social worker
  • Translator 
  • Special education teacher
  • Firefighter
  • Police officer 
  • Air traffic controller 

In science and nature that includes:

  • Botanist, 
  • Geologist
  • Gardener
  • Mechanic
  • Surveyor 
  • Carpenter

In business that includes:

  • Retail manager 
  • Bookkeeper  
  • Paralegal 

To see more top careers for ISFPs, take a look at our detailed list here. But in summary, you are looking for jobs that are values driven, supportive, and independent with tangible results. 

What careers should an ISFP avoid?

While any personality type can be successful in any career, some occupations require ISFPs to operate outside their natural preferences, which can be draining. 

Careers like auditor, administrator, sales manager, chemical engineer or judge may not meet enough of the ISFPs career satisfiers. 

Next steps

Whether you are just starting on your career journey or wondering about a career change, taking the time to consider how to ensure your career needs are met will save you a lot of frustration in the future. 

To learn more visit our ISFP personality overview or take our free test here.

Samantha Mackay
Samantha is a certified Enneagram coach at Individuo and educator at Truity. She has found knowing her personality type (ENTP / Enneagram 7) invaluable for recovering from burnout and for working with her anxiety, chronic illnesses and pain. To work with Samantha visit www.individuo.life