ISFJ
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The ISFJ at Work

At work, the ISFJ is motivated by the desire to help others in a practical, organized way. ISFJs are driven by their core of personal values, which often include upholding tradition, taking care of others, and working hard.

ISFJs enjoy work that requires careful attention to detail and adherence to established procedures, and like to be efficient and structured in their completion of tasks. They prefer an explicit authority structure and clear expectations.

ISFJs usually prefer to work behind the scenes, and like to receive recognition in a low-key way without being required to present their work publicly. They want to feel that they have fulfilled their duties, but do not want to be thrust into the spotlight.

An ideal job for an ISFJ involves well-defined work tasks that achieve a concrete or observable result, and does not require a lot of multi-tasking. An ideal work environment for an ISFJ is orderly, provides plenty of privacy, and includes colleagues who share the ISFJ’s values.

Top Careers for the ISFJ

Top careers for the ISFJ include:

Community and Social Service
Life, Physical, and Social Science
Healthcare
Education, Training, and Library
Office and Administrative Support
Personal Care and Service
Business and Financial
Math
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
Production
Architecture and Engineering
Transportation and Material Moving
Construction and Extraction
Protective Service
Legal
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
Sales
Management

The ISFJ on a Team

ISFJs are supportive, organized team members who attend to the needs of the people around them and follow procedures to get things done. ISFJs are not often interested in leading a team, but may naturally take on the role of group secretary, keeping meticulous notes and accurately recalling facts and details that are important to the group process.

ISFJs are sensitive to the concerns and emotions of others and do best on cooperative teams where there is not too much conflict. ISFJs typically feel most secure on a team where everyone adheres to established rules and procedures; they generally believe that people get along best when they all follow the rules. Team members who question the rules—or worse, ignore them outright—may upset the ISFJ, who wants a harmonious, predictable environment.

For more information: What's Your Type of Career?

The ISFJ as a Leader

In leadership positions, ISFJs tend to be traditional, helpful, and realistic. They are focused on what can be done to help others in a practical, responsible way. ISFJs are often reluctant to take leadership roles, but are committed to doing their duty and will take on a leadership position if asked to.

ISFJs are loyal to organizations and follow established procedures meticulously. They have a strong belief in authority and respect for hierarchy, and will expect the same from their teams. Because they tend to prefer working behind the scenes, they may exercise influence primarily by building strong relationships with others.

ISFJ Careers to Avoid

It is important to note that any personality type can be successful in any occupation. However, some occupations are well suited to the natural talents and preferred work style of the ISFJ, while other occupations demand modes of thinking and behavior that do not come as naturally to the ISFJ. Occupations that require the ISFJ to operate outside their natural preferences may prove stressful or draining, and often sound unappealing to ISFJs who are choosing a career.

The following occupations have been found to be unpopular among ISFJs, based on data gathered from surveys of the general population.

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About the Author

Molly Owens is the CEO of Truity and holds a master's degree in counseling psychology. She founded Truity in 2012, with the goal of making quality personality tests more affordable and accessible. She has led the development of assessments based on Myers and Briggs' personality types, Holland Codes, the Big Five, DISC, and the Enneagram. She is an ENTP, a tireless brainstormer, and a wildly messy chef. Find Molly on Twitter at @mollmown.

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