John Holland’s theory of career choice, also known as the Holland Codes or the RIASEC model, suggests that individuals possess specific personality types that align with certain work environments and career choices. And so will be more satisfied and successful in careers that match their personality.
There are six distinct groups, often referred to by the acronym RIASEC:
- Realistic (Doers): These are practical, hands-on folks, who enjoy working with tools and machines. They prefer physical activities and have good mechanical skills.
- Investigative (Thinkers): Investigative people are analytical, curious, and enjoy solving problems. They often prefer scientific and intellectual positions.
- Artistic (Creators): Artistic individuals are creative, imaginative, and enjoy expressing themselves through various forms of art. They enjoy being original and expressing themselves.
- Social (Helpers): Social people are empathetic, nurturing, and love to interact with others, often in a helping capacity. They have great interpersonal skills and want to have a positive impact on the lives of those they work with.
- Enterprising (Persuaders): Enterprising individuals are ambitious, assertive, and enjoy being in charge They have strong persuasive and leadership skills.
- Conventional (Organizers): Conventional individuals are pay attention to detail, are very organized, and elike working with data, numbers, and procedures. They prefer a work environment that is well structured.
Some examples of work related to the different groups:
- Realistic: Involve hands-on, practical work, often in fields such as construction, engineering, agriculture, or skilled trades.
- Investigative: Involve research, analysis, and problem-solving, often found in scientific, technological, or academic settings.
- Artistic: Involve creative expression, such as in the fields of visual arts, performing arts, writing, or design.
- Social : Include helping, teaching, , often in fields such as counseling, education, healthcare, or social work.
- Enterprising leadership, persuasion, and business-related activities, typically in sales, marketing, entrepreneurship, or management roles.
- Conventional Environment: These environments involve structured, organized, and detail-oriented work, such as in finance, administration, data analysis, or office management.
Of course, things aren’t always so straightforward! Many people fit into two or more groups. So this should only be used as a guide and not a complete system.