Career Interests

A Theory of Career Interests

The idea of career interests has been made famous by the work of John Holland, an American psychologist who has been researching this area for over 30 years. His theory is based on the following main ideas:

People can be generally described using six categories of interests and attitudes that capture the spirit of the individuals they profile.
People are best described using combinations of these categories. Most people can be best described using two or three categories.

The categories that represent an individuals interests are the result of many influences, including family, upbringing, cultural environment, educational opportunities, school and work experience and so on.
Occupations can also be described using the same six categories.
Work environments also have distinct characteristics, and can equally be classified using the same six categories
People who work in occupations and environments that have related characteristics are more likely to feel comfortable and motivated with their work and develop satisfying careers

Discover your Career Interests with our Interest Profiler

Join Here

Realist

Realistic occupations involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outdoors.

Code: R

Administrative

Administrative occupations involve working with data and details more than with ideas and people. These people like clear routines and instructions, and enjoy checking facts and figures.

Code: A

Enterprising

Enterprising occupations involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Code: E

Investigative

Investigative occupations involve working with ideas and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.

Code: I

Social

Social occupations involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Code: S

Creative

Creative occupations involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

Code: C

Linguistic

Linguistic types enjoy work involving the creation and exchange of information through writing, electronic media or the spoken word. These people prefer unstructured environments where there is time to use their imagination to compose their thoughts.

Code: L

Naturalist

Naturalists like work that involves 'doing' something to 'organic things', i.e. plants, animals and their produce (e.g. food). Like Realists, Naturalists enjoy a hands-on approach and like to see tangible results.

Code: N

Knowing Yourself