Here are 10 Great Creative Careers for Introverts
Check out our creative career guide for introverts
Are you an introvert with creative interests? When it comes to thinking outside the box and the ability to channel inner creativity, introverts provide a unique perspective. Some introverts have been described as having a natural ‘artistic personality.’ In fact, some of the most famous artists tend to be labeled as emotionally tortured introverts. These stereotypes are not helpful and do not accurately represent what introverts can bring to the table. But it is indeed true that introverts have different needs and working styles.
The good news is that along with traditional fine arts jobs, we see more interdisciplinary options. There are many jobs (due to technology) related to other fields that are increasingly seeking out creatives. This means that you can have a dynamic range of interests and develop strong transferable skills. With good planning and a strong portfolio of work, you can seek out more opportunities.
In this article, we will be exploring the best creative careers for those with introverted personalities. This by no means represents professional career counseling, but rather is a guide with some suggestions for which personalities may thrive in certain fields.
There are 16 MBTI personality types, each with four letters.
Here is a basic summary of the framework which includes your preferences in four areas:
Extraversion (E) or Introversion (I) - Your response to your surroundings
Sensing (S) or Intuition (N) - Your interaction and processing of information
Thinking (T) or Feeling (F) - Your inclinations for decision-making and emotions
Judging (J) or Perceiving (P) - Your approach toward new ideas, work, and planning
If you do not know which four letters you have, you can take this personality assessment here:
https://www.16personalities.com/
(NERIS Type Explorer is a free assessment that combines the framework of MBTI along with principles of the 5 Personalities framework. We personally enjoy taking this assessment and feel it is quite reflective.)
Do not box yourself in though, as personalities and MBTI is just a reference and point of discussion. Every individual can bring something unique to the table, with their own strengths. (Extroverts can also excel in these jobs.) As a creative introvert, working in a job that allows you to express yourself authentically as well as having a suitable amount of autonomy and personal space will affect your sense of fulfillment. We would encourage you to consider any of the following jobs.
Top 10 Creative Careers for Introverts
1. Art Historian
Job Description:
As an art historian, you will be focused on studying art in a historical context. It is an area that involves academia, which entails education, research, language, and fieldwork. Depending on your interests, you could specialize in specific topics. You are the adviser for art restorations, art investments, and the guide for curators to organize exhibitions. In order to be an art historian, you need to be a great communicator, as you will be conducting lectures, presenting exhibitions, and often teaching art history to others. This is a great option for introverts because part of the job requires extensive reading and writing, which will be done in solitude.
Arts Historian is most suitable for
Introverts who have investigative preferences, enjoy conducting extensive research on art history, and have an eye for detail.
Those who enjoy critical analysis and thrive in academia, and share their knowledge with others
Creatives who are interested in history and writing, as well as passionate about visual arts and cultures
Suggested MBTI Types: INTP, ISFJ, INFJ, ISTJ
2. Art Curator
Job Description:
As an art curator, you will be managing the organization, inventory, and presentation of artworks. Art curation is a dynamic career that requires a wide range of skills. Having an art history or fine arts background is essential for this career path. Whether you work at a museum or gallery, the job will require research and writing. You will also need to be familiar with the art catalogs and budgeting. Along with organizing inventories, a huge part of this role is to prepare for exhibitions and the installation of the artwork. This job is great for creative introverts, as it provides a balance between a quiet work environment and opportunities to work with other people. You will be building long-term working relationships with artists, collectors, and educational institutes.
Art Curator is most suitable for
Creatives who enjoy a job that combines art with academia, and are interested in research, history, and writing
Those who want to utilize their critical thinking skills and creativity on a daily basis
Introverts who want a relatively quiet and formal work environment such as a museum or gallery
Assertive individuals who are organized, and able to plan for events and exhibitions
Creatives who are interested in working with art institutes, artists, and collectors.
Suggested MBTI Types: ISFP, ISTJ, INFJ, ISFJ
3. UI Designer (User Interface)
Job Description:
A UI designer works closely with UX and web developers to create optimal user experiences for technology users. It is a growing field that combines graphic design with technology design. This job requires long periods of screen time and patience. You will have to conduct meetings with UX designers, engineers, clients, or your team. While the UX designer is in charge of the overall flow and experience, the UI designer is specialized in the visual elements and details.
This job is great for patient individuals who are willing to communicate, take feedback and refine their work. It requires empathy to understand users’ needs. An understanding of UX and basic coding will help in communication with the team’s perspective. This job is great for introverts who want more time to work in solitude with the screen but also are interested in project-based jobs. Working with a team is important to make the final product successful.
UI Designer is most suitable for
Creatives who enjoy a job where graphic design meets technology to design interfaces of applications/games/websites
Introverts interested in using technical skills through digital programs (Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision, etc)
Individuals who enjoy chances to collaborate with teams
Empathetic people who communicate with clients and are empathetic about their needs
Introverted creatives who do not mind long working hours with the screen and periods of working in solitude
Patient individuals who are willing to take feedback and refine their work, as well as have an eye for detail
Suggested MBTI Types: INTJ, INTP, INFJ, ISTP
4. Digital Artist (Animator/Motion Graphic Designer)
Job Description:
Digital artists specialize in using digital processes to communicate and create art. Whether you create art for animation, game design, or motion graphics, this field requires strong technical skills and creativity. There are different specialties, but basic skills such as sketching, conceptualization, and project management skills are essential. As the work is project-based and deadline sensitive, this job is more suitable for introverts who can remain calm under pressure. You may need to work remotely or spend long hours with the design programs. Depending on your preference, you can either work in-house or as a freelancer.
Digital Artist is most suitable for
Creative Introverts who are skilled at logical thinking, and enjoy working with technology and graphics
Individuals who can work with tight deadlines and remain calm under pressure
Patient artists who have an eye for technical detail, and are willing to refine their work with constant feedback
Creatives who are passionate about creating original concepts and coming up with ways to communicate or tell stories
Introverts who do not mind a balance of long periods of screen time and team-based work
Suggested MBTI Types: INTP, INTJ, INFJ, ISTJ
5. Visual Artist
Job Description:
As a visual artist, your job will be to specialize in creating artwork. Depending on your interests, you could either practice in one medium or even show interdisciplinary skills. Specialties include but are not limited to painting, drawing, sculpting, film production, print-making, digital processes, installation, photography, and mixed media. The artworks are produced and then used for exhibition, selling, or enjoyment. The nature of this job requires periods of solitude in which you focus on creating and developing your skills. If you do not prefer working in solitude, creative collaboration provides opportunities to work with other artists.
This job is great for introverts who prefer conceptual thinking and are not afraid to take risks. It is a path that may not provide stable income or predictable schedules. It is essential that if you pursue this path, you are willing to plan and persevere. This is a job great for people who love hands-on work and digital work. You must be willing to market your work to others (agents, galleries, online customers). It is common that in order to have a stable income, you provide services or have other part-time jobs. Work for themselves or employed by a firm, company, or studio. Need to know how to use software programs to design, create, and edit artwork.
Visual Artist is most suitable for
Creative Introverts who are flexible and willing to have an unpredictable schedule and income
Introverts who can work long periods in their studio or at home creating artwork (often in solitude)
Those with an entrepreneurial spirit, and are willing to promote themselves and their work
Creatives who are passionate and committed to the practice of fine arts, and are strong in conceptual thinking, as well as artistic abilities
Introverts who have a high level of perseverance and will-power, as you will have to be self-motivated and confident in your own work
Suggested MBTI Types: INFP, INFJ, INTP, ISTP
6. Interior Designer
Job Description:
As an interior designer, you get the responsibility of creating an aesthetic vision for different spaces. This is a job that requires a knowledge of design and function. This is a great job for introverted creatives who enjoy conceptualization and working with clients face-to-face or through zoom. It is crucial for the interior designer to have sketching and design skills, along with a willingness to communicate their ideas. The success of a project will also rely on how well you understand the client’s needs. As an introvert, you can get to understand each client and what their interests are, and bring your sensitivity to details to the table.
The nature of this field also requires you to collaborate and learn from other experts, whether it be on the technical or structural side of a project. There are commercial and residential projects, both of which require different expertise. Commercial projects require a higher level of teamwork and project management skills, as there are more stakeholders involved. On the contrary, residential projects will tend to be smaller scale with more personal conversations. You will need to be willing to learn from logistical things will include safety, budget, and regulations. Creatives who have the desire to create a beautiful project from beginning to end will feel fulfilled. You will be able to bring your personal touch to each project too.
Interior Designer is most suitable for:
Creatives who have an interest in interior spaces, and design skills
Introverted who enjoys meeting clients, hearing their needs, and communicating ideas
Individuals who are hands-on (you need to understand materials/spaces/home decor) and willing to lead a project
People who work in a responsible, thorough manner, who can understand budgeting, regulations, and spatial function
Creative who do not mind working on long-term projects, as these projects may take months to complete
Suggested MBTI Types: INFP, INFJ, INTP, INTJ
7. Creative Entrepreneur
Job Description:
As a creative entrepreneur, you have to be willing to design your own product and juggle different hats. Being an introvert, you have the advantage of introspection, which means you are more in touch with your internal emotional processes. This means you probably do not mind spending time alone creating and making something on your own. You will have to juggle branding, design, marketing, customer service, product development, and creative direction in the beginning stages. If you are starting your own business, all the responsibilities will be on you until you have money to start outsourcing. You may also work with others if you prefer more social interaction. The product you choose will affect the nature of your job, so you will have to consider whether it is a more service-oriented or product-oriented business.
Introverts tend to do great with product-oriented businesses, as you can have a balance between interacting with your customers and spending time in your own studio to produce the product. For example, you might have a small handmade business that sells crocheted items or ceramic mugs. Pour out your inner creativity into making a unique brand. Keep in mind that if you go the handmade product route, you will have to promote in-person through craft shows, flea markets, or online platforms such as Etsy.
Creative Entrepreneur is most suitable for:
Those who are self-disciplined and self-motivated, willing to hustle and try a wide range of skills
Creatives who do not mind an unpredictable schedule and working for themselves (if you prefer predictability, you will have to create a structure for yourself)
Those who do not mind working in solitude (you very likely may be at the start)
Introverts who are skilled with persuasion to sell and strong interpersonal skills to handle customer service
Creatives who enjoy designing their own product or providing services, and have a specialized artistic skill
Suggested MBTI Types: INFP, ISTP, INTJ, ISTJ
8. Graphic Designer
Job Description:
As a graphic designer, you would be using design skills and computer programs to create artwork for commercial purposes. This is a great job for introverts who have an interest in aesthetics and are okay with working unpredictable hours. You will either be working freelance with clients, or you may be an in-house designer for a company. Introverts who have an eye for detail and the patience to refine designs after feedback will thrive in this job. From ideation to the execution of the design, you will need to communicate with the client you are working with. Products are usually for promotional or branding purposes. You may design logos, packaging, digital files, or posters. Technical skills in programs such as Adobe Suite and hand-drawn sketching are vital for this job.
Graphic Designer is most suitable for:
Introverts who have the patience to understand client's needs and take feedback to edit and re-edit designs
Creatives who do not mind producing artwork for commercial purposes
Creatives who are skilled in design, and understand how to use typography, colors, and composition to illustrate ideas
Those who do not mind working in solitude with long screen hours
People who are interested in creative problem solving and project-based tasks
Those who have strong time management skills, can work under pressure and meet deadlines
Suggested MBTI Types: IFSP, ISFJ, INFP, INTP
9. Illustrator
Job Description:
As an illustrator, you will create original artwork for either printed or digital publications. It can have some overlapping elements with graphic design. Illustration has a strong emphasis on storytelling. Drawing, sketching and even painting are essential skills for illustrators to have. The illustration field is transforming because of technology, with a higher demand for digital products as opposed to physical publications. Digital art has become a growing trend and preference from some publishers, due to the faster production time. You will have to be adaptable and willing to use both traditional and digital art skills.
Similar to graphic design, you will have to work with clients or editors to refine your artwork, and meet deadlines. This is a great job for introverted creatives as you will have to spend lots of time creating the artwork, often working on your own. If you are a freelance illustrator, it is important to know how to market yourself, manage your own schedule, and interact with clients.
Illustrator is most suitable for:
Creatives who have skills in writing and communications, as well as knowledge and interest in artistic fields
Detail-oriented creatives who have patience in refining their writing and the ability to take critique during the editing process
Extroverts who enjoy a high level of social interactions and aren’t afraid to go out, whether it’s through meeting new people, joining events, and interviewing others
Those who do not mind unpredictable schedules and are able to manage high stress and meet deadlines (interviewing, publishing schedules)
Suggested MBTI Types: ISFJ, INFP, INFJ, INTP
10. Industrial Designer
technical sketch
Job Description:
As an Industrial designer, you would be working in a highly technical creative field, in charge of designing manufactured products. This path is diverse due to the wide range of products, ranging from toys, and appliances, to cars. This is a job great for hands-on and investigative individuals. You will have to create sketches and physical prototypes with computer programs and understand how a product functions. This job is great for introverts who are interested in the sciences and arts. You will have to work with engineers, and business and packaging teams to complete a project. Creatives who are patient and detail-oriented will thrive in this field. You need to research manufacturing regulations and also understand how to make a product functional and appealing.
Industrial Designer is most suitable for
Creative Introverts who are skilled at logical and problem-solving skills and are interested in innovative design
Creatives who thrive with spatial thinking, and can work with 3D objects (whether it's a 3D prototype, sketching, or 3D printing)
Individuals who are good with project management, handling a product from conception to manufacturing
Patient artists who have an eye for technical detail, and are willing to refine their work with constant feedback
Creatives interested in working with the product cycle
Introverts who do not mind working with different teams and stakeholders (engineer, finance, packaging, and design teams, as well as clients)
Creatives who enjoy working with computer programs such as Adobe Creative Suite and AutoCAD to create 3D prototypes
Suggested MBTI Types: ISTJ, ISTP, INTJ, INTP
Introverts will find that there is a wide range of creative careers for them to choose from.
There is a wide range of creative careers, so take time to explore the different options. Being a creative professional is not just for a selected few. With careful planning and training, you can find your suitable path!
When career searching, there is no absolute answer. It is a balance between understanding your personality, preferences, values, training, and background. You can always grow and pick up new transferable skills. Spend time making connections with people who are already in the field. Chances are they are very willing to share their experiences with you. Your unique perspective as an introvert and the ability to be observant will lend to your creative process. With a good work ethic and perseverance, you can take the leap into a successful creative career. Wishing you the best in your endeavors!