One of the most interesting parts of the MBTI assessment details what careers would be best for me to pursue. For instance, ESFJ personality types find jobs in health care support, personal care and services, and office and administrative support highly attractive. Jobs that may not match as well with the ESFJ type are those in the fields of protective services, computers and mathematics (so it was obviously good to switch out of engineering), and construction.
Obviously, not every single job the assessment suggested was feasible for me. ‘Surgeon’ came highly recommended, but I nearly faint at the sight of blood. ‘Fitness Trainer’ was also high on the list, but no one is going to find me running a marathon anytime soon. It is important to avoid interpreting the results too literally. The MBTI is not meant to provide someone with a concrete answer for what his or her future should be. It will not tell someone in what job he or she will be happiest. Instead, it is a fun and creative way to shed light on facets of personality that many may not have contemplated before. For instance, I had never pondered the fact that I thrive with face-to-face contact and will probably need it in a future career in order to be happy. The MBTI helped me to realize that and also provided me with a list of careers that are characterized by such personal interaction.
I ultimately ended up declaring a major in Psychology and a minor in Communications and Media Studies. I am fascinated by the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind thoughts and behaviors. I hope to apply my knowledge to a career in an area of communications one day. Taking the MBTI assessment in Career Services was not the sole reason behind my choosing this particular track, but it was certainly a prominent reason that led me to do so.
Want to learn more about the MBTI? Call Career Services at 617.627.2430, tell them you’re interested in self-assessment and make a ½ hour appointment.
