RIASEC Careers Guide

A Guide to RIASEC Careers (Holland Codes)

The Strong Interest Inventory built upon the RIASEC career codes (also known as the Holland Codes), which stand for: Realistic (R), Investigative (I), Artistic (A), Social (S), Enterprising (E), and Conventional (C).

You can take the Holland Code test here.

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Read on to find out what RIASEC careers or Holland Code jobs can bring out the best in your interests and talents! Also, check out my career coaching services if you’d like some extra advice on top!

The RIASEC model, developed by John Holland, is a popular career theory that categorizes jobs based on personality types. These six types—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—help individuals align their careers with their interests, improving job satisfaction and career success.

People with a Realistic (R) personality prefer practical, hands-on work and enjoy solving mechanical or technical problems. For example, a mechanic who enjoys fixing cars or a construction worker building structures would thrive in this category. These individuals often find satisfaction in jobs where they can directly interact with tools, machines, or physical environments.

Those with an Investigative (I) orientation are curious, analytical, and enjoy problem-solving. They are typically drawn to fields like science, research, or technology. A biologist studying ecosystems or a software developer solving complex algorithms are examples of investigative careers. These individuals enjoy roles that allow them to think critically and engage with data to uncover solutions.

Artistic (A) types are creative and expressive, preferring careers that allow for self-expression and innovation. A graphic designer creating visual content for a brand or an actor performing in theater would resonate with this type. Artistic individuals thrive in environments where creativity and freedom are encouraged, such as in the arts, writing, or media production.

Those who identify as Social (S) enjoy helping and interacting with others. They often pursue careers in teaching, healthcare, or counseling. For instance, a nurse caring for patients in a hospital or a teacher shaping young minds in a classroom exemplifies the Social personality. These individuals find fulfillment in roles that enable them to make a positive impact on others’ lives.

The Enterprising (E) type is ambitious, persuasive, and enjoys leadership or entrepreneurial roles. A corporate manager directing a team or a startup founder building a new business are examples of enterprising careers. These individuals excel in environments where they can lead, persuade, and drive projects forward.

Finally, those with a Conventional (C) personality prefer structured, detail-oriented work. They are well-suited for careers in administration, finance, or data management. An accountant balancing financial records or an office manager overseeing office operations would thrive in conventional roles. These individuals excel in organized, systematic environments where attention to detail is key.

By identifying your dominant RIASEC types, you can make more informed decisions about which career paths are likely to bring you both success and personal fulfillment.

Realistic (R)

Build, fix, tinker.

Realistic career ideas:

Investigative (I)

Research, theorize, understand.

Investigative career ideas:

Artistic (A)

Create, emote, reflect.

Artistic career ideas:

Social (S)

Connect, empathize, advise.

Social career ideas:

Enterprising (E)

Sell, commodify, change.

Enterprising career ideas:

Conventional (C)

Organize, streamline, categorize.

Conventional career ideas: