Why intuition is only part of a career decision

Career choices can be shaped by many things: advice from family, friends' examples, or what is popular in the media. Research-based models offer another source of information to consider alongside your own experience.

Holland's RIASEC model

John Holland proposed a six-part model of vocational interests:

  • Realistic (R): practical work, often with tools, equipment, or physical materials.
  • Investigative (I): analyzing questions and solving complex problems.
  • Artistic (A): creative work and self-expression.
  • Social (S): helping, teaching, or supporting other people.
  • Enterprising (E): leading, initiating, and influencing decisions.
  • Conventional (C): organizing information and working with structure.

Types next to each other on the hexagon have more in common; opposite types may feel less alike. A Holland code combines the two or three types with the highest scores.

Big Five and work

The five-factor model (OCEAN) is widely used in personality research. Studies have found links between some traits and work outcomes:

  • Conscientiousness is often associated with job performance across many roles.
  • Extraversion is often relevant to sales and leadership roles.
  • Openness is associated with creativity and learning.
  • Neuroticism is often linked to lower job satisfaction.
  • Agreeableness can help in collaborative work.

These are broad patterns, not predictions about what one person can do.

Self-determination theory

Edward Deci and Richard Ryan described three basic needs related to motivation and well-being at work:

  1. Autonomy: having some choice in what you do and how you do it.
  2. Competence: feeling able to meet challenges and keep learning.
  3. Relatedness: feeling connected to a community that matters to you.

When one of these needs is consistently unmet, motivation can suffer, regardless of pay or status.

Practical steps

1. Take the assessments

Start with RIASEC to explore your interests, then use Big Five to reflect on your work style.

2. Look for overlap

Compare the results with roles you are considering. Notice what appears across more than one source.

3. Try the work

  • Talk with people in the roles you are considering.
  • Volunteer or take a short internship, if available.
  • Take an online course to try out a new subject.

4. Revisit your plan

Careers rarely follow a straight line. Every few years, review what you have learned and adjust your direction if needed.

Sources

  • Holland, J.L. (1997). Making Vocational Choices: A Theory of Vocational Personalities and Work Environments.
  • Barrick, M.R., & Mount, M.K. (1991). The Big Five personality dimensions and job performance.
  • Deci, E.L., & Ryan, R.M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior.