Holland Code Career Matches: Complete Guide to 6 Types
Finding Your Career Through Holland Codes
Your Holland Code reveals not just what you're interested in, but what types of work environments will bring you the most satisfaction and success. Let's explore detailed career matches for each of the six RIASEC types.
Realistic (R) Careers
Realistic types thrive in careers involving physical activity, hands-on problem-solving, and working with tools, machines, or nature.
Top Career Matches
- Engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical) — designing and building systems
- Skilled Trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter) — hands-on expertise
- Agriculture & Forestry — working with land and natural resources
- Military & Law Enforcement — structured, physical roles
- Athletics & Fitness — training, coaching, sports management
- Automotive Technology — vehicle repair and maintenance
Education Paths
Many R-type careers offer multiple entry points: trade schools, apprenticeships, associate degrees, or bachelor's programs in engineering or technology.
Work Environment Preferences
Outdoors, workshops, labs, or anywhere they can work with their hands. R-types generally prefer less office time and more tangible, visible results.
Investigative (I) Careers
Investigative types excel in careers that require analytical thinking, research, and intellectual exploration.
Top Career Matches
- Scientific Research (biology, chemistry, physics) — advancing knowledge
- Medicine (physician, surgeon, psychiatrist) — diagnostic problem-solving
- Data Science & Analytics — finding patterns in complex data
- Software Engineering — building logical systems
- Economics & Policy Analysis — understanding complex systems
- University Professor — teaching and researching
Education Paths
I-type careers typically require advanced degrees (master's or Ph.D.) for research roles, though data science and software engineering increasingly welcome self-taught professionals.
Artistic (A) Careers
Artistic types flourish in careers that allow creative expression, innovation, and working with ideas and aesthetics.
Top Career Matches
- Graphic Design & UX Design — visual communication
- Writing & Journalism — storytelling and communication
- Music & Performing Arts — creative expression
- Architecture — blending art and engineering
- Film & Video Production — visual storytelling
- Fashion Design — aesthetic innovation
Education Paths
Some A-type careers benefit from formal training (architecture, graphic design), while others value portfolio and experience over degrees (writing, music).
Social (S) Careers
Social types excel in careers focused on helping, teaching, and connecting with people.
Top Career Matches
- Teaching (K-12, higher education) — educating and mentoring
- Counseling & Psychology — mental health support
- Nursing & Healthcare — patient care
- Social Work — community support and advocacy
- Human Resources — organizational people management
- Religious Ministry — spiritual guidance
Education Paths
S-type careers typically require at least a bachelor's degree, with counseling and social work often requiring master's-level training and licensure.
Enterprising (E) Careers
Enterprising types thrive in careers involving leadership, persuasion, and business management.
Top Career Matches
- Business Management — leading organizations
- Sales & Business Development — revenue generation
- Entrepreneurship — starting and growing businesses
- Law — advocacy and negotiation
- Real Estate — property sales and development
- Political Leadership — governance and public policy
Education Paths
MBA programs, law school, or direct entrepreneurial experience. Many E-type leaders succeed through experience and networking rather than credentials alone.
Conventional (C) Careers
Conventional types excel in careers requiring organization, attention to detail, and systematic processes.
Top Career Matches
- Accounting & Auditing — financial accuracy
- Financial Planning — wealth management
- Office Administration — organizational management
- Banking — financial services
- Supply Chain Management — logistics optimization
- Insurance & Actuarial Science — risk assessment
Education Paths
Bachelor's degrees in business, accounting, or finance, often supplemented by professional certifications (CPA, CFA, PMP).
Combining Your Top Three Types
Remember, your Holland Code is a three-letter combination. The interplay between your types creates unique career niches. Use our free RIASEC test on AIMind360 to discover your complete Holland Code and explore AI-recommended careers tailored to your specific combination.