What Is the Holland Code (RIASEC)? Career Interest Test Guide
What Is the Holland Code?
The Holland Code, also known as RIASEC, is a career interest theory developed by psychologist John Holland in the 1950s. It proposes that both people and work environments can be classified into six types, and that career satisfaction is highest when there is a strong match between a person's type and their work environment.
The six types spell out RIASEC: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. Your Holland Code is typically expressed as your top three types, like "AIE" (Artistic-Investigative-Enterprising) or "SEC" (Social-Enterprising-Conventional).
John Holland's Theory
Holland's theory rests on four key assumptions:
- Most people can be categorized into one of six personality types
- Work environments can also be classified into these same six types
- People seek out environments that match their personality type
- Career satisfaction and success depend on the congruence between person and environment
This elegant framework has become one of the most widely used career counseling tools worldwide, forming the basis of the U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET system and many career guidance programs.
The Six RIASEC Types
R — Realistic (The Doer)
Realistic types prefer working with things, tools, machines, and animals. They value practical, hands-on activities and tend to be straightforward, mechanically inclined, and physically active.
Interests: Building, repairing, outdoor activities, athletics, mechanics
Work environments: Workshops, construction sites, farms, laboratories, outdoors
I — Investigative (The Thinker)
Investigative types prefer working with ideas, data, and complex problems. They are curious, analytical, and enjoy research and intellectual challenges.
Interests: Science, math, research, solving puzzles, reading, analysis
Work environments: Research labs, universities, think tanks, tech companies
A — Artistic (The Creator)
Artistic types prefer working with ideas, forms, and self-expression. They value creativity, originality, and aesthetic beauty.
Interests: Art, music, writing, design, theater, creative expression
Work environments: Studios, theaters, design firms, publishing houses
S — Social (The Helper)
Social types prefer working with people — teaching, counseling, healing, and helping. They are empathetic, cooperative, and drawn to service roles.
Interests: Teaching, counseling, volunteering, healthcare, community service
Work environments: Schools, hospitals, nonprofits, counseling centers
E — Enterprising (The Persuader)
Enterprising types prefer leading, managing, and persuading others. They are ambitious, competitive, and drawn to business and leadership roles.
Interests: Sales, management, politics, entrepreneurship, public speaking
Work environments: Corporate offices, startups, political organizations
C — Conventional (The Organizer)
Conventional types prefer working with data, details, and established procedures. They value accuracy, organization, and efficiency.
Interests: Accounting, filing, data entry, organizing, scheduling
Work environments: Banks, government offices, accounting firms, administrative settings
How the Holland Code Works
Your Holland Code is determined by your top three types, creating a three-letter code. The first letter is your dominant type, and the second and third letters add nuance. For example:
- AIS (Artistic-Investigative-Social): Might thrive as a UX researcher, art therapist, or documentary filmmaker
- RIC (Realistic-Investigative-Conventional): Might excel as an engineer, lab technician, or quality inspector
- ESA (Enterprising-Social-Artistic): Might flourish in marketing, event planning, or arts administration
Why RIASEC Matters for Your Career
Research consistently shows that people who work in environments matching their Holland Code report higher job satisfaction, better performance, and longer tenure. The framework helps you move beyond vague career aspirations to specific, data-driven career exploration.
Take the RIASEC Test
Discover your Holland Code with our free RIASEC career interest test on AIMind360. Get your three-letter code plus AI-generated career recommendations tailored to your unique interest profile.