RIASEC Holland Code Test: Finding Your Ideal Career Path
Connecting Your Interests to Your Strengths
Developed by John Holland, the RIASEC model (Holland Codes) categorizes vocational interests into six distinct types. It is based on the theory that people are most satisfied and successful when they work in environments that match their personalities.
In which environment do you shine the brightest?
The 6 RIASEC Types
- R (Realistic): Prefers practical, hands-on work with tools or machines.
- I (Investigative): Prefers analytical and academic research.
- A (Artistic): Values creativity and free self-expression.
- S (Social): Finds reward in helping, teaching, or curing others.
- E (Enterprising): Goal-oriented and energized by leading or persuading others.
- C (Conventional): Strong at systematic data management and organization.
Your career is an exploration, not a fixed destination. Discover new possibilities with your RIASEC result.
RIASEC: Harmony Between Personality and Workplace (Finding Your Fit)
Psychologist John Holland established the theory that “people flourish in work environments that match their personality types.” RIASEC is an acronym for the six personality types in his model, and it is the most trusted career exploration tool worldwide.
1. The 6 Interest Types (The Holland Codes)
R: Realistic - “The Doers”
Prefers working with machines, tools, and achieving tangible results.
- Traits: Sincere, reliable, and active.
- Careers: Engineer, Athlete, Chef, Military, Farmer.
I: Investigative - “The Thinkers”
Enjoys observing, analyzing, and solving intellectual problems.
- Traits: Logical, independent, and cautious.
- Careers: Scientist, Professor, Programmer, Physician, Data Analyst.
A: Artistic - “The Creators”
Likes expressing themselves in free and creative environments.
- Traits: Expressive, original, and open-minded.
- Careers: Designer, Writer, Actor, Musician, Composer.
S: Social - “The Helpers”
Prefers communicating with, helping, and teaching others.
- Traits: Understanding, cooperative, and warm.
- Careers: Teacher, Counselor, Nurse, Social Worker, Flight Attendant.
E: Enterprising - “The Persuaders”
Enjoys leading organizations, achieving goals, and persuading others.
- Traits: Confident, enthusiastic, and extroverted.
- Careers: CEO, Sales Representative, Politician, Lawyer, Project Manager.
C: Conventional - “The Organizers”
Likes organizing data, managing systems, and following rules.
- Traits: Detail-oriented, practical, and stable.
- Careers: Accountant, Banker, Librarian, Administrative Specialist, Secretary.
2. The Holland Hexagon
The RIASEC types are arranged in a hexagon. Types closer to each other sharing more similarities, while those on opposite sides represent contrasting tendencies. (e.g., Realistic (R) vs Social (S) often contrasts ‘Objects’ vs ‘People’.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Holland Codes remain the same for life?
Interest types formed in adulthood tend to be relatively stable. However, they can be fine-tuned through new experiences or changes in the professional environment, making periodic checks valuable.
What if two types score equally high?
This is called ‘multi-potentiality’ and is a very positive sign. Look for hybrid roles. For instance, if Investigative (I) and Artistic (A) are both high, you might thrive as a ‘Data Visualization Expert’ or ‘Cultural Technologist.‘
Must my hobbies and career aptitude be the same?
Not necessarily. Interest types reflect a preference for ‘Environment.’ If you are Social (S) but work in a quiet lab (I), you might feel stressed regardless of your ability. Use RIASEC to choose an ‘Organizational Culture’ as much as the job content itself.
Related Tools
- Multiple Intelligences: Identifying Your Strengths
- MBTI Encyclopedia: Communication by Type
- TCI Temperament Test: Your Psychological Foundation
Chose for Growth, Not Just Success Work takes up a huge part of life. Don’t choose a job just because others say it’s good; find an environment where your heart beats and you gain energy. RIASEC will be your career compass.