Career quiz: what job should I have?
When you start school, you're asked, "what do you want to be when you grow up?"
But the average person has 12.4 jobs between the ages of 18 and 54. Even as an adult, it's OK if you still don't know what your dream job is.
The best job for you will depend on your personality type, interests, and any special skills you may have. To help you learn more about yourself and your career interests, we’ve compiled our top tips for finding a job that will make you happy.
This guide will cover what you should know about finding the best job for you, taking a career quiz, and what to do with your results. Plus, we'll give you a look at the big picture with a free career quiz.
What is a career quiz?
A career quiz is a type of assessment that asks you questions about your interests, skills, and values to determine which occupation would be the best fit for you.
There are many types of career quizzes available online and in print, but they all typically ask similar questions. The goal of taking a job quiz is to help you learn more about what you want and don't want in a job.
A career assessment can be an excellent way to get started in your job search or used as a tool to help narrow down your options if you're already considering multiple occupations.
You can find career quizzes by searching for "career quiz" or "what job should I have quiz" to find one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Learn the different career paths
One of the most useful things you can do when looking for your dream job is to learn about the different types of occupations that are available. Each position has its own set of requirements, duties, and soft skills that you'll need to succeed.
The most common career paths can be broken down into five main categories:
Arts and entertainment
Business and finance
Education and social services
Healthcare and science
Technology
Among these paths, the healthcare industry is expected to be one of the fastest-growing in the future. This is due to a demand for registered nurses and rapid advancements in medical technology.
You can learn more about the various types of careers by doing research online, talking to people you know who work in different fields, or by shadowing someone for a day to see what their job is like.
What career is right for me?
If you are wondering what job is right for you, then you should start with the basics. The career you choose should be something you love, something that you’re good at, and something that will pay the bills.
Be realistic when choosing a career path, as you’ll want to make sure there are jobs available.
You can start by doing a job search.
Think about your future and the type of work-life balance you are looking for. Remember, the perfect career for you might not be a position you can walk into just because it suits your personality type.
A career change may require additional study and upskilling, and you can check your resume for any areas that need improvement.
How do I find a career that makes me happy?
When you have job satisfaction, you'll work harder and enjoy going to work each day.
65% of employees are satisfied with their jobs, and you can be too. There are six steps you can take to get a career that makes you happy.
1. Know who you are
The first step is self-examination and introspection. Write a list of your passions and skills so that you can match them to potential career paths.
2. Discover what motivates you
Think about what makes you tick. What makes you want to succeed?
For example, is it career progression, money, helping others, a good work-life balance, or the chance to be creative?
3. Work on your personal brand
First impressions matter, and the way you market yourself can contribute to your success. Employers will read your resume and may even check your online presence.
Don’t forget to update your Jobcase profile and social media accounts. Do the information, layout, and tone match your career goals?
4. Build a support network
The individuals you surround yourself with can be crucial to your success. If you’re unsure what your career should be, ask your friends and family how they perceive you.
They may even have industry contacts to help you get in the door.
5. Be realistic
Know your limitations and understand what career paths are achievable. For example, you may love playing basketball, but this doesn’t mean it’s your destiny to be an elite athlete in the NBA.
6. Study and upskill
Your dream job might be something you're not currently equipped for. The good news is that it's never too late to learn.
Changing career paths is possible, but you may need to upskill in your current field or enroll in a new course. This will help you develop your personal brand.
Career quiz: what job should I have?
Your ideal job might be one you have never heard of before. Take our career quiz to learn what role would be best suited to your personality.
Choose A, B, C, or D, and record your answers.
- How do you spend your spare time?
A. On the computer
B. Fixing things around the home
C. Talking and socializing with friends
D. Painting or playing music
- How would people best describe you?
A. Savvy and book smart
B. Handy and practical
C. Friendly and warm
D. Inspiring and artistic
- Which subject did you enjoy the most at school?
A. Math
B. Science
C. English
D. Art
- Who would you rather spend the day with?
A. Steve Jobs
B. Bear Grylls
C. Oprah Winfrey
D. David Bowie
- What would your ideal workday look like?
A. In an air-conditioned office, at a desk with a computer
B. Traveling across town, performing different tasks
C. In a team environment, helping others
D. Alone or in a small group
- What type of schedule do you prefer?
A. A structured, 9–5 workplace
B. Starting early and finishing early with the opportunity for overtime
C. In a dynamic environment that may require unusual hours
D. At your own pace without your eye on the clock
- What’s your preferred work environment?
A. I like working as part of a team with monthly targets
B. I’m physically fit and enjoy variety in the workplace
C. I like to work with people and engage with the community
D. I like to manage my own time and can work independently
- What motivates you?
A. Career progression and meeting sales targets
B. Completing tasks using physical strength
C. Helping and caring for others
D. Using my imagination and being creative
- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A. New York, USA
B. Rome, Italy
C. Toronto, Canada
D. Paris, France
- You get stranded on a deserted island; what would you want with you?
A. Smartphone
B. Shovel
C. First aid kit
D. Guitar
Now, check your answers. Here are the types of career pathways that your answers indicate may be a good fit for you:
Your answers
Career style
Mostly A
Business-minded
Mostly B
Hands-on
Mostly C
Compassionate
Mostly D
Creative
Let’s break down what each of these means and the jobs that fit into these categories. We’ll also show you the average salaries for the different career paths according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS).
Business-minded career pathways
If you get mostly A answers, you're business-minded.
You enjoy working with technology and are well-suited to an office environment. You like clear goals and are good at working with others. You’re assertive, confident, and tech-savvy.
What jobs are associated with a business-minded career path? Consider these career options:
Management
Managers are responsible for their teams. They supervise, train, and organize their staff. Managers help with recruiting, delegating tasks, and handling disputes.
The average salary for a manager is $109,760 per year. However, some management positions pay much more.
Sales and retail
Retail sales workers greet customers. They process payments and make product recommendations. Retail sales workers answer customer questions and forward complaints to management.
The salary for a retail sales worker is $27,320 per year.
Banking
Tellers work in a bank and help customers withdraw and deposit money. They manage the cash drawer, answer questions, and set up new accounts. Tellers exchange international currencies.
The salary for a bank teller is $32,620 per year.
Real Estate
Real estate agents buy and sell properties for their clients. They also manage rental properties. Job responsibilities include negotiating deals, organizing legal documents, and advertising listings.
The salary for a real estate agent is $51,220 per year.
Self-employment
Those who are self-employed work for themselves. The right career will depend on your skill set, experience, and passion. Self-employed people are responsible for their own taxes and insurance.
The salary of a self-employed person depends on the profession and industry.
Administration
An administrative assistant is part of an office work environment. Job responsibilities include answering phones, filing documents, booking appointments, and cash handling.
The salary of an administrative assistant is $40,990 per year.
Hands-on career pathways
If you got mostly B answers, you're likely good with your hands.
You’re well-suited to a trade, as you can confidently complete physically demanding tasks. You like the flexibility of a varied workday. As a hard worker, you won’t say no to overtime.
If our career test showed you have a hands-on personality type, your dream career could be on this list:
Electrical
Electricians work with electrical power components, including wiring and lighting. They plan projects and install new electrical systems. If there is an electrical fault, an electrician will be called to troubleshoot the problem.
The average salary for electricians is $56,900 per year.
Plumbing
Plumbers install, maintain, and repair piping and plumbing systems. They plan projects, including costs, materials, and timelines. Plumbers work on domestic, commercial, and industrial projects.
The average salary for a plumber is $56,330 per year.
Hospitality
Hospitality workers can be found in restaurants, cafes, hotels, bars, casinos, and cruise liners. The roles can vary, but duties include serving food and drinks, greeting customers, and cleaning.
The salary varies depending on the job. For example, the average salary for a bartender is $24,960 per year. And the average salary for a barista is $24,130 per year.
Hairdressing
Hairdressers cut, color, and style hair. They consider their clients’ hair type, face shape, and concerns, and they make recommendations. Hairdressers also process payments and book appointments.
The average salary for a hairdresser is $27,630 per year.
Landscapers
Landscapers plan and maintain outdoor areas. They plant gardens and lawns and install bricks, paving, and concrete. Landscapers work on new projects and maintain yards, parks, and other outdoor spaces.
The average salary for a landscaper is $32,220 per year. Landscape architects with a degree make $70,630 per year.
Building
Construction laborers work on construction sites. They use power tools, dig trenches, and erect structures. Construction laborers support tradespeople and keep the workspace tidy.
The salary for a construction laborer is $37,890 per year. There are opportunities to earn a trade or get promoted to a construction manager role once you have work experience.
Compassionate career pathways
If you get mostly C answers, you're a compassionate worker.
You enjoy helping and supporting others. It's your patience and kindness that stand out. You thrive when working in a team, and while you like to maintain a work-life balance, you're happy to have a flexible roster.
Here are some examples of compassionate career pathways. Your perfect career choice could be on this list:
Nursing
Nurses assess and observe patients. They give them medicine, write reports, and perform tests. Nurses work in hospitals, nursing homes, and doctor’s offices.
The average salary for a nurse is $75,330 per year.
Teaching
Teachers plan and teach lessons in a classroom. They grade work, manage behavior, and communicate with parents.
The average salary for a teacher is $62,870 per year.
Aged care
Aged care workers work with the elderly. They help them with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
The average salary for an aged care worker is $27,080 per year.
Child care
Child care workers supervise young children. They make sure the children are safe and help them with basic tasks. For example, child care workers change diapers, prepare meals, and organize play activities.
The average salary for a child care worker is $25,460 per year.
Social work
Social workers help people cope with difficult situations and overcome hardship. They work with individuals and communities and respond to crises.
The average salary for a social worker is $51,760 per year.
Law and order
Law enforcement officers protect citizens and their belongings. They investigate crimes, respond to emergencies, and testify in court. Some police officers monitor traffic and issue fines.
The salary for a law enforcement officer is $67,290 per year.
Creative career pathways
If you get mostly D answers, you are a creative personality type.
You may already have a specific skill, such as painting, music, or media. You work best when you have opportunities to be creative, and you're good at working independently. Your outlook is positive, and you like to think outside the box.
Do you have a passion for creative industries? One of these could be the right job for you:
Graphic design
Graphic designers help brands create a visual identity. They design logos, business cards, brochures, and graphics for websites. Graphic designers often use computer software to make their designs.
The average salary for a graphic designer is $53,380 per year.
Marketing and media
Public relations specialists work with their clients and the media to get positive coverage. They write press releases, book interviews, and write reports. Public relations specialists use social media.
The salary for a public relations specialist is $62,810 per year. Other jobs in this field include marketing managers and social media specialists.
Interior design
Interior designers choose indoor components for homes and offices. For example, they choose paint colors, fixtures, furniture, and flooring. Interior designers also plan the layout of the room, including walls and cupboards.
The average salary for an interior designer is $57,060 per year.
Photography
Photographers take photographs. They style photoshoots, choose the best lighting, and use their skills to take professional shots. Photographers have different specialties, such as wedding, family, advertising, or landscape photography.
The average salary for a photographer is $41,280 per year.
Copywriting
Copywriters create text for advertising campaigns online and in print. They work with clients and write slogans, press releases, and product descriptions.
The average salary for a copywriter is $67,120 per year.
Art
Artists work with a range of mediums and usually have a specialty. For example, artists may excel at painting, drawing, knitting, weaving, or sculpting. They may have their work displayed in a gallery.
The average salary for an artist is $49,120 per year.
How to interpret your career quiz results
Once you've taken a career quiz, it's important to take some time to interpret your results. One of the first things you should do is read through the occupation description that you scored highest.
Think about whether the job's duties, skills, and requirements match your interests and core strengths. You may consider retaking the quiz or looking into other occupations if they don't.
You can also use your results to help narrow down your ideal career options if considering multiple occupations. For example, if you scored highest on the healthcare and business career quizzes, you may want to look into jobs that combine these two career fields.
It's important to note that career quizzes are just one tool you can use to explore your career options. They're not always accurate, and they don't replace professional career counseling, or even just sitting down and evaluating options on your own. If you want more help finding the right job for you, consider meeting with a counselor or taking other self-assessment tests.
Take a career quiz and find your dream job
It's possible to get a job you love when you assess your personality traits. Once you understand what motivates you, build your personal brand and grow your support network.
You may need to do further study or participate in workplace training to get the career of your dreams.
We have shared a free career quiz with you to give you some insight into what job path might be right for you.
The only question left is: are you creative, business-minded, hands-on, or compassionate?
Check out our Getting Hired Resource Center for more career advice. And start your job search by visiting our job board.
This quiz could have used a better format or has to be more interactive where the answers can just be clicked and tallied at the end.