Usually, when we talk about someone's personality, we are talking about what makes that person different from other people; what makes him or her unique? By learning more about your own personality and other personality types, you may be able to come to a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, your approach to people, your working style and why you react differently in different situations.

Research has shown that many of the different 'Personality Types' tend to have distinct preferences in their choice of careers. So, assessing yourself in this way may assist you in further understanding why you are drawn to certain career paths, or which career options may be more suitable for you.

According to a theory from psychologist John Holland, most people are one of the six personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising and Conventional.

REALISTIC people are practical, reliable, persistent, sensible, self-reliant, down-to-earth and adventurous.

Realistic personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Fire fighter
• Electrician
• Architect
• Welder
• Taxi driver
• Painter

INVESTIGATIVE people prefer to think rather than to act, to organise and understand rather than to persuade. They are precise, complex, intellectual and very observant.

Investigative personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Technician
• Scientist
• Mathematician
• Dentist
• Doctor
• Marketing researcher

SOCIAL people seem to satisfy their needs in a teaching or helping situation. Social types are drawn more to seek close interpersonal relationships and enjoy engaging in intellectual or extensive physical activity. They are outgoing, caring, talkative, friendly and understanding.

Social personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Counsellor
• Child and adult care
• Nursing
• Therapy and specialised teaching
• Educational and library services
• Athletic trainer

CONVENTIONAL people don't mind rules and regulations and emphasise self-control. They prefer structure and order to ambiguity in work and interpersonal situations. They are careful, efficient, controlled, team orientated and precise.

Conventional personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Policeman
• Customer service advisor
• Cashier
• Office Manager
• Financial clerk
• Receptionist

ENTERPRISING people are verbally skilled and use this skill in persuasion rather than support of others. They also are self-confident, energetic, ambitious and very enthusiastic.

Enterprising personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Buyer
• Bartender
• Editor
• Marketing
• Lawyer
• Accountant

ARTISTIC people value self-expression and relations with others through artistic expression. They dislike structure and are impulsive, creative, sensitive and idealistic.

Artistic personalities are best suited to the following jobs:

• Writer
• Dancer
• Singer
• Photographer
• Industrial designer
• Musician

Knowing your personality type can help you find your dream job. For more practical career skills and advice, click here to take a look at the range of free online courses.