What are Holland codes?
The psychologist John Holland noticed that people and jobs both fall into six broad interest types, often shortened to RIASEC. People tend to be happiest in work that matches their strongest two or three types. Your "Holland code" is those types in order, for example SAE or IRC.
Builder (Realistic, R)
Hands-on work with tools, machines, nature or the body.
Jobs: Electrician, Mechanical engineer, Carpenter, Pilot, Firefighter, Paramedic, Farm or ranch manager.
Thinker (Investigative, I)
Research, analysis and solving complex problems.
Jobs: Software developer, Data scientist, Doctor, Biologist, Pharmacist, Economist, Psychologist.
Creator (Artistic, A)
Design, writing, music and original ideas.
Jobs: Architect, Graphic designer, Writer or author, Photographer, Musician, Actor, Interior designer.
Helper (Social, S)
Teaching, caring for and advising people.
Jobs: Physiotherapist, Athletic trainer, Art therapist, Teacher, Nurse, Social worker, School counsellor.
Persuader (Enterprising, E)
Leading, selling and starting things.
Jobs: Construction manager, Entrepreneur, Sales manager, Marketing manager, Lawyer, Real estate agent, Financial adviser.
Organiser (Conventional, C)
Data, systems, accuracy and order.
Jobs: Quality inspector, Accountant, Financial analyst, Auditor, Actuary, Paralegal, Logistics coordinator.
How to use your code
Look at jobs that combine your top two types first: a Helper-Thinker might enjoy nursing or speech therapy, while a Persuader-Creator might enjoy marketing or entrepreneurship. Interests are only part of the picture, so weigh your skills, values, pay and the local job market too, and talk to a careers adviser before a big change.
For fun and self-reflection. NineTraits tests are for entertainment and personal insight. They are not a clinical, psychological, medical or professional assessment, and they should not be used to make decisions about health, hiring, relationships or education. If you are struggling, please talk to a qualified professional. Full disclaimer