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Unlock Your Potential 14 ESTP Careers To Consider Today
Career Advice

Unlock Your Potential: 14 ESTP Careers To Consider Today

11 minute read | May 15, 2023
Sakshi Gupta

Written by:
Sakshi Gupta

Ready to launch your career?

ESTP personality types are known for their daring nature, liveliness, and spontaneous mindset, and they’re often called “the entrepreneur” or “the dynamo.” They are often referred to as “doers” because they have a hands-on approach to life, and tend to jump into action without overthinking things.

So if you’re an ESTP personality type, and you’re at the beginning of your career, you may be wondering about which careers naturally suit your temperament. 

In this article, we’ll look at 14 careers best suited for ESTPs to help you unlock your full potential. Our list covers various industries, from sales to firefighting, and each career option promises to challenge and excite ESTPs with a unique blend of work requirements and perks.

What Does ESTP Mean?

ESTP stands for extraverted, sensing, thinking, and perceiving, and is one of the 16 personality types as defined by the Myers-Briggs test. People with this personality type are outgoing, practical, action-oriented, and adaptable. They tend to focus on the present moment, enjoy taking risks and are skilled problem-solvers. 

What Type of Roles Do ESTP Personalities Shine in?

ESTP-type personalities thrive in roles that allow them to use their natural strengths and abilities. They are known to be highly skilled problem-solvers, adaptable, action-oriented, and practical. As a result, they often excel in roles that require quick thinking, decision-making, and hands-on work. Some roles ESTP personalities shine in include sales, entrepreneurship, web development, or PR management.

ESTP Personality Type: Strengths and Weaknesses in the Workplace

ESTP Personality Type Strengths and Weaknesses

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of ESTP personality types in the workplace can be incredibly helpful for both employers and employees looking to maximize their potential.

Strengths

ESTPs have several strengths that make them valuable assets in the workplace, including their quick decision-making skills, ability to adapt to changing situations, practical and hands-on approach to problem-solving, and natural charisma that helps them connect with colleagues and clients. ESTPs also tend to be highly observant, effectively identifying and addressing issues before they become significant problems.

Weaknesses

While ESTPs have many strengths in the workplace, they also have some weaknesses to be aware of. One common drawback is that they tend to be impulsive and may make decisions too quickly without fully considering all the consequences. ESTPs may also struggle with repetitive or mundane tasks, preferring instead to work on new and exciting projects.

14 Careers Where ESTP Personalities Can Excel

Let’s explore the career paths best suited to ESTP personality traits.

Sales Manager

Sales managers are responsible for leading and motivating teams of sales representatives to meet and exceed their sales quotas. They create and implement sales strategies, forecast sales volumes, and monitor market and competitor activities.

General Prerequisites

Most sales managers have experience in a more entry-level sales role before overseeing others. It used to be the case that, to become a successful sales manager, you also needed a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field. But that’s not a hard requirement anymore, and sales bootcamps are becoming an increasingly popular way to enter the field. Many sales managers also benefit from continuing education and professional development opportunities, such as enrolling in courses or bootcamps to stay up-to-date on the latest sales trends.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

Sales management involves working with people and motivating them, and ESTPs are known for loving social interactions and being outgoing and confident individuals who thrive in high-pressure environments. ESTPs also enjoy taking risks and pursuing new challenges, which can be valuable traits in a field where success often requires taking calculated risks and trying new strategies. 

Photographer/Videographer

Photographers and videographers—whether amateurs or professionals—capture high-quality images and footage that meet the client’s specifications, choosing the appropriate equipment and settings, editing, and post-processing the images for an excellent final result.

General Prerequisites

To become a successful photographer or videographer, you must have a passion for the arts, possess technical skills and knowledge of the equipment you use, and have a good eye for composition and visual storytelling. Having a solid portfolio of work to showcase your skills and experience is also helpful, as is formal education or training. 

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

A career in photography or videography can be suitable for ESTPs because it allows them to channel their creativity and technical skills into producing visual content that communicates a message or tells a story. Photography and videography also require a great deal of technical know-how, such as understanding the technical aspects of cameras and lighting, which can appeal to ESTPs’ preference for hands-on learning. 

Firefighter

Firefighters respond to emergencies such as fires, accidents, or natural disasters. Their roles include extinguishing fires, rescuing people and animals, administering first aid, and supporting other emergency services. They are also responsible for maintaining equipment, conducting regular safety checks, and educating the public on fire safety practices.

General Prerequisites

Some common prerequisites to becoming a firefighter include having a high school diploma, completing a firefighter training academy or program, physical fitness and agility, and passing a background check and drug test. Specific requirements may vary based on the department and location, so it’s important to research the prerequisites for the department you are interested in joining.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

Firefighting can be a good fit for ESTPs due to their love for action, physical work, and teamwork. They thrive in high-energy environments, making split-second decisions to save lives and property.

Entrepreneur

An entrepreneur is responsible for identifying and creating a business idea, developing a business plan, securing funding, and launching and growing the business. They also need to manage employees, finances, and operations and make strategic decisions to ensure the business’s success. 

General Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites to becoming an entrepreneur, but there are some general traits and skills that can increase the likelihood of success. These include having a strong work ethic, being self-motivated, having a clear vision and determination, and being able to take risks and handle uncertainty. Access to funding, mentorship, and a supportive network can also be beneficial.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs tend to be action-oriented and enjoy taking risks, which can be beneficial in starting and growing a business. They are also skilled at making practical and logical decisions, which can help identify opportunities and solve problems. 

Public Relations Manager

PR managers develop and implement a company’s public relations strategies, campaigns, and activities. They manage relationships with media outlets and the public, maintaining the company’s image and reputation.

General Prerequisites

To become a PR manager, some general prerequisites include having a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communication, or a related field and relevant work experience in public relations, marketing, or advertising. Strong communication skills, leadership skills, and the ability to work under pressure are also essential.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are known for their outgoing and confident personality, which can help them excel in networking and building relationships with clients and stakeholders. They also possess excellent communication skills and are quick thinkers, which can be beneficial in managing PR campaigns and handling crises.

Tour Guide

Tour guides lead groups of people on tours of various destinations, providing information about the history, culture, and customs of historical sites. They must ensure the safety and comfort of their group, manage time effectively, and handle any unexpected situations that may arise. 

General Prerequisites

The prerequisites to becoming a tour guide may vary depending on the location and type of tour. However, some standard requirements may include in-depth knowledge of the tour’s destination, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, proficiency in multiple languages, and a passion for travel and exploration. Some places may require formal training or certification courses in tour guiding.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are adaptable and can think on their feet, making them well-suited for the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the tourism industry. They are also outgoing, energetic, and spontaneous individuals who enjoy being around people and engaging with them.

Chiropractor

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat neuromuscular disorders through manual adjustments or manipulations of the spine. They also provide advice on exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle choices to improve overall health and prevent future injuries.

General Prerequisites

Chiropractors must complete an undergraduate degree, usually in a science-related field, and specific prerequisite courses such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physics. They also need to pass the Chiropractic College Admission Test (CCAT).

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs usually enjoy a hands-on, practical career that provides immediate results. Chiropractic involves physically manipulating the body to alleviate pain and discomfort, making it a hands-on and immediate results-oriented profession. Chiropractic is also a dynamic and exciting field that requires ESTPs to be adaptable and flexible, which plays to their strengths.

Web Developer

A web developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. They must ensure the website is user-friendly, visually appealing, and compatible across all devices. They must also stay up-to-date with the latest web development technologies and trends.

General Prerequisites

Web developers should have a strong understanding and knowledge of popular programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as familiarity with web development frameworks and libraries. A software engineering bootcamp is a great way to learn all of this.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are practical problem-solvers who enjoy finding solutions to real-world problems. Web development is all about creating practical solutions to meet the needs of clients and users, which can be a good fit for ESTPs who enjoy hands-on work. Additionally, ESTPs are known for their ability to learn by doing. Web development involves a lot of trial and error, experimentation, and hands-on work, which can be a good fit for ESTPs who like to dive into new challenges and figure things out as they go.

Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents are responsible for helping clients buy, sell, or rent properties. They provide guidance and assistance throughout real estate transactions, including property valuation, marketing, negotiating offers, and closing deals.

General Prerequisites

To become a real estate agent, one must be at least 18, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete pre-licensing coursework before passing a state exam to obtain a license. Some states may require a background check and continuing education to maintain the license. Prior experience in sales or customer service can also be beneficial.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are flexible and adaptable, which can be helpful in a career that involves working with different clients, properties, and situations. They are often outgoing and enjoy meeting new people, which can be beneficial for building a client base.

Stockbroker

A stockbroker is responsible for buying and selling securities on behalf of clients, typically in exchange for a commission or fee. They must have a deep understanding of the financial markets and be able to provide advice and recommendations to clients based on their investment goals and risk tolerance. Stockbrokers must also adhere to regulations and ethical standards set forth by regulatory bodies.

General Prerequisites

To become a stockbroker, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, economics, or a related field. You’ll also need to become licensed by passing the General Securities Representative Examination, also known as the Series 7 exam, and any other licensing exams required by your state or the type of securities you want to sell.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs may find a career as a stockbroker suitable because it offers a fast-paced and dynamic work environment, as ESTPs tend to thrive in high-pressure situations and enjoy taking risks. 

Fitness Trainer

The roles and responsibilities of a fitness trainer include designing personalized workout plans for clients, demonstrating proper exercise techniques, motivating and encouraging clients to reach their fitness goals, and educating clients on healthy lifestyle choices such as nutrition and stress management.

General Prerequisites

Ideally, a fitness trainer should have knowledge of anatomy, exercise physiology, and nutrition. They need excellent communication skills and experience in fitness training or related fields. Some employers may also require a background check and CPR/First Aid certification.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are active and energetic individuals who enjoy physical challenges and are often drawn to careers that involve action and movement. Fitness trainers use their physical skills and knowledge to help clients achieve their fitness goals, which also aligns with the strengths of an ESTP.

Project Manager

Project managers plan, execute, and monitor a project from start to finish. They are accountable for delivering the project on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.

General Prerequisites

To become a project manager, you should possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as business, engineering, or project management. Experience in project management positions or leadership roles, and knowledge of project management tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello, are also beneficial. 

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs are known for their practical and action-oriented approach to life. They are decisive, adaptable, and thrive in fast-paced environments. These qualities align well with the demands of a project manager role.

Chef

A chef creates and executes menus that meet customer expectations and budget constraints. They are also responsible for managing kitchen staff, ordering ingredients, ensuring food safety and quality, and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen.

General Prerequisites

Most chefs have degrees or certificates from accredited culinary schools, which provide training in cooking techniques, nutrition, and kitchen management. Chefs start as apprentices or work their way up through kitchen positions, gaining experience and skills.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

ESTPs like to be actively engaged in their work and thrive in difficult situations, which are essential qualities for working in a fast-paced kitchen environment. They also tend to be highly observant, which can help them quickly assess ingredients, flavors, and textures to create well-balanced dishes.

Architect

An architect is responsible for creating and designing plans for buildings or structures. They work with clients to understand their needs and goals while considering safety, functionality, and aesthetics during construction projects.

General Prerequisites

To become an architect, you must complete a professional degree in architecture. Most architects must also obtain a license to practice architecture in the state or country where they wish to work.

What Makes This Career Suitable for ESTPs?

As extroverts, ESTPs enjoy collaborating with others and working in teams which is essential for successful architecture projects. Additionally, they are highly observant of their surroundings, an essential quality for an architect who must be aware of the environment and surroundings when designing a building.

ESTP Careers FAQs 

We’ve got the answers to your most frequently asked questions:

Can ESTPs Be Successful?

ESTPs can be very successful, as they are natural risk-takers, confident and adaptable individuals who thrive in dynamic environments. However, their impulsive nature and tendency to prioritize instant gratification over long-term goals may hinder their success in some situations.

What Are the Best High-Paying Careers for ESTPs?

Some of the best high-paying careers that may be a good fit for ESTPs include entrepreneurship, sales management, real estate, marketing, medicine, firefighting, or sports coaching.

What Are Some Careers Suited for ESTPs That Don’t Require a Degree?

Some careers that may be a good fit for ESTPs that don’t require a degree include electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, construction worker, mechanic, firefighter, policeman, and sales representative.

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About Sakshi Gupta

Sakshi is a Managing Editor at Springboard. She is a technology enthusiast who loves to read and write about emerging tech. She is a content marketer with experience in the Indian and US markets.