The 8 Best Jobs for ENTP Personality Types

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Heather Mullinix
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Heather Mullinix is an award-winning journalist and writer living in Tennessee. She writes about education, government, healthcare, and the outdoors. She graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a bachelor's degree in journalism....
Updated on March 22, 2023
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Business Consultant | Physician | Computer Systems Analyst | Stock Trader | Politician | Entrepreneur | UX Designer | Life Coach


ENTP personality types — who are extroverted, intuitive, thinking, and perceiving — seek solutions to problems or challenges. Thomas Jefferson, Walt Disney, and Nikola Tesla were all ENTPs, who make up about 3% of the population.

These people enjoy engaging others in discussions and debates, and they approach problems with a creative outlook. ENTPs also love learning new things and possess a curiosity about the world around them.

ENTPs often seek out careers that offer some creative freedom. They typically enjoy working with others and using their leadership skills, but they also thrive in jobs that provide flexibility and spontaneity rather than relying on daily routines. While ENTPs focus on ideas and concepts, they use logic and reasoning to develop their creative solutions.

The 8 Best Careers for ENTP Personality Types

Business Consultant

Business and management consultants help organizations find new ways to serve their customers while increasing profits. Consultants may focus on production methods, staff organization, or software tools. Each business poses new challenges and requires consultants to craft creative solutions, which may appeal to ENTPs.

Consultants often split their time between a client's workplace and their own office. They may work with teams to gather input and learn about each department's structure and purpose. The job may involve tight deadlines and frequent travel.

Job Outlook

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 11% job growth for business and management consultants between 2019 and 2029. This would equate to the creation of approximately 93,800 new jobs. The BLS also reports that these consultants earn a median annual salary of $85,260.

The healthcare and information technology industries may provide many of these growth opportunities, though companies in a variety of fields often rely on business consultants to remain competitive and profitable.

Educational Requirements

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While some employers may only require a bachelor's degree, an MBA or a related graduate program can help build the leadership and business skills needed to evaluate business operations.

You can also seek out professional certifications, such as the Institute of Management Consultants' certified management consultant designation. While many businesses hire dedicated consultants, about 15% of management analysts are self-employed.

Popular Online Business Programs

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Physician

Physicians use their communication skills and creative thinking to diagnose and treat patients. Many physicians specialize in a type of medicine, such as internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics, oncology, or pediatrics.

Physicians may work in hospitals, physician groups, or private practice. They have to ask questions about their patients' health history and symptoms, choose tests to identify the cause of complaints, and develop plans of care. They must also keep detailed records, though medical assistants and office staff can assist with this detail-oriented work.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 4% job growth for physicians and surgeons between 2019 and 2029, although demand varies by specialty and location. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a shortfall of 139,000 physicians in the U.S. by 2033, as doctors retire and the population ages.

According to the BLS, physicians earn a median annual salary of more than $208,000; however, wages can vary significantly by specialty. For example, anesthesiologists report a median salary of $261,730, whereas pediatricians earn $184,410 per year.

Educational Requirements

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Becoming a physician requires years of education and supervised practice. Physicians must earn an undergraduate degree, graduate from medical school, and then spend 3-7 years completing internship and residency programs.

Medical school requires four years of study, and the admissions process is competitive. Schools consider an applicant's academic achievement, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular or volunteer activities.

After completing training, you must get a state license to practice. This process includes passing a national licensure exam. While not required, board certification can increase your employment opportunities.

Popular Online Healthcare Programs

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Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts work closely with business leaders and IT staff members to evaluate computer systems for efficiency and security. They plan and implement upgrades and system improvements and often provide staff training.

This career requires strong collaboration and communication, which may suit ENTPs. The information and computer systems at each organization may be slightly different, allowing analysts to craft creative solutions. Contractors in this field enjoy new challenges with each new client.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 7% growth in computer systems analysts' employment between 2019 and 2029. A growing number of business functions require secure computer systems, particularly in the healthcare and financial industries.

Computer system analysts earn a median annual salary of $90,920, with top earners making more than $147,670 per year. You can find career opportunities in multiple industries, including business management, finance, and insurance.

Educational Requirements

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Most computer systems analysts earn a degree in computer science or a related field. A master's degree offers opportunities to specialize in healthcare information systems or project management.

New technology continues to impact the market, and computer systems analysts must stay abreast of these developments. Ongoing training and professional certifications ensure you possess the latest knowledge to best serve your clients.

Popular Online Computer Systems Programs

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Stock Trader

Stock traders combine their understanding of finance with a sales focus to help businesses, investors, and individuals meet their financial goals. Traders study financial markets and company performance to advise their clients, often working in an exchange market like the New York Stock Exchange.

Stock traders work in a high-stress environment, which ENTP individuals may find invigorating. Their decisions can directly impact their clients' financial health, and stock exchanges feature strict time constraints in which traders must make decisions quickly.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 4% job growth for stock traders and other financial services sales agents between 2019 and 2029. These professionals make a median annual salary of $62,270, but the highest 10% of earners make more than $204,130 per year. Compensation typically includes a base salary and a commission on sales.

Because of the potential for high wages, competition for available jobs can be fierce. Consolidation and automation within the financial services industry may slow employment growth, even though demand for stocks and financial products continues to grow.

Educational Requirements

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A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or economics prepares you to enter this field. Internships can also help you develop a professional network and audition with firms for full-time positions. Many stock traders earn an MBA or a similar degree as well.

Stock trading remains a highly regulated industry. In addition to earning a degree, you must register with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and pass a series of licensing exams. You can also seek professional certifications to help your application stand out in a competitive job market.

Popular Online Finance Programs

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Politician

Politicians develop policies and laws to help govern their community, state, or nation. To work in politics, you need strong active listening skills and an ability to communicate complex issues clearly and concisely — traits that ENTPs often possess. Politicians also need logical reasoning and creative problem-solving abilities to develop legislation.

Many elected officials hire staff members who help them research legislative issues, communicate with constituents, and manage their offices. Lobbyists advocate for industries or causes, such as increasing funding for medical research or setting educational standards.

Job Outlook

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Elected officials make up federal, state, and local legislative bodies. Each election offers an opportunity for aspiring politicians to run for office. Pay varies widely by office. For example, many local positions may only offer a stipend for attending monthly meetings, while others may provide full-time employment.

Political scientists -- a related position -- earn a median salary of $122,220, with almost half of these individuals working for the federal government. The BLS projects 6% job growth for these professionals between 2019 and 2029.

Educational Requirements

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Requirements for political office typically include living in the area you represent and being over 18 years old, though some offices may set higher age requirements. Most elected offices do not require a degree or training. You must win your election and keep winning elections to remain in your role.

Individuals can prepare for other political careers, such as lobbyist or legislative staff members, by studying political science. Political scientists often delve into research and the impact of policy decisions. These positions may require a master's degree or higher.

Popular Online Political Science Programs

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Entrepreneur

Entrepreneurs take their business dreams and make them a reality. From small businesses to large tech startups, entrepreneurs seek new opportunities and new ventures, often at significant financial risk.

Entrepreneurs operate in all industries, with many identifying as self-employed. They may provide a service or a product. Usually, an entrepreneur has discovered a solution to a common problem and then works on selling that solution to customers.

Job Outlook

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Pew Research Center reported that 16 million Americans were self-employed in July 2019. Those individuals and their employees made up 30% of the nation's workforce in 2014, representing about 44 million jobs. These individuals work in all fields, from fashion to technology.

Educational Requirements

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To launch your own business, you need an idea, a business plan, and funding. Becoming an entrepreneur also requires determination and grit -- you have to think creatively and be willing to take on most of the work, especially at the beginning of your venture. This working environment may appeal to ENTPs.

Entrepreneurs also benefit from having an understanding of business fundamentals, from accounting and supply chain management to marketing and IT. You may earn a degree in business or another area that complements your business plan. Some schools offer interdisciplinary degrees in entrepreneurship at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Popular Online Entrepreneurship Programs

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UX Designer

UX designers help computer programmers understand how people will use a website, app, or other type of technology. The field combines technology and computer engineering with market research, psychology, and design.

UX designers conduct competitor analysis and customer research to learn what users need, what other products offer, and how companies can improve their products. They coordinate with developers and conduct testing, helping fine-tune new products before they go to market.

Job Outlook

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The BLS projects 8% job growth for digital interface designers and web developers between 2019 and 2029. Much of this growth stems from the expansion of e-commerce and mobile apps. Web developers and digital designers earn a median annual salary of $73,760.

Educational Requirements

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Creativity, customer service skills, and an eye for detail can help UX designers succeed. Educational requirements vary by employer, but a degree in computer programming can help you gain a thorough understanding of languages like HTML, JavaScript, and Flash.

Ongoing training and professional development ensure digital designers understand the latest trends and the newest technologies. Digital design bootcamps can provide up-to-date training and help individuals transition from other fields to UX design, often within just a few months.

Popular Online UX Programs

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Life Coach

Life coaches work with clients to help them accomplish their goals. These professionals use a combination of coaching and counseling to help people figure out how to take on a new career, create a better work-life balance, and improve their physical health. Life coaches may specialize in health and wellness, leadership development, or relationships.

Each client's needs differ, and so must each life coach's plan. ENTPs often excel in this role because life coaches need good communication skills to understand clients' goals. They must also juggle competing priorities while using their creativity to develop targeted coaching plans.

Job Outlook

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The BLS does not collect data on life coaches specifically. Instead, the agency groups these professionals with other occupations, such as personal care and service workers or rehabilitation counselors. That said, the International Coach Federation has seen tremendous growth from 1999 to 2013, increasing from about 1,500 members to more than 17,000 members.

PayScale reports life coaches earn an average salary of $49,460 each year. Many coaches own their own businesses, while others may work for coaching or consulting companies.

Educational Requirements

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A background in psychology or counseling can help life coaches serve their clients. For example, earning a degree in psychology, health science, or sports medicine may help establish your expertise in your specialization area.

You can also seek out professional credentials. Although this field remains mostly unregulated, the International Coach Federation offers programs based on specific professional standards.

Taking advantage of mentoring opportunities and attending seminars can help workers develop effective coaching techniques. These activities can also help you build a professional network, which can be useful for referrals and support.

Popular Online Psychology & Counseling Programs

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Additional ENTP Career Options

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    Attorney
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    Public Relations Specialist
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    Financial Planner
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    Training Manager
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    Copywriter
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    Market Researcher
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    Environmental Scientist
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    Photographer
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    Game Designer
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    Film Producer
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    Journalist
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    Sales Representative
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    Software Developer
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    Sociologist
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    Teacher

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BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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