6 Pieces of Career Advice It's Okay for ESTPs to Ignore
As an ESTP, you may feel defiant when asked to conform to traditional career advice. After all, your personality type is known for being spontaneous and action-oriented, making you less likely to follow rigid rules or structures.
However, while some pieces of career advice are valuable and can definitely benefit ESTPs—building good networks, for example—there are others that may not align with your natural tendencies. Here are six pieces of career advice that it's okay for ESTPs to ignore.
1. "Stick to one career path."
Traditional career advice often encourages individuals to choose a specific career path and stick to it throughout their entire working life. This may involve choosing a major in college and pursuing a related career, or climbing the corporate ladder within one industry. However, as an ESTP, you may find yourself feeling restless and wanting to try different things. And that's okay! Your adventurous nature and ability to adapt quickly make you well-suited for exploring different careers and industries. Don't be afraid to switch things up and pursue new opportunities that come your way.
2. "Plan everything out."
Planning is important for achieving success, but as an ESTP, you may find it difficult to stick to a strict plan. Rather than trying to force yourself into a structured routine, embrace your natural ability to improvise and make decisions on the spot. This can be especially beneficial in fast-paced environments where quick decision-making is crucial. Your spontaneity and flexibility can help you stand out and excel in your career.
3. "Be more focused."
ESTPs are often described as having a "jack-of-all-trades" approach to life, and this can be reflected in their career choices as well. You may find yourself drawn to multiple interests and wanting to pursue them all at the same time. While it's important to have a focus and set goals, don't feel pressured to limit yourself to just one area. Your diverse range of skills and interests can actually be an asset in the workplace, allowing you to bring a unique perspective and tackle challenges from different angles.
4. "Avoid taking risks."
Traditional career advice often encourages individuals to play it safe and avoid taking risks. However, as an ESTP, you thrive on adrenaline and may even enjoy pushing boundaries. While it's important to assess risks and make informed decisions, don't let fear hold you back from taking calculated risks. Your ability to think on your feet and take action can lead you to exciting opportunities and help you achieve success in your career.
5. "Always follow the rules."
As someone who enjoys living in the moment and making quick decisions, following strict rules may not be your forte. However, this doesn't mean you should completely disregard rules and regulations in the workplace. Instead, use your natural charm and charisma to navigate situations where rules may need to be bent or broken. Just make sure to use your good judgment and avoid causing any harm or damage in the process.
6. "Stay in your lane."
While it's important to have a level of stability and security in your career, which many get from becoming an expert in their area, as an ESTP, it's also okay to embrace your desire for variety and stimulation. This may mean branching out into different roles or industries, or taking on side projects, even if they may seem unrelated to your previous experiences. Your willingness to take on new challenges can lead you to new opportunities and help you grow both personally and professionally.
Summing up
While some traditional career advice may be helpful for ESTPs, it's important to recognize that you have unique strengths and preferences. Don't be afraid to stray from the norm and create your own path in the working world. This is where Truity's career aptitude test can be a valuable resource. Whether you're job hunting, feeling stuck in your current role, or simply seeking further understanding about careers that align with your personality traits and skills, this test offers ESTP’s personalized advice and suggestions. Your success and fulfillment in your career ultimately depend on what works best for you, so trust yourself and keep moving forward. Happy exploring!
