John Holland's Career Development Theory

John Holland's Career Development Theory, formulated in 1959, is a significant framework in vocational psychology and career counseling. It focuses on matching individuals with suitable careers based on their personality types. Holland classified both jobs and personalities into six categories, often represented as the RIASEC model. These categories are:

Realistic (R): Involves practical, hands-on tasks and skills. People in this category prefer physical activities and working with tools or machines. Careers often include engineering, agriculture, and skilled trades.

Investigative (I): Focuses on analytical, intellectual activities. Investigative types enjoy working with ideas and theories. Typical careers include sciences, mathematics, and technical writing.

Artistic (A): Characterized by creativity, originality, and self-expression. People in this category thrive in environments where they can create and innovate. Careers include those in the arts, design, and writing.

Social (S): Involves interaction with others and helping, instructing, or counseling people. Social types are often found in teaching, counseling, nursing, and social work.

Enterprising (E): Centers around leading and persuading others, often in business environments. These individuals are often drawn to careers in sales, management, and politics.

Conventional (C): Involves structured, rule-regulated tasks. People in this category often prefer working with data and details. Typical careers might include accounting, banking, and administration.

The theory posits that choosing a career that aligns with one's personality type can lead to greater job satisfaction, performance, and success.


John Holland's theory is invaluable in coaching as it provides a structured approach to understand client personalities and align career goals accordingly. It aids in identifying suitable career paths, enhancing job satisfaction, and personal fulfillment. Incorporating this theory into coaching curricula ensures a more tailored and effective guidance process, crucial for helping individuals make informed career decisions and achieve professional growth.

Links in comments

Thinking Feeling Being

We support people and organisations achieve their goals through facilitation, workshops, mentoring, mediation and sharing change resources

#mediation #coach #mentor #philosophy #psychology #purpose #thinking #feeling #icfcoach #coaching #facilitation, #workshops, #mentoring, #mediation #changeresources


Follow me....

Corporate insights (Adapt Consulting)

https://www.linkedin.com/company/adapt-consulting-company/
https://www.adaptconsultingcompany.com/company/
https://www.instagram.com/adaptconsultingcompany/

SUBSCRIBE For those managing change within teams or businesses.
https://mailchi.mp/9fee22102e71/signup

Coaching resources (Thinking Feeling Being)

https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkingfeelingbeing
https://thinkingfeelingbeing.com/about
https://www.instagram.com/thinking_feeling_being

SUBSCRIBE For those interested in coaching, wellbeing, and personal growth.
https://mailchi.mp/cddf4c91d169/welcome