Are you a creative or analytical thinker?
It’s no secret that the way you think can affect your career choices and determine what role you are most suited for. If you are comfortable with data and statistics, you may be more inclined to choose a role where you can use your analytical ability. If you’re more of a big picture person with lots of new ideas, you might prefer a role that allows you to think more creatively.
These two styles of thinking are referred to as analytical and creative—let’s look at what they mean and what roles you can expect to find depending on the type of thinker you are.
What is creative thinking?
Creative thinking is about taking a new approach and coming up with something that has never been done before. Creative thinkers tend to seek opportunities where they can be inventive and original. These thinkers aren’t necessarily only artistic types, they can also be creative problem-solvers. Even industries that aren’t typically seen as ‘creative’ (such as engineering or science) still require creative solutions to complex problems.
The best jobs for creative thinkers.
- Video game designer.
- Journalist.
- Advertising executive.
Creative thinkers work best in an environment that allows them to use their imagination and creativity to come up with new ideas. If you’re a creative thinker, you are most comfortable in roles where you are not limited by too much information, but rather guided by a brief that allows you to go in any direction you choose. Some examples of creative jobs include;
1. Video game designer.
If you have a passion for video games and want to turn it into a career, you can become a video game designer. This is a creative field that allows you to design characters and create puzzles or levels in a variety of formats from mobile to PC and gaming consoles. The way that video game technology has evolved in just the last 15-20 years means there are plenty of jobs for game designers in the future.
2. Journalist.
If you have strong written communication skills, you might do well in a career as a writer, author or journalist. Journalists mainly work for publications or as freelancers—interviewing sources, coming up with story ideas and writing interesting, thought-provoking pieces. Some journalists also work in television; investigating and researching topical news stories. Journalists are creative thinkers because they must constantly work with people, ideas and information to find an angle that tells a captivating story.
3. Advertising executive.
There are many different types of roles in marketing, but those in advertising tend to require the most creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Advertising executives, copywriters and art directors work together to come up with new concepts to help a company or client sell more products. In a role like this, you’ll be expected to throw ideas around on most days, so having an active imagination is certainly beneficial.
What is analytical thinking?
An analytical thinker works with existing information and data to decipher the facts and reach a logical conclusion. If you’re an analytical thinker, your problem-solving ability relies on how well you can analyse information, determine its value and apply it in a real-life situation. You value logic and will only draw conclusions if you have enough evidence. Analytical thinking requires the ability to see patterns, or cause and effect in often complex situations.
The best jobs for analytical thinkers.
- Business analyst.
- Computer technician.
- Web or software application developer.
Analytical thinkers are highly sought after in the workplace because the decisions they make are high in validity and backed by facts and figures. If you possess strong analytical thinking skills, you are most suited to roles where you can use logical reasoning, such as:
1. Business analyst.
A business analyst works within an organisation, usually as part of the IT team and conducts market analyses to ensure business requirements are being met. Strong analytical skills are essential, since business analysts are responsible for outlining problems, coming up with viable solutions, budgeting and forecasting, and reporting back to teams and stakeholders.
2. Computer technician.
Computer technicians are responsible for the maintenance of computer systems within an organisation. They also provide technical support to customers. In order to identify and resolve issues, computer technicians must be able to think analytically. Computing is, without a doubt, one of the largest industries employing skilled technicians and this sector is expected to grow strongly over the next five years.
3. Web or software application developer.
Web development requires both analytical and creative skills in some cases. A web developer must be able to analyse information, correct mistakes and implement strategies to create functional websites or applications. An analytical mindset is important because web developers must consider both the big picture and small details. The ICT40120 - Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development) is a great place to start if you’re interested in pursuing this career.
Still unsure about your career path?
Your thinking style is just one component that can help you determine what career path suits you best. The good news is, there are plenty more career options than those listed above—so whether you’re a creative or analytical person, look for a role where you can make the most of your natural abilities.
If you want more information about choosing a career based on your strengths, you can chat to one of Upskilled's education consultants by giving them a call on 1300 009 924.
)
)
