10 Job Ideas for People with Social Anxiety
For people with social anxiety, finding the right job can feel like a challenge on its own. Contrary to what many people might think, social anxiety is more than just feeling shy in front of others—it can lead to intense feelings of fear and discomfort in social interactions and performance-based situations.
However, there are plenty of career options that allow you to highlight your skills, talents, and strengths without the anxiety that comes with high-pressure social situations. Below are some of the most ideal jobs for people with social anxiety that can offer a comfortable balance of independence and a supportive work environment.
Disclaimer: This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are countless other career paths that might suit your interests and abilities. Please reach out to your employment coach to work out what is suitable for your individual situation and preferences.
1. Writer
As a writer, your words become your voice. A writing career offers a flexible and independent work environment where you can express your creativity and ideas in solitude. Whether you’re writing blogs, articles, books, or copy for businesses, this role gives you the flexibility to work at your own pace. With plenty of remote job opportunities available, you focus on your craft from the comfort of your home and with minimal need for face-to-face interactions.
Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or other related fields
Average Salary Range: $85,086 to $147,963 per year
2. Graphic Designer
A graphic designer prepares sketches and creates visual content for various projects, from websites to printed materials, logos, product packaging, and more. Occasionally, you might be required to meet clients or collaborate with creative directors and copywriters to align with the overall goals of the project. However, the bulk of the design and editing work is often a solo task, so you will still be able to work independently most of the time.
Requirements: Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Design or other related fields, technical skills in design software, portfolio of previous design works
Average Salary Range: $74,000 to $109,111 per year
Where to Find the Right Opportunities: Finding the right job that suits your strengths and interests while offering a supportive environment isn’t always easy. However, NDIS-registered service providers like Nexus are designed to help people with disabilities connect with employers who prioritise inclusivity and mental well-being.
3. Software Developer
Software developers design, build, and test computer programs, websites, mobile apps, or software tools using code and programming languages. Many software developers have the flexibility to work remotely, allowing them to focus on coding and other problem-solving tasks with minimal distraction.
Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Programming, Information Technology, or related fields
Average Salary Range: $80,000 to $100,000 per year
4. Researcher
As a researcher, much of your time is spent gathering, analysing, and interpreting data or information, often in a quiet and focused environment. This makes it one of the best jobs for people with social anxiety as the role requires minimal social interaction and allows you to work independently. However, depending on the industry, some researchers are tasked to conduct interviews as part of their data collection process. If this is the case, keep in mind that not all interviews need to be in-person—many may be conducted through email or online platforms, where you can control the setting and pace of the conversation.
Requirements: A Bachelor’s Degree in the field of study of your choice is a basic requirement. However, a PhD may be preferred in certain fields depending on your area of expertise.
Average Salary Range: $90,000 to $110,000 per year
5. Factory Worker
If you prefer routine tasks with minimal social engagement, a role in factory work could be a great fit. In this role, you may most likely be working with machines and products without the need for constant social interaction, allowing you to work independently in a controlled environment. Depending on your qualifications, you may be tasked with engineering, production process or assembly, packaging, machine operation, maintenance, quality assurance, or health and safety.
Requirements: Diploma in High School, Certifications in Safety and other related disciplines
Average Salary Range: $55,000 to $65,000
6. Mechanic or Technician
Working in this field is one of the well-suited jobs for people with social anxiety as it allows them to focus on hands-on tasks and problem-solving in a quiet, structured environment. Mechanics often work independently, and interactions with customers are typically brief and straightforward. This job highlights your technical skills as you perform machine repairs, inspections, and maintenance.
Requirements: Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis or Automotive Mechanical Overhauling, Diploma of Automotive Technology
Average Salary Range: $75,000 to $95,000 per year
7. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings or live proceedings and transcribe them into written documents. Individuals with social anxiety may find this role particularly appealing as it allows them to concentrate on detailed, repetitive tasks without the pressure of face-to-face communication. Transcriptionists are often tasked with this job in various industries, including law firms and courtrooms, hospitals, academic and research institutions, media companies, government agencies, and insurance firms.
Requirements: Depending on your chosen specialisation, you may be required to pass relevant online courses or acquire certifications (e.g., a Medical Audio-Transcription Certificate or a Certificate of Transcription – Medical/Legal/General)
Average Salary Range: $60,903 to $69,961 per year
8. Statistician
For those who love working with numbers, a role as a statistician could be one of the best jobs for people with social anxiety. In this role, you will be tasked to gather, analyse, and interpret numerical data to assist in many business decision-making processes. You may also be asked to present your findings to managers and stakeholders, although this can be delivered through written reports or virtual presentations. Statisticians are often employed across various industries, including business, health and medicine, government, and physical and environmental sciences.
Requirements: Bachelor of Statistics, Bachelor of Science in Statistics, accreditation from the Statistical Society of Australia (optional)
Average Salary Range: $99,466 to $127,948 per year
9. Landscaper or Gardener
If you prefer working outdoors compared to a desk job but without the typical social demands of many other roles, a career as a landscaper or gardener could be a great fit. These roles let you focus on planting, pruning, and designing outdoor spaces, which give you the freedom to work independently or with a small team. Additionally, landscaping and gardening offer a calming environment as you will be mostly immersed in nature.
Requirements: AQF III in Landscape Construction or Landscape Gardening
Average Salary Range: $64,220 to $82,500 per year
10. Veterinary Assistant
As a veterinary assistant, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with animals by administering treatments, recording their health information, and providing any support a veterinarian needs so they can do their jobs efficiently. While some interaction with clients and veterinarians is necessary in the day-to-day, the job’s focus is primarily on the care and well-being of animals. This can make social interactions more manageable, as they are often brief and task-oriented.
Requirements: Certificate II in Animal Studies, Certificate III in Animal Studies, and/or Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
Average Salary Range: $54,335 to $85,124 per year
Jobs That May Pose Challenges for People with Social Anxiety
While there are many opportunities available for people with social anxiety, some jobs may heighten the stress due to the high levels of interpersonal interaction they require. These jobs mostly involve face-to-face interactions, making them less suitable for people who thrive in quieter, less interactive environments.
- Call center agent or telemarketer
- Restaurant server
- Retail sales associates
- Salesperson
- Event planner
Remember that while these fields may present challenges, there are plenty of jobs for individuals with social anxiety to explore. You may also consider alternative roles in similar industries that allow for more autonomy and less social interaction. Finding a low-stress job that minimises your triggers and allows for flexibility can help you focus more on highlighting your strengths.
Tips for Finding the Right Job
Searching for the right job involves understanding what your strengths are and which situations pose the most challenges to you. With these do’s and don’ts, you can better filter your options and understand what you need in a work environment.
- Identify your triggers. List down what specific social situations are most likely to trigger your anxiety and consider how they might affect your work life.
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- Do you feel anxious in face-to-face conversations, group settings, public speaking or presentations, phone calls, open-plan workspaces, or customer-facing roles?
- How intense is your anxiety in these situations? Take some time to reflect on how these situations affect you and your overall ability to perform tasks effectively.
By understanding the specific social situations that trigger your anxiety, you’ll be better equipped to choose jobs that align with your strengths.
- Leverage your strengths. Amplify the skills you already have. Craft an outstanding resume that focuses on your strengths and previous accomplishments.
- Take gradual steps. If you’re interested in a particular field but worried about its social demands, consider starting in an entry-level position that requires less social interaction. As you become more comfortable or develop coping strategies, you can gradually work your way up or expand your job options.
- Don’t hesitate to seek help and support. Disability Employment Services (DES) can connect you to employers offering jobs for people with social anxiety. You can connect with a career counsellor who can help you find a job that aligns with your interests and strengths.
Let us Help You Find Your Dream Job
At Nexus, we understand that finding the right job when dealing with social anxiety can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through the process alone. We are committed to helping people with physical and invisible disabilities find jobs where they can thrive and leverage their skills.
Our tailored job placement services focus on finding careers that match your strengths, offer flexibility, and provide the supportive and safe environment you need to succeed. Let us be your partner in your first step toward a fulfilling and empowering career.
FAQ
1. Is social anxiety a disability?
Social anxiety may be classified as a psychosocial disability when an individual’s social anxiety severely affects their daily functioning and creates substantial difficulties in their learning, mobility, communication, social interaction, and self-care. [1]
2. Can socially anxious people be successful?
Absolutely. People with social anxiety can be just as successful as anyone else. With the right job that accommodates your preferences and minimises triggers, you can thrive and achieve success. Moreover, developing effective coping mechanisms and building self-confidence over time can further enhance your career journey. [2]
3. How to get a job when you have social anxiety?
Start by identifying your triggers, but don’t limit yourself to jobs that only cater to your anxiety. Instead, focus on finding roles that align with your skills and strengths while providing a supportive environment that minimises your challenges. Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out to Disability Employment Services (DES) to help you navigate the job search process.
4. What do people with social anxiety avoid?
Every person is different and has their own unique triggers. However, it’s common among individuals with social anxiety to avoid situations that involve a high level of social interaction or cause them to feel judged, scrutinised, or out of their comfort zone. [3] While these situations can be manageable, it’s important to remember that with the right job, coping strategies and accommodations, people with social anxiety can still thrive in their careers and personal lives.
5. Can people with severe social anxiety work?
Absolutely. People with severe social anxiety can work successfully, especially in environments that minimise stressful interactions. With the right support and understanding of their needs, they can thrive in careers that align with their strengths.