A career interest inventory, The Self-Directed Search, which is based on Holland's theory and used by Psychologists and Vocational Counselors, is a very commonly used device for helping explore work interests. As the theory goes, these six environment descriptors can be used to describe any job. The Holland occupational environments offer a useful and interesting way of thinking about work and work interests. Investigative jobs are characterized by thinking, organizing and understanding. These jobs are well represented by chemists, biologists, and laboratory technicians.
Artistic jobs involve self-expression and relating to others through artistic expression.
Social jobs involve working with others in a teaching or helping way, as do Teachers, Social Workers, and Therapists. Enterprising jobs require verbal skills and influencing others, as with sales and politics. Conventional jobs involve following procedures, rules, and regulations. Bookkeeper and Bank Teller are examples of conventional job types. As noted, the Holland theory is a useful way of describing jobs, and a useful way of exploring interests.