While studies about the two personality types have been around since the 60s, you might be more familiar with the term “Type A” from its vernacular usage: a take-charge person with an eye for organization and management. The mother-in-law who insists on planning every aspect of the wedding, the buddy in school who completely takes over the group project in class – these are what you’d commonly refer to as Type A’s. 

They are highly motivated, and like to create a well-oiled environment wherever they go. These are wonderful traits, but unfortunately they are also traits that make Type A people ill suited to certain fields of work. Passively following orders has never been the MO of a Type A person. With that in mind, this article will look at four jobs that are perfect for ambitious, organized and impatient people. 

Event Planner

Planning an event means wearing multiple different hats and spinning multiple different plates. It takes shrewd organizational skills, a knack for multitasking and a love of bringing people together. It is the perfect job for anyone who loves to constantly be busy, as there are always fires to put out and people to meet. 

Film and TV Production

There is something for every kind of Type A person in the film and TV industry. Jobs like script supervisor or unit production manager are perfect for organizational wizzes, while assistant directing is great for take-charge people who love being on their feet. Jobs like camera operator, grip or electrician, meanwhile, require focus and dedication and so are also well suited to the Type A personality. While it can be tricky knowing how to get started in the entertainment business there are mentorship and networking programs that can help you get a foot in the door. 

Entrepreneur

In order to succeed, an entrepreneur needs to be highly motivated, competitive and ambitious. Creating a profitable business from scratch requires the kind of gumption a Type A person has in excess, but it also requires collaboration. It is often said of Type A’s that they have trouble giving the reins to others, but a true entrepreneurial spirit knows that it can be beneficial to listen to the expertise of fellow professionals and friends. 

Book or Magazine Editor

Laser-like focus and a keen eye for organization underpin this profession, which, despite internet articles decrying the death of the written word, is still alive and well. Editorship plays nicely into the Type A tendency to want control over a final product, as well as the tendency to work well under deadlines. This is another tricky industry to get started in, with many publishers and magazines requiring higher education, but there are other, more circuitous routes you can take. 

While these professions are by no means only for Type A people, they are each well suited to the personality type, and can be very rewarding for people who are motivated, organized and ambitious. If you are just entering the job market, or are contemplating a new direction, and you identify as a Type A, try one of these amazing professions.