What is RIASEC?
RIASEC is a theory of occupational interests developed by the American psychologist John L. Holland in the 1950s. The acronym stands for six personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising and Conventional.
The theory is built on the idea that people can be classified into these six types, and that occupations can similarly be described in terms of which types thrive in them. The better the match between your RIASEC type and a job's demands, the more likely you are to feel satisfied and succeed.
What do the six types mean?
- R – Realistic: Likes practical work, machinery, equipment and the outdoors. Examples: engineer, carpenter, pilot.
- I – Investigative: Likes researching, analysing and solving complex problems. Examples: scientist, doctor, software engineer.
- A – Artistic: Likes creative and original work. Examples: designer, musician, writer.
- S – Social: Likes helping, teaching and collaborating with others. Examples: teacher, nurse, psychologist.
- E – Enterprising: Likes leading, persuading and selling. Examples: salesperson, manager, lawyer.
- C – Conventional: Likes order, structure and precise work. Examples: accountant, administrator, librarian.
What does the research say?
The Holland model is one of the most validated and widely used frameworks in career counselling. Hundreds of studies have shown that the match between personality type and occupation is strongly correlated with job satisfaction, performance and low staff turnover.
How to use your results
After completing the RIASEC assessment on Rettesteg, you receive a three-letter code — for example IAS or RIE. This code is used to match you against hundreds of Norwegian occupations and show you which educational pathways fit best.
Remember that the assessment provides insight, not a definitive answer. Use the result as a starting point for reflection and conversation with a counsellor or parents.
Take the RIASEC assessment for free on Rettesteg and see which careers match your personality type.