Extraversion

By 123test team. Updated June 29, 2023

Extraversion is one of the five personality traits of the Big Five personality theory. Extraversion indicates how outgoing and social a person is. A person who scores high in extraversion on a personality test is the life of the party. They enjoy being with people, participating in social gatherings, and are full of energy. A person low in extraversion is less outgoing and is more comfortable working by himself.

Person high in extraversion is outgoing and enthusiastic

Individuals high in extraversion on a career test have a tendency to seek out the company and stimulation of other people. They enjoy engaging with the external world. These individuals thrive on excitement, and are enthusiastic, action-oriented people. They like to be the center of attention in groups.

On the other side of the coin are introverts. These people have less exuberance and energy than extraverts. They are less involved in social activities, and tend to be quiet and keep to themselves. An introvert does not require the external stimulation that extraverts do. Find out more about your other Big Five characteristics and test personality by taking a free personality test.

Sub traits of the extraversion trait

Extraversion personality trait

Each of the Big Five personality traits is made up of six facets or sub traits. These can be assessed independently of the trait that they belong to in a personality test. The sub traits of the extraversion domain are:

  • Friendliness
  • Gregariousness
  • Assertiveness
  • Activity level
  • Excitement-seeking
  • Cheerfulness


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Careers and extraversion trait

Different jobs require different levels of extraversion. A high level of extraversion may be useful for jobs that require a great deal of interaction with other people, like public relations, teaching, and sales. Positions that are more focused on working independently and alone may be more suited to individuals with a lower level of extraversion.

Big Five extraversion trait visually explained

Big Five personality trait extraversion

Gain new insight about occupational strengths through a free personality test

Many people have traits from several personality types. The extraversion trait is one of five domains in the Big Five personality theory developed by independent researchers over many decades. Many recruiters and career counselors use this model to test personality. Find out more about your work preferences and personality type. Take a free personality test or career test now.