Openness

By 123test team. Updated June 29, 2023

Openness is one of the five personality traits of the Big Five personality theory. It indicates how open-minded a person is. A person with a high level of openness to experience in a personality test enjoys trying new things. They are imaginative, curious, and open-minded. Individuals who are low in openness to experience would rather not try new things. They are close-minded, literal and enjoy having a routine.

High openness means being creative and open to new ideas

Individuals with a high level of openness have a general appreciation for unusual ideas and art. They are usually imaginative, rather than practical. Being creative, open to new and different ideas, and in touch with their feelings are all characteristics of these people. Individuals who score lower in openness on a career test are generally more closed-off, resistant to change, and analytical. Find out more about your other Big Five characteristics and test personality by taking a free personality test.

Sub traits of the openness domain

Openness personality traits

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 openness domain are:

  • Imagination
  • Artistic interests
  • Emotionality
  • Adventurousness
  • Intellect
  • Liberalism


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Careers and openness trait

Having a high level of openness is important in jobs that require creative thinking and a flexible attitude. Jobs such as advertising, research, and other artistic occupations all benefit from high openness. A person who scores low in openness on a career test may excel in jobs that involve routine work and do not require creativity.

A free personality test gives you more insight

One of the most popular models used for personality tests today is the Big Five personality theory developed by a number of independent researchers. The openness trait is one of five domains in this theory. To learn about your other occupational preferences or test personality, take a free personality test or career test now.