24 answers
Bryce
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
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I am interested in going into IT. I value friendship and working alone. Is this a good career for me?
Technology and jobs
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23 answers
Erick Peña
R&D Tax
2
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Erick’s Answer
Hi There,
Yes, IT can be a fantastic career for someone who values both friendship and working independently.
If you enjoy deep focus work like coding, troubleshooting, configuring systems, analyzing data. Here are a few roles I'd suggest exploring:
Software Developer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Systems Administrator
Yes, IT can be a fantastic career for someone who values both friendship and working independently.
If you enjoy deep focus work like coding, troubleshooting, configuring systems, analyzing data. Here are a few roles I'd suggest exploring:
Software Developer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Systems Administrator
Mohammad Abdelqader
QA Engineer
3
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Mohammad’s Answer
Absolutely, IT is the future of jobs. Almost everything happens online now. Problem-solving and teamwork are very important, and good communication is essential. Choosing a specific path in IT can be challenging, but watching job-related videos on YouTube can help. I suggest picking two roles you're interested in and trying to get as many internships as possible. This is a great way to start your career.
Michelle Sellers
Communication, change management
10
Answers
Montgomery, Texas
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
It could be. Introverts tend to do well in science and technology- particularly with lab work, research, etc. It will be important that you speak with people in the industry to understand all the different types of roles, which are done best by teams and what can be done more autonomously.
John Luna
Sr. Security and Identity Access Management Engineer
5
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
John’s Answer
Traits I look for in a good fit:
1. Do you take responsibility for a problem and solve it completely?
2. Can you understand manuals and explain them to others?
3. Are you able to spot a problem or goal and create a plan to address it?
4. Do you stay curious and learn new things independently?
5. Can you interact with others respectfully and treat them as equals?
1. Do you take responsibility for a problem and solve it completely?
2. Can you understand manuals and explain them to others?
3. Are you able to spot a problem or goal and create a plan to address it?
4. Do you stay curious and learn new things independently?
5. Can you interact with others respectfully and treat them as equals?
Cody West
Information Technology Manager
4
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Cody’s Answer
Absolutely, IT is a great fit for those guidelines! Throughout most of my career, I've worked either solo or in small teams of 2 or 3. Even when working alone, we supported each other by discussing problems and sharing tasks. It's really important to develop strong communication skills to share updates and fully grasp the project's scope.
Mike Quintal
Technology Leader
11
Answers
La Quinta, California
Updated
Mike’s Answer
So if your need for friendship extends to the workplace, consider your employer's expectations as it relates to remote working. IT is a good job for someone who likes to work alone. But you will not develop meaningful workplace friendships unless you are connecting with folks IRL.
Tyler Brodzinski
Consulting
3
Answers
Granger, Indiana
Updated
Tyler’s Answer
Hi Bryce! Great question. In IT, you can have a rewarding career as an individual contributor. You'll manage your own tasks and solve problems on your own, while still interacting with others. Try to build friendships with your coworkers. You can work independently and stay connected with your team at the same time. Good luck!
Trey Reddick
IT Consultant/Software Developer
1
Answer
Washington, Washington
Updated
Trey’s Answer
Absolutely! IT is a great career choice for someone who value friendship connections as well as working alone. As someone who values those same things I've found that working in IT brings me a good balance of both. I've developed great relationships with project team members while also being able to spend most of my day to day time in my own bubble working alone.
Eric Hong
Consulting
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Absolutely! There are plenty of chances in IT that can give you the experience you're seeking. Plus, there are many paths outside of IT where you can build great friendships or enjoy working independently.
Max C.
Cloud Engineer
4
Answers
Lake Mary, Florida
Updated
Max’s Answer
Hey Bryce,
From my personal experience in IT the last 8+ years, IT can be a great field for both values you mentioned. Whether in the office or remote, collaboration and friendships are definitely available as well as plenty of opportunities to demonstrate the ability to complete independent work. Like many things in life, you'll usually get what you put in, so if you come in with friendly and team building mindset I think you should be able to find others around you that share those values.
From my personal experience in IT the last 8+ years, IT can be a great field for both values you mentioned. Whether in the office or remote, collaboration and friendships are definitely available as well as plenty of opportunities to demonstrate the ability to complete independent work. Like many things in life, you'll usually get what you put in, so if you come in with friendly and team building mindset I think you should be able to find others around you that share those values.
Basak Gazioglu
Director, Business Process
13
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Basak’s Answer
If you love technology and want to learn more about AI, IT is a fantastic career choice. Plus, not all jobs in IT mean working by yourself; many involve teaming up with others.
Diana Durnford
Senior Consultant
8
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Diana’s Answer
IT is an exciting field with many opportunities. If you enjoy solving problems, you might love working on the implementation side, where you help businesses use new technology. This role offers fresh challenges and lets you stay active in the industry. There are many paths you can take, not just within a single organization. If you prefer working independently, IT within a company is also a great choice. You'll find plenty of teamwork and communication to understand what the business needs, and you'll be surrounded by people who think like you.
Leslie A. Dey, CSM, MSMIT
Management
6
Answers
Richmond, Virginia
Updated
Leslie A.’s Answer
Yes, absolutely! What is so great about working in I.T. is the ability to do and be who you want to be. There are always opportunities to work alone as well as collaboratively. Throughout my career, I have made many great friends and connections, but because sometimes its helpful for me to figure out things on my own, I have had opportunity to work independently. Quite honestly, this may be amongst the best career choices for mixing the friendship and individual work.
Lincoln Stewart
Software Developer
6
Answers
Mesa, Arizona
Updated
Lincoln’s Answer
Hi Bryce,
Absolutely, this field could be a great fit for what you're looking for. Sometimes, you'll need to chat with the team to explain or figure out problems during meetings. But most of the time, you'll be at your computer, solving programming puzzles.
If you love puzzles, this is a fantastic choice. Plus, you'll meet some wonderful people along the way. It's fascinating to see how everyone tackles problems differently based on their experiences.
Absolutely, this field could be a great fit for what you're looking for. Sometimes, you'll need to chat with the team to explain or figure out problems during meetings. But most of the time, you'll be at your computer, solving programming puzzles.
If you love puzzles, this is a fantastic choice. Plus, you'll meet some wonderful people along the way. It's fascinating to see how everyone tackles problems differently based on their experiences.
Nian Yee Chow
Online Business Manager
2
Answers
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Updated
Nian Yee’s Answer
In any career, having good social skills is a big advantage. Besides being good at your job, you'll probably need to work with teams and meet people from around the world. Making friends and expanding your network are important for growing in your career.
The great thing about studying IT is that it opens up many different areas and specialties. In this fast-changing field, it's important to keep learning. If you enjoy making friends, you can learn a lot from them and work with them as you explore new learning opportunities.
In the future, you might even add business, sales, or marketing skills to your IT knowledge, giving you more career options.
The great thing about studying IT is that it opens up many different areas and specialties. In this fast-changing field, it's important to keep learning. If you enjoy making friends, you can learn a lot from them and work with them as you explore new learning opportunities.
In the future, you might even add business, sales, or marketing skills to your IT knowledge, giving you more career options.
Mario Ramirez
Sr. Leader, Customer Delivery
54
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hey Bryce! Thanks a bunch for your question!
You know, human relationships are super important, more than ever! They need to be authentic, dynamic, empathic, and resilient, among other things. If you've already started building that muscle, that's awesome! Just keep exercising it to keep honing your skills and communication. That way, you can take your relationships to the next level!
In IT, it's always about that human-to-human communication. But nowadays, with AI around, that communication has become even more effective. It's crucial for business decisions to focus on genuine human interaction. So, it's a fantastic opportunity for you to keep developing your skills and IT knowledge. You'll really start to understand the unique blend that makes it all work!
You know, human relationships are super important, more than ever! They need to be authentic, dynamic, empathic, and resilient, among other things. If you've already started building that muscle, that's awesome! Just keep exercising it to keep honing your skills and communication. That way, you can take your relationships to the next level!
In IT, it's always about that human-to-human communication. But nowadays, with AI around, that communication has become even more effective. It's crucial for business decisions to focus on genuine human interaction. So, it's a fantastic opportunity for you to keep developing your skills and IT knowledge. You'll really start to understand the unique blend that makes it all work!
Rachana Paruchuri
oracle Hcm Consultant
20
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Rachana’s Answer
Hello,
Yes, IT can be a good fit—many roles let you do focused, independent work (like help desk, systems admin, security, or support) while still having a friendly team around you.
Look for positions that balance solo problem‑solving with occasional collaboration, and maybe try an intro IT course or certification (like CompTIA A+) to see how it feels.
Yes, IT can be a good fit—many roles let you do focused, independent work (like help desk, systems admin, security, or support) while still having a friendly team around you.
Look for positions that balance solo problem‑solving with occasional collaboration, and maybe try an intro IT course or certification (like CompTIA A+) to see how it feels.
Emmanuel Asong
Consulting
3
Answers
Greenbelt, Maryland
Updated
Emmanuel’s Answer
Yes — IT could be a very good fit for you.
It often gives you a mix of independent work and teamwork, which matches someone who likes working alone but still values good relationships. Many IT roles involve solving problems, learning new tools, and helping people behind the scenes, so if you enjoy thinking things through and being useful, that’s a strong sign.
One thing to keep in mind: IT is not just “working with computers.” It can also mean talking to people, troubleshooting issues, and adapting when systems change. So if you like quiet focus but can still communicate well when needed, you may do really well.
It often gives you a mix of independent work and teamwork, which matches someone who likes working alone but still values good relationships. Many IT roles involve solving problems, learning new tools, and helping people behind the scenes, so if you enjoy thinking things through and being useful, that’s a strong sign.
One thing to keep in mind: IT is not just “working with computers.” It can also mean talking to people, troubleshooting issues, and adapting when systems change. So if you like quiet focus but can still communicate well when needed, you may do really well.
Prashanth Sirikonda
7
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Prashanth’s Answer
IT could be a great fit for you, depending on what area you choose. If you like working alone, there are many roles like software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud engineering, and QA/testing that let you focus deeply and solve problems by yourself. But IT also involves teamwork, so you'll still need to join meetings and work with others sometimes. This isn't a bad thing; you don't have to be super social to do well.
If making friends at work is important to you, IT can be rewarding too. Many teams are supportive and form strong connections through shared projects. Look for a work environment where teamwork is respectful and not too loud or political. If you enjoy both working alone and connecting with others, IT might be just right for you.
Overall, IT is a good career for someone who likes working solo but also wants to build meaningful professional relationships. Try exploring different IT roles to see which ones excite you and which ones don't.
If making friends at work is important to you, IT can be rewarding too. Many teams are supportive and form strong connections through shared projects. Look for a work environment where teamwork is respectful and not too loud or political. If you enjoy both working alone and connecting with others, IT might be just right for you.
Overall, IT is a good career for someone who likes working solo but also wants to build meaningful professional relationships. Try exploring different IT roles to see which ones excite you and which ones don't.
Terry Helm, ING. MIM, MTM
Solution Manager - Technical Consulting
21
Answers
Ballwin, Missouri
Updated
Terry’s Answer
IT could be a great fit, but keep in mind that most IT jobs involve both working alone and with a team.
If you like working by yourself, IT is often a good choice because many tasks require focus, like troubleshooting, scripting, and setting up systems. But if you enjoy being around others, IT can also be a good fit since teamwork is important, especially in areas like help desk, infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
Think about what kind of social setting you prefer. IT is usually better for those who like a small, reliable team rather than constant networking. Jobs like system administration, cybersecurity, and network engineering offer a nice mix of solo work and team interaction. On the other hand, help desk roles can involve more people interaction, which might be tiring if you prefer working alone.
In my opinion, IT is a good career if you enjoy solving technical problems on your own but still want a few strong work relationships. It's not the best if you want to be left alone all the time or don't like helping others.
A good idea is to try it out: get a basic IT certification, set up a home lab, or help out with tech support at school to see if you like the daily work, not just the idea of the career.
Consider which IT roles match your social preferences and find the paths that suit introverts best.
If you like working by yourself, IT is often a good choice because many tasks require focus, like troubleshooting, scripting, and setting up systems. But if you enjoy being around others, IT can also be a good fit since teamwork is important, especially in areas like help desk, infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
Think about what kind of social setting you prefer. IT is usually better for those who like a small, reliable team rather than constant networking. Jobs like system administration, cybersecurity, and network engineering offer a nice mix of solo work and team interaction. On the other hand, help desk roles can involve more people interaction, which might be tiring if you prefer working alone.
In my opinion, IT is a good career if you enjoy solving technical problems on your own but still want a few strong work relationships. It's not the best if you want to be left alone all the time or don't like helping others.
A good idea is to try it out: get a basic IT certification, set up a home lab, or help out with tech support at school to see if you like the daily work, not just the idea of the career.
Consider which IT roles match your social preferences and find the paths that suit introverts best.
Isabel Harrison-Hall
Senior Transformation Strategist
1
Answer
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
IT in general covers a huge spectrum of different roles, all catered to different strengths you might have and is in a period of continued enhancement and change with the rapid advances in technology, so it is an exciting world to work in. Many development and engineering roles within IT may benefit from head-down, solitary work if that is your preference; but equally there is likely to be a significant amount of problem-solving and troubleshooting, both of which would benefit from inter-personal and social skills. You mention you value friendships and building friendships within a work environment can be tremendously valuable and improve your experience of working culture, so this could be a great fit for you.
Worth trying to fine-tune the "IT" somewhat - look at companies you admire and browse their job pages or Linkedin to understand the types of different roles that fall under the IT umbrella and look to see what interests you at the moment as a starting point.
Isabel recommends the following next steps:
Leonardo Alfaro
9
Answers
Alajuela, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Updated
Leonardo’s Answer
Yes, IT could actually be a very good career path for you. One of the great things about technology careers is that they offer a balance between independent work and teamwork.
In many IT roles, you spend time solving problems on your own, troubleshooting systems, analyzing issues, or working on projects independently. At the same time, you still collaborate with coworkers, customers, or teams when needed. This means you can build friendships and professional relationships without constantly being in highly social situations all day.
Another benefit is that IT has many different career paths. Some positions are more team-oriented, like project management or customer support, while others are more independent, like cybersecurity, systems administration, programming, or data analysis. Over time, you can find the environment that fits your personality best.
I would also say that enjoying technology, being curious, and liking problem-solving are important qualities for success in IT. Communication skills are valuable too, even for people who prefer working alone sometimes.
My advice would be to explore different areas of IT through online courses, certifications, videos, or small projects to see what interests you most. Technology is a field where continuous learning can open many opportunities, and there is room for many different personality types to succeed.
In many IT roles, you spend time solving problems on your own, troubleshooting systems, analyzing issues, or working on projects independently. At the same time, you still collaborate with coworkers, customers, or teams when needed. This means you can build friendships and professional relationships without constantly being in highly social situations all day.
Another benefit is that IT has many different career paths. Some positions are more team-oriented, like project management or customer support, while others are more independent, like cybersecurity, systems administration, programming, or data analysis. Over time, you can find the environment that fits your personality best.
I would also say that enjoying technology, being curious, and liking problem-solving are important qualities for success in IT. Communication skills are valuable too, even for people who prefer working alone sometimes.
My advice would be to explore different areas of IT through online courses, certifications, videos, or small projects to see what interests you most. Technology is a field where continuous learning can open many opportunities, and there is room for many different personality types to succeed.
Angela Dalzell
Global Sales
7
Answers
Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
Updated
Angela’s Answer
Yes, IT can be a very good career choice for you, and your preferences actually fit the field well.
Many areas of IT suit people who value independence and focused work. Roles such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, systems administration, and IT support often involve working independently on problems, projects, or investigations. You get time to think, experiment, and solve challenges on your own, which can be very fulfilling if you enjoy working alone.
At the same time, valuing friendship is a strength, not a weakness, in IT. Even when you work independently, you are rarely isolated. IT professionals regularly collaborate with teammates, share ideas, help each other troubleshoot issues, and build strong professional friendships. Many people in IT form close bonds through shared problem-solving and mutual support, even if day-to-day tasks are done individually.
IT is also a flexible and growing field. It offers many career paths, opportunities to learn continuously, and strong job prospects. If you enjoy learning new technologies, improving your skills, and seeing the real impact of your work, IT can be both rewarding and secure.
As a student, choosing IT means you can develop technical skills while also building confidence, independence, and meaningful connections with others.
With your interests and values, you are well suited to succeed and feel satisfied in an IT career.
Many areas of IT suit people who value independence and focused work. Roles such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, systems administration, and IT support often involve working independently on problems, projects, or investigations. You get time to think, experiment, and solve challenges on your own, which can be very fulfilling if you enjoy working alone.
At the same time, valuing friendship is a strength, not a weakness, in IT. Even when you work independently, you are rarely isolated. IT professionals regularly collaborate with teammates, share ideas, help each other troubleshoot issues, and build strong professional friendships. Many people in IT form close bonds through shared problem-solving and mutual support, even if day-to-day tasks are done individually.
IT is also a flexible and growing field. It offers many career paths, opportunities to learn continuously, and strong job prospects. If you enjoy learning new technologies, improving your skills, and seeing the real impact of your work, IT can be both rewarding and secure.
As a student, choosing IT means you can develop technical skills while also building confidence, independence, and meaningful connections with others.
With your interests and values, you are well suited to succeed and feel satisfied in an IT career.