If you want to get depressed, read up on what workers think about the 2008 job outlook. With signs pointing to a slower economy, more workers than last year have little hope for a better job and fewer expect to earn more this year.

It can get even gloomier if you are an introvert--energized by thoughts and more comfortable with solitary activities. With predictions about job growth in customer service, health care or another service industry and more demand for interpersonal contact, team work and communication, you may wonder: Where do I fit? But have no fear, there is more than enough for you to do in this new economy.

There are plenty of introvert-friendly opportunities, says Laurence Shatkin, co-author of 200 Best Jobs for Introverts. Shatkin and The Editors at JIST, the publisher, name the fastest growing jobs for introverts that include network systems and data communications analysts, computer software engineers, medical scientists, personal finance advisors, technical writers and real estate appraisers and assessors.

One of the lesser known careers for introverts is hydrologist. These professionals "study the quantity, distribution, circulation and physical properties of bodies of water," says the U.S. Department of Labor. They work in consulting firms--large multidisciplinary engineering companies and small niche firms, "helping businesses and government agencies comply with environmental policy, particularly with regard to ground-water decontamination and flood control."

It's looking good for environmental scientists and hydrologists with employment expected to increase by 25 percent through 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, say the Department.

This is "spurred largely by the increasing demands placed on the environment and water resources by population growth" with further demand "from the need to comply with complex environmental laws and regulations" and as the population increases and moves to more environmentally sensitive locations.

Another area expected to grow--19 percent through 2016--and on the lists of fastest growing jobs for introverts, is that of animal trainer. These people "train animals for riding, security, performance, obedience or assisting people with disabilities," says the Department of Labor. The growth is attributed in part to the increase in pet owners, including a large number of baby boomers whose disposable income is expected to increase as they age and who will purchase more luxury animal services.

Employment for technical writers is expected to grow 23.2 percent through 2014, says Shatkin. Hiring of salaried writers and editors should go up as demand for web-based publications grows and needs increase with interactive media, technical publications, businesses with newsletters and Web sites, online publications and services, professional, scientific and technical services firms.

Even if you are more oriented to solitary activities, you are not completely off the hook when it comes to team work, communication and interpersonal abilities. These are still extremely important skills in these professions that tend to be more "introvert-friendly." So whether your focus is on animals, data or things or more with relationships and the delivery of a personal service, you're dealing with people and you will be communicating regularly.

And if you aren't an introvert, but more extroverted--energized by people and things outside of you--if you look at why these jobs are growing, it can help you see what types of companies and industries to target for the kind of work you do. Whatever your tendency, stop focusing on what you're afraid you'll get less of in 2008. If you want to be invigorated this year open yourself up to what's changing and ask: What can I do to be a part of it?

© by Andrea Kay