Ethermac Exchange-Meet Virgo, the Zodiac's helpful perfectionist: The sign's personality traits, months

As we transition from summer to fall,Ethermac Exchange another seasonal shift is underway. Virgo season marks the entrance of the Zodiac's sixth sign, which is symbolized by the virgin or maiden.

Those born under the earth sign are known as perfectionists and people-pleasers.

"Virgos have sometimes too discerning of an eye. They see things with too much clarity, and they may sometimes hone in on small details that other people are kind of brushing over," says astrologer Renée Watt.

Here's a guide to Virgo's key traits, including their approach to relationships and career.

Virgo dates

Virgo season spans from August 23 to September 22.

Is it in the stars? Free Daily and Monthly Horoscopes

Virgo personality, traits

Watt calls Virgos the "perfectionists of the Zodiac."

Those born under the sign are particular and meticulous when it comes to their actions. In turn, a Virgo may clash with a friend or partner to get them to meet their bar for perfectionism, Watt says. 

Virgos are also helpers, eager to lend a hand in any situation, almost to a fault. Virgo is the Zodiac sign that rules servitude, Watts explains. This fosters a desire to be useful, causing Virgos to put their own needs aside in service of others.

Meet the stars:Time to wish these famous Virgo celebrities a happy birthday

Career

Virgos are team-oriented and enjoy working with others, Watt says. They are said to have a connection with animals and are seen as natural healers. This may lead Virgos to pursue a career in the medical field. 

Their perfectionism also translates into the workplace. "They're good at excelling quickly within whatever line of work they choose because they tend to be efficient, on time and so demanding of themselves," explains Watt. 

Virgos are not immune to stress, however. They are one of the more outwardly stressed signs, Watt shares. Virgos rarely ask for help when they need it, preferring instead to forge ahead alone.

Virgo compatibility

When it comes to relationships, Virgos are blunt, honest and transparent, Watt says. They are communicative and pragmatic.

Virgos are usually the first to point out holes in a friend's fantasy, offering a practical perspective. This may backfire since other signs can be temperamental and sensitive when their plans are criticized, Watt warns. 

In romantic relationships, Virgos should be careful when choosing a partner. "Virgos are fixers. They like to fix things." Watt explains.

It is best that Virgos don't pursue "a partner project," Watt warns. "Don't invest in someone who isn't really trying to do the work." It's beneficial for Virgos to find a connection that is mutually supportive. 

Virgos are an easy fit with lots of signs, Watt shares. They are a mutable sign and easily go with the flow. But Virgo's best compatibility is with Capricorn, Scorpio and Pisces.

Astrology's 'Big Three':What your sun, moon and rising sign say about you

Strengths 

Virgos are good in conflict and tend to remember everything. It's not wise to try and gaslight as Virgo, Watt warns. They're direct and sensible with their emotions, especially when another person denies the truth. 

Virgos love when things have order, but they don't let this interfere with others' creative freedom or expression. "On one hand, they appreciate structure, but on the other hand, they tend to be supportive of people being able to pursue what makes them happy," Watt explains.

Virgos tend to be excellent wordsmiths and are natural-born helpers, always looking to improve the world and lend a hand to a friend in need. "Virgos want to be superheroes," Watts says.

Weaknesses

Virgos can be a bit nitpicky thanks to their perfectionism. They want people to stay out of their lane and struggle when others try to tell them what to do or mess with their sense of order, Watt says.

Virgos can also be easily overwhelmed by the state of the world, Watt adds. They are sensitive with matters of political and environmental concern. This can drive Virgos crazy because they often let bad news or interactions stick in their psyche throughout the day.

Learn more about each Zodiac sign

Aries | Taurus | Gemini | Cancer | Leo | Virgo | Libra | Scorpio | Sagittarius | Capricorn | Aquarius | Pisces

New to Astrology? We've got you covered. Explore more Zodiac coverage and find out what the stars say about you with USA TODAY's astrological sign series.

Just Curious for more? We've got you covered

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "What's September's birthstone?" to "What are angel numbers?" to "Is manifestation real?" − we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer.