Conceptualization and exploration of composite career anchors: An analysis of information systems personnel

✍ Scribed by Hindupur V. Ramakrishna; Denise Potosky

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 2003
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 115 KB
• Volume: 14
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 1044-8004
• DOI: 10.1002/hrdq.1060

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

Some researchers have emphasized the importance of identifying individuals' dominant career anchors and
perhaps matching these anchors with HR planning initiatives. However, there has been little empirical research
addressing the existence and impact of clusters of dominant career anchors. This study addresses this gap in the
literature and examines the career anchors of 163 information systems (IS) professionals. Consistent
with
the findings of earlier studies, nine career anchors (managerial competence, identity, variety, service,
geographic security, autonomy, organizational stability, technical competence, and creativity) were evident
in
this sample. Results provide evidence of multiple dominant anchors for many individuals, and that individuals
with
multiple dominant anchors do not report significantly different career‐related outcomes than those with
single dominant anchors. The results suggest that clusters of career anchors, rather than a single dominant
anchor,
should be considered in HR planning efforts for IS personnel, and potentially for personnel in other career
fields.