Careers

A career is the sequence of work-related roles and experiences pursued over a working life. It encompasses the jobs, occupations, and professions a person holds, as well as the education and training that prepare them for work. A career can span multiple industries and may include transitions between fields. It is influenced by personal interests, opportunities, and the labor market.

Key elements include qualifications such as degrees and certificates, skills (technical, analytical, interpersonal), experience from paid work, internships, or volunteering, and ongoing professional development through training, mentoring, and networking. People may follow a linear career path within a single field or a portfolio or lattice path across multiple roles or industries. Career planning involves self-assessment, market research, goal setting, and adaptation.

Career development typically proceeds through stages such as exploration, establishment, advancement, and maintenance, with possible transitions or changes in direction. Tools used include resumes or CVs, cover letters, job-search strategies, interviews, and career counseling or coaching.

The labor market shapes careers through demand for skills, technological change, economic cycles, and globalization. Trends include automation, remote or flexible work, gig or contract work, and a focus on lifelong learning. Equity and access issues affect who can pursue certain careers and how they advance.

Outcomes of a career include earnings, job satisfaction, stability, and opportunities for growth. Well-designed career systems help individuals align personal goals with organizational needs and broader economic trends.