Exploring the perceived career success of staff in a South African science and engineering company.
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Authors
Du Toit, D.
Coetzee, Melinde
Issue Date
2012
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Objective Career Success , Subjective Career Success , Career Development , Retention
Alternative Title
Abstract
This study explored the core themes underlying individuals’ perceptions of their career success with the view to
inform retention practices. The participants were a convenience sample of 207 employees (63% Blacks; 60%
males) within a South African science and engineering company. Data were gathered by using a quantitative
survey approach and posing an open-ended question to the participants regarding their perceived career
success. The data were thematically analysed by using the Atlas.ti version 6 computer-aided qualitative data
analysis software. Findings suggest that self-perceptions of career success are multifaceted, including learning
and development; skills, experience and competence; career transitions and advancement; job content; contributing
to a larger community; goal achievement; helping others; rewards and recognition; and work–life
balance. Individuals’ inner definitions of career success could inform retention strategies in the science and
engineering field focused on their career development, career wellbeing and satisfaction.
Description
Citation
35 Du Toit, D. & Coetzee, M. (2012). Exploring the perceived career success of staff in a South African science and engineering company. Journal of Psychology in Africa, 22(1), 96-105.
Publisher
Working Group for African Psychology
License
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
1433-0237