Conceptualization and Exploration of Composite Career Anchors: An Analysis of Information Systems Personnel.

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.

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