University Bern
Lead researcher:
Prof. Dr. Andreas Hirschi
Duration: 01.11.2019 – 01.02.2023
Due to the increasingly dynamic labor market accelerated by digitization, individuals need to self-direct their careers over their entire working life by engaging in diverse career self-management (CSM) behaviors, such as continuous learning, exploring career options, or networking (Hirschi, 2018b). This seems especially true in the context of vocational education and training (VET) in Switzerland where individuals usually complete a first vocational training at a comparatively young age, but will experience large changes to skill requirements throughout their careers. In such cases, individuals need to continuously maintain and develop their employability, deal with career challenges and utilize opportunities over a long career. The present project aims to provide new scientific knowledge on the meaning, measurement, and promotability of CSM that should be highly useful to assist individuals in lifelong CSM. Specifically, the present project aims to address the following general research questions: (1) What different types of CSM behaviors do people use to self-direct their careers?; (2) how are different types of CSM behaviors differently related to theoretical antecedents, correlates, and outcomes?; (3) how can CSM be systematically promoted with online interventions?