Career Anchor Definition

A career anchor refers to the combination of one’s self-perceived talents, values, motives, and key competencies that form the foundation for career decision making and development.

Talents

Talents encompass the natural abilities and skills that individuals possess. They may include technical expertise, creative skills, problem-solving abilities, or interpersonal skills.

Values

Values represent the beliefs, principles, and ideals that individuals hold dear. They guide one’s behavior and provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their career choices.

Motives

Motives are the drivers behind an individual’s actions and decisions in their career. They can include factors such as achievement, affiliation, autonomy, power, security, or intellectual stimulation.

Key Competencies

Key competencies refer to the specific knowledge, skills, and expertise that individuals have developed throughout their education and professional experience. These competencies enable individuals to perform tasks effectively in their chosen field.

The career anchor concept helps individuals understand their core preferences and strengths, providing a solid foundation for making career-related decisions and planning their professional development effectively.