“Butterflying” a new career pattern for Australia? Empirical evidence

Abstract

Purpose – This paper seeks to examine the career patterns and labour mobility of managers in the convention and exhibition industry in Australia, an example of a new emerging industry within the service sector.Design/methodology/approach – Through the use of the technique of life and work history analysis, career information was gathered from a sample of individuals employed within the various sectors of this industry in Australia. The information was then analysed using a range of descriptive and evaluative statistical tests.Findings – Results indicated the emergence of a new career pattern – “butterfly” progress. This could be identified as an extension and development of the boundaryless career model, where the individual is clearly in charge of his/her career but where he/she “flutters” between sectors in order to build up human capital and progress his/her career.Research limitations/implications – Though the research was undertaken in a specific industry sector the results indicate that the concept ...