The Long-Term Negative Impacts of Managerial Career Interruptions

Abstract

As downsizing continues to be part of corporate life, this study seeks to determine the long-term impact of career interruptions on income and career satisfaction. Longitudinal data were collected from men and women MBAs who were surveyed three times over a 13-year period. Traditionally, the model of a successful managerial career involved a steady climb up a corporate ladder, and interruptions resulted in penalties. As employment gaps have become fairly commonfor managers, the negative career stigma may be diminishing. However, the findings from the study suggest that the penalties persist. MBAswith career interruptions earned less than those continuously employed, even 25 years after the interruption. Career interruptions were detrimental to career satisfaction only for men. The findings have implications for managers and organizations.