Career development interventions in organizations

Abstract

This article reviews the last 20 years of research and practice of career development interventions used within organizations. The review begins by describing the historical development of the field of organizational career development and the reasons why organizations have increasingly used career development programs to address human resource problems and challenges. Discussion then focuses on describing the types of interventions used by some companies over the last two decades. Illustrations of interventions such as self-assessment tools, individual counseling, information services, assessment programs, and developmental programs are included. Descriptions of programs which have been designed to meet the unique needs of individuals at various career phases (e.g., early, middle, and late career) and other special issues (e.g., high-potential employees, terminated employees, supervisors, women and minority employees, employed spouses and parents) are also provided. The article concludes by reviewing research on the effectiveness of career development programs and offering suggestions for future research and practice.