What Shapes Careers

MCKINSEY QUARTLERY—Executives around the world say the events that most profoundly affected their careers originated largely at work, not from family or personal issues, according to a McKinsey Quarterly survey.

Although 40 percent of respondents say they have had difficulty balancing work and home life, they also say this challenge doesn’t drive most career decisions.

The survey uncovered few differences between the experiences of men and women. However, women are more likely to have had a mentor or role model and to have experienced discrimination.

Respondents are satisfied with the outcome of career-shaping moments, saying that they led to more interesting and important jobs and to higher compensation. Read article.