Keywords
Citation
Morison, R. (2006), "Managing middlescence", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 20 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/dlo.2006.08120dad.001
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Managing middlescence
Managing middlescence
Morison R., Erickson T., Dytchwald K.Harvard Business Review, March 2006, Vol. 84 No. 3, Start page: 79, No. of pages: 8
Purpose – To examine the phenomenon of mid-career boredom and burnout known as “middlescence”. Design/methodology/approach – States that the most disaffected segment of the American workforce is the mid-career employees and managers who should be at the peak of their productivity. Gives reasons for this trend, noting that many of those aged between 35 and 54 are dealing with career bottlenecks as organizations restructure, whilst simultaneously coping with the pressures of looking after children and ageing parents in dual-career households. Adds that in addition to work/life tensions, many are facing a longer working life before they can afford to retire, are disillusioned with their career or their employer and have obsolescent skills that make it harder to progress in the information economy. Points out the challenges this poses for employers and proposes six strategies for revitalizing careers. Advises organizations to begin by removing barriers to occupational mobility and identifying those employees whose skills they need to retain. Points out that while many companies nurture the careers of their star performers, attention is also required to retain essential contributors among the “B players”. Gives examples of the benefits to be obtained through the use of fresh assignments, career changes, mentoring roles, corporate training, sabbaticals and expanding leadership development. Practical implications – Includes a checklist of ten questions to help companies understand and encourage career rejuvenation for mid-career workers. Originality/value – Warns employers of the need to take action to take action to improve the productivity and commitment of mid-career employees as workforce demographics deteriorate.ISSN: 0017-8012Reference: 35AH157
Keywords: Career development, Demographics, Employee attitudes, Employee behaviour, Management techniques, Motivation