The Career Plateau: What Is It and What Can We Do About It?

This article, which appeared in the GAO Review, Vol. 21, Issue 3, Summer 1986, discusses: (1) the causes and effects of career plateau and ways to avoid its unnecessary or premature occurrence; and (2) the attributes of individuals who are able to negotiate the career plateau successfully, continue to grow, and find personal satisfaction. GAO found that career plateau is caused by: (1) the scarcity of job openings and, therefore, fewer promotions; and (2) an employee's lack of sufficient skills or the desire to obtain a higher-level position. GAO also found that: (1) career plateau results in employees feeling frustrated or disappointed; (2) since self-renewing people are highly motivated, view themselves objectively, and have a deep conviction about what they are doing, they are better able to control their job growth; and (3) employees should continue to grow by educating themselves.