Antecedents and consequences of change in career satisfaction over time: a latent growth mixture model approach

Abstract

Purpose Career satisfaction is a key component of subjective career success, yet it may fluctuate across career paths. Drawing on conservation of resources theory, this study aims to examine the antecedents and outcomes of individual change profiles in career satisfaction over time. Design/methodology/approach Using a longitudinal growth mixture model with a sample of 490 employees from the UK, we identified two distinct patterns of career satisfaction: rising and declining. Findings The results showed that remaining opportunities increased the likelihood of belonging to the rising career satisfaction profile relative to the declining career satisfaction profile. Furthermore, the rising career satisfaction profile was associated with decreased levels of burnout (i.e. emotional exhaustion and disengagement). Originality/value Together, our study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the dynamic nature of subjective career success and underscores the value of person-centered approaches for designing targeted interventions supporting employee well-being.