The 10 Attributes of Career Fulfillment: Why Women Face a Gap

Recent research by Perceptyx, a leader in employee listening and workplace transformation, has uncovered the ten attributes essential for career fulfillment. The study highlights that achieving fulfillment in a career involves more than excelling in one area—it requires balance across multiple dimensions. Alarmingly, women are less likely than men to possess these attributes, pointing to gender disparities in the workplace.

The 10 Essential Attributes for Career Fulfillment

Based on a scientific study surveying 8,423 workers in the U.S. and Europe, the ten attributes of a fulfilling career include:

1. Career Pride
2. Identity
3. Career-Life Integration
4. Stability (e.g., financial success)
5. Purpose (making a difference)
6. Values Alignment
7. Autonomy
8. Connectedness
9. Growth & Development
10. Organisational Satisfaction

Workers with at least eight attributes are:

• 2.6x more likely to be satisfied with their life.
• 3x more likely to choose the same career again.

Key Findings

• Gender Differences:
  • 31% of men have at least eight attributes, compared to 28% of women.
  • Men score higher on attributes like Stability and Identity.
• Generational Differences:
  • Only 20% of Gen Z workers have eight attributes, compared to 35% of Baby Boomers.
  • Younger workers prioritize Career-Life Integration to reduce stress, while older generations value Organisational Satisfaction and Values Alignment.

Why Career Fulfillment Matters

Career fulfillment has significant benefits for both employees and employers:

• For Employees:
  • Improved mental and physical health.
  • Reduced stress levels.
  • Enhanced life satisfaction.
• For Employers:
  • Increased productivity and innovation.
  • Greater employee loyalty.

Workers with eight or more attributes are:

• 1.6x more likely to report increased productivity.
• 2.8x more likely to experience improved physical health.
• 2.5x more likely to have better mental health.

Achieving career fulfillment isn’t just about individual success; it’s about alignment across personal, professional, and organizational dimensions. Bridging the gender and generational gaps in career attributes can transform workplace dynamics, benefiting both employees and employers alike.