Pathways to Sustainable Careers: Exploring Motivational Profiles Through Latent Class Analysis

Emel Doğan (), Yavuz Selim Balcıoğlu and Oya Erdil
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Emel Doğan: Business Administration, Faculty of Business Administration, Gebze Technical University, 41400 Gebze, Türkiye
Yavuz Selim Balcıoğlu: Department of Management Information Systems, Faculty of Business Administration, Dogus University, 34775 Dudullu OSB Umraniye, Türkiye
Oya Erdil: Business Administration, Faculty of Business Administration, Gebze Technical University, 41400 Gebze, Türkiye

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 3, 1-27

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify motivational profiles in sustainable career trajectories via emerging latent class methods using a multilevel schema between engagement in sustainable career practices, developing and utilizing job competency—a key marker for human capital development—and leader–member interaction. Using latent class analysis (LCA), we further identify different types of motivational profiles that reflect the principle and adaptable nature with which individuals can relate their sustainability values to career decisions. Results indicate large practical differences within latent classes, evidencing higher career adaptability and sustainability principles congruence in some groups. These differences highlight that intrinsic motivation, adaptability, and elements connected to the sector drive sustainable career engagement that should ensure enduring satisfaction with commitment to a chosen profession. In explaining why sustainability drives career advancement, this study takes a theoretical standpoint from three overarching theories: Career Construction Theory, Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), and Sustainable Career Theory. The practical recommendations are that companies must offer programs at the sector level to increase career adaptability (readiness) and help employees build sustainable careers. This study calls attention to the importance of producing participative content that is demanded by organizations seeking greater resilience, well-being in work contexts, and their long-lasting survival as institutions.

Keywords: sustainable career pathways; motivational profiles; latent class analysis (LCA); career agility; sustainable career theory (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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