This study examines women’s managerial experiences in leadership roles and reflects on their career needs. Women’s career needs are understood by applying the Kaleidoscope Career Model (KCM), which is yet to be widely explored in public sector settings. The KCM recognizes the interplay of multiple experiences that shape the career development of women in the workforce. Using 21 in-depth interviews with women municipal government leaders in the United States, we find that while all three parameters of the KCM model are relevant for women public managers, the need for balance is overwhelmingly evident for women across all generations. Further, we demonstrate how the relationality of women public managers, and the interplay of personal and professional needs drive their career goals. The findings from this study are relevant to human resource development policies and practices that take generational differences into account.
Careers of Women Public Managers: Career Needs of Women Public Managers across Generations
This study examines women’s managerial experiences in leadership roles and reflects on their career needs. Women’s career needs are understood by applying the Kaleidoscope Career Model (KCM), which is yet to be widely explored in public sector settings. The KCM recognizes the interplay of multiple experiences that shape the career development of women in the workforce. Using 21 in-depth interviews with women municipal government leaders in the United States, we find that while all three parameters of the KCM model are relevant for women public managers, the need for balance is overwhelmingly evident for women across all generations. Further, we demonstrate how the relationality of women public managers, and the interplay of personal and professional needs drive their career goals. The findings from this study are relevant to human resource development policies and practices that take generational differences into account.
