What's next? Career narratives of women university graduates in times of precarity

Abstract

Building on emerging research on women's careers and precarious employment, we conducted a longitudinal qualitative study of 16 young, educated women over two years in the Greek post-crisis economy. Using the career construction theory, we trace their career trajectories and the subjective meanings attached to their career transitions. We find evidence of five career narratives, reflecting the trajectories followed and meanings attributed in pursuit of stable employment. In each narrative we observe situational constraints and coping responses as the women respond to threats to their professional identities. Each trajectory is more cyclical than linear, comprised of activities reflecting the goals pursued at the time. We observe the dysfunctional effects of persistent old career identities along with resilient adjustment and pursuit of new identities. Results advance our understanding of career decisions in the context of economic crisis. They also underscore the need to contextualize the study of career narratives over time as they change in accordance with shifting personal goals and opportunities.

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