Career Shocks as Predictors of Perceived Employability and Career Development Opportunities: How relevant are they for Nigerian Firms?

Abstract: Whilst there is abundance of studies on perceived employability, and career development opportunities, little is known about whether career shocks serve as predictors of perceived employability and career development opportunities among private companies in Nigeria. In view of this literature gap, this study investigated career shocks as predictors of perceived employability and career development opportunities in Nigeria. Sample of 500 respondents who are employees of selected private companies were used. The independent variable is career shocks (measured by frequency and intensity of shocks) while the dependent variables are perceived employability and career development opportunities. Using a survey research design, data obtained were analyzed using descriptive (mean, standard deviation, kurtosis, skewness and Pearson correlation) and inferential (multiple regression models) statistical techniques. Findings indicated that career shocks (particularly the frequency and intensity) significant positively predict perceived employability and career development opportunities of employees in Nigeria. The study therefore concludes that career shocks are relevant for Nigerian firms in terms of the employee perceived employability and career development opportunities The study recommends that Nigerian private firms should offer programmes aimed at supporting employees in areas of on the job coaching and mentoring; this will enable them reduce the frequency and intensity of shocks associated with employees career. Also, there is the need for Nigerian private firms to develop stern career development initiatives aimed at decreasing frequency and intensity of career shocks.