ABSTRACT
The lack of a clear career structure is a well-recognised cause of stress in any workforce, not just medicine. The key to career planning is information gathering from people, books and general observation. Eight career anchor categories have been identified by Schein and used to increase people’s insights about their strengths and motivation in career development: technical or functional competence; general managerial competence; autonomy or independence; security or stability; entrepreneurial creativity; service or dedication to a cause; pure challenge; lifestyle. Careers guidance is more personal and directive, and provides advice within the context of the opportunities that are available. Coaching involves training, supporting, instructing and motivating others to improve their performance by a working partnership between client and coach to achieve agreed goals. A common option is to combine general practice with management in primary care groups, with trusts, health authorities, Medical Audit Advisory Groups.
