The 5 Keys to Career Fulfillment: Which One Drives You?

A recent study in Management Science confirms what I have found to be true: women – in particular – desire work that is meaningful: "the sense of impact or purpose derived from and what is believed to be achieved as a result of a person's work."¹ This aligns with previous research on women's career development showing that professional women particularly value meaningful work that allows for authentic expression of their capabilities.²

How can women achieve career fulfillment? The research identifies 4 key pathways to meaningful work:

• Achievement & Mastery: A feeling of deep satisfaction when developing expertise and seeing results

  
  

• Connection & Community: Thriving on meaningful relationships and collaboration

• Autonomy & Innovation: The freedom to solve problems creatively and drive solutions

• Purpose & Impact: Making a positive difference and meaningful change in others' lives

As a women's career strategist and coach, I've seen these research findings validated countless times. Research by Mainiero and Sullivan demonstrates how women's career motivations evolve over time, adapting to different life stages and priorities.³ Building on this understanding in practice, I've observed a 5th element that also helps women derive meaning from their work:

• Growth & Evolution: Thriving on learning, expanding capabilities, and self-discovery through new aspects of work. For these women, energy comes from personal and professional development.

Understanding Your Primary Driver

Just as each woman has a unique journey, we also have a primary career satisfaction style. While we might resonate with several styles, usually one feels particularly authentic to us.

What is your main career satisfaction driver? Consider which statement feels most true:

• "I feel most fulfilled when I'm developing deep expertise in my field."

• "I'm happiest when I have the freedom to solve problems creatively."

• "Building meaningful professional relationships brings me the greatest satisfaction."

• "Making a positive impact through my work matters most to me."

• "I'm most energized when I'm learning and growing professionally."

The Power of Alignment

When your work aligns with your primary style, you're more likely to experience meaningful work – which can make Monday mornings feel like opportunities rather than obligations.

Understanding your career fulfillment style is the first step in aligning with your ideal work environment. Through my coaching practice, I've seen how this awareness helps women:

• Make more confident career decisions

• Communicate their value more effectively

• Achieve authentic professional success

Let’s keep growing! 🌱

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About the Author

Dr. Erica Walls is a Women's Leadership & Career Strategist who helps professional women over 40 achieve authentic success—alignment between who you are, the work you do, and how you show up. Ready to advance your career? Explore coaching programs | Book a consultation | Connect on LinkedIn

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¹ Burbano, V., Folke, O., Meier, S., & Rickne, J. (2023). The Gender Gap in Meaningful Work. Management Science.

² McKenna, E. P. (2008). What Women Want: The Science of Female Career Development. Davies-Black Publishing.

³ Mainiero, L. A., & Sullivan, S. E. (2006). The Opt-Out Revolt: Why People Are Leaving Companies to Create Kaleidoscope Careers. Davies-Black Publishing.