Career Plateau

Meaning & Definition

Career Plateau describes the situation when an individual’s job growth has slowed or stopped entirely while providing little to no opportunity for additional promotions or responsibilities, and limited opportunities for skill enhancement. Career Plateau can occur from several sources, including organisational structure, limitations regarding the position of a person within the organisation, or personal decisions regarding the development of an individual’s career. 

Important aspects of Career Plateau

• Displays areas where HR may identify employees who may be at risk of attrition or disengagement.
• Facilitates lateral growth and upskilling opportunities.
• Assists with career planning and succession improvement strategies.
• Enhances employee engagement and promotes long-term retention of employees.
• Identifies the essential and ongoing need for continuing education and enrichment of roles.

Compliance & Policy Considerations

• Indian Labour law does not specifically govern career plateau issues.
• Career plateau is not a legal term, but an internal development concept of a company to develop talent management systems internally.
• Employers are encouraged to adopt appropriate systems of fair appraisal and promotion.
• The principle of equal opportunity should guide employers’ decisions related to career advancement.
• By developing and implementing policies designed to support development and learning, employers can assist with career plateau issues.