Investigating Factor Structures Underlying the Construct of Career Anchor Inventory in the Indonesian Context

Abstract

The paper examines whether the career anchor concept is still applicable in the changing work behaviour as an impact of the coronavirus outbreak. It, therefore, aims to investigate the factor structures underlying the career anchors. An online survey questionnaire of the short-form of the career anchor inventory was distributed to the employees who worked in the government and private sectors in the western part of Indonesia. Exploratory factor analysis was employed to analyse data gathered. The results extract six new structures while only entrepreneurial creativity reflects the original anchor. Three new career anchors are clearly formed, namely the dependent benefits of a combination of economic security, service and items from managerial competence; Work dedication consists of technical competence and geographical security; and Balanced-lifestyle includes autonomy and lifestyle. Two career anchors are extracted due to items reduction. There is one item of pure challenge that forms a career anchor. The shift of the career anchor structures proves that culture is an issue that needs attention when the scale is built based on western research. Thus, cultural factors, work environment situations and life patterns of the local community affect one's career anchor. The characteristics of Indonesian society, such as a power distance culture, civil servant work orientation, managerial position concern, and so forth have an impact on finding career anchors. It highlights the need to rephrase the translated wordings and the possibility to add some items accordingly.