Gone are the days when one would learn a single profession and spend a lifetime with the same employer. With the rise of megatrends like the gig economy, the workforce often faces temporary contracts or single projects. Companies worldwide are hiring and firing at unprecedented rates, making adaptability crucial.

Understanding Portfolio Careers (PFC)

What is a portfolio career (PFC)? Unlike traditional linear careers, a PFC involves working with multiple employers or clients, engaging in various activities or projects. These roles may center around a core area across different contexts (e.g., a marketing manager who also teaches marketing) or span diverse skills (e.g., an accountant who teaches yoga).

Literature distinguishes between constant portfolio careers (persistent hybrid entrepreneurs) and transitional ones (transitory hybrid entrepreneurs). While offering variety and fresh insights, these trends also pose challenges like financial instability and the need for ongoing job searches.

Key Considerations for Building a Sustainable Portfolio Career:

• What does it take to build a sustainable portfolio career?
• What types of portfolio careers are possible?
• What are the implications you need to consider for long-term success?
• Is a portfolio career suitable for your personality type?

Join Our Research on Portfolio Careers

We are continuously exploring the evolving world of portfolio careers—with a focus on understanding the needs of both individuals and organizations navigating this dynamic career model.

In 2024, we conducted our first survey as part of a thesis for the Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Positive Psychology at the University of Zurich, supported by the Competence Centre for Diversity & Inclusion (CCDI) at the University of St. Gallen.

Curious about the results? We’re happy to share our insights—just reach out, and we’ll gladly present the findings.

Planning to write a bachelor’s or master’s thesis on portfolio careers?
We welcome collaboration and are happy to support students and researchers who want to explore this exciting field.

Let’s shape the future of work—together.