Squiggly Careers and the Path to Retain Top Talent

In the current climate, Irish employers are facing mounting challenges in attracting and retaining talent. With career development high on candidates’ wish lists, and non-linear careers paths becoming more prevalent, companies must offer more than a competitive salary to stand out.

“In today’s tight labour market, HR and business leaders are increasingly recognising the importance of providing opportunities for career development as a strategy to attract and retain top-tier talent,” says Vicky O’Neill, HR Strategy Specialist at Ibec.

A 2023 MIT study found that 67% of respondents wanted career advancement, but nearly half (49%) lacked proper guidance. Employers that offer structured development pathways can boost employee engagement, loyalty, and performance - key advantages in a competitive hiring landscape.

“This reflects a growing trend where job seekers not only prioritise salary but also the potential for personal and professional growth when evaluating employment opportunities. This data underscores the importance for employers to create structured pathways that nurture talent. Companies willing to invest in their employees’ growth can differentiate themselves from competitors, enhancing their attractiveness in a market where talent is both scarce and discerning.”

However, traditional linear career paths are giving way to more flexible “squiggly careers,” driven by individual values and interests.

“The changing shape of work is leading to what has been termed ‘squiggly careers’, driven by personal passions and interests. People in squiggly careers often seek roles that align with their values and bring them satisfaction, rather than following a linear path.”

The term originally coined by Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis of career development company Amazing If, refers to a non-linear trajectory where individuals eschew the traditional ladder in favour of a more circuitous pathway based on evolving interests, skills and circumstances. This broader experience and adaptability can create a mutually beneficial dynamic and highly networked workforce.

Employers must adapt to this changing reality and ensure that career pathways and training programmes are aligned with organisational goals and employee aspirations. This can include a mix of mentorship programmes, one-to-one coaching, workshops and formal training courses.

Wellbeing also plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent. “By prioritising career development and wellbeing initiatives, organisations can not only meet the demands of the modern workforce but also cultivate a loyal and driven employee base ready to meet future challenges,” says O’Neill. “As the labour market continues to evolve, those who adapt and invest in employee and career development will outperform those who don’t.”

Ibec offers a range of services to formally assist companies of all sizes to establish or further develop their wellbeing strategies and frameworks. With more than a decade of experience, Ibec possesses in-depth knowledge of the practical realities of delivering successful workplace wellbeing programmes.

Ibec’s Talent Support and Development pillar within its KeepWell framework supports organisations in adapting to this reality. It encourages employers to invest in continuous learning, internal mobility, and meaningful career conversations — helping people navigate their own ‘squiggly’ career journeys. By aligning business needs with individual aspirations, organisations can attract, retain, and develop talent in a way that supports long-term wellbeing and business success.

The KeepWell Mark provides independent recognition of an organisation’s commitment to workplace wellbeing, grounded in clear standards and a holistic approach to strategy. It helps build employee trust, enhance employer brand, and embed wellbeing into the core of organisational culture.

To find out more about Ibec’s suite of training programmes visit www.ibecacademy.ie, and www.ibecconsulting.ie for all your workplace wellbeing consultancy needs.

For more information on The KeepWell Mark visit www.thekeepwellmark.ie