Different Paths to Career Advancement: Business vs. Academia

Abstract

To the casual observer careers in business and academia seem vastly different, yet there are many similarities, as there are in most hierarchies that are based on merit and achievements. The talent requirements for success may be somewhat different in each arena, but there are many common traits that outweigh the differences. In both, the successful career-oriented individual must possess intelligence, courage, perseverance, originality, loyalty to the company or university, and, at least until achieving tenure in a university or a high position in a company, must avoid clashes with peers and superiors. Even after having achieved tenure or a high position, clashes are counterproductive.