Portfolio career

A portfolio career comprises a variety of roles rather than one job at a single organisation. It can be a career that combines multiple paid and/or voluntary roles. The philosopher and organisational behaviourist Charles Handy popularised the "portfolio" concept in works like his 1994 book The Empty Raincoat. Handy's recognition of the portfolio career-path came about when he realised that individuals would be required to develop portable skillsets to meet the needs of a fast-moving future workplace. His prediction foresaw what is now known as the gig economy.

In 2006 journalist Penelope Trunk wrote on her blog that the rise of portfolio careers came "as members of Generation X entered the workforce. Two-thirds of them were looking for an alternative to full-time employment as a more efficient path to self-discovery and finding the right career."

Portfolio careers are often found in the creative industries where freelancing is the norm. Economic conditions mean many are now actively choosing to pursue portfolio careers to make the most of their earning potential.

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