Trends in career management research: a bibliometric analysis

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of career management research, examining 800 documents indexed in Scopus and published between 1970-2025. The aim is: (i) to identify the most influential publications, authors, journals; (ii) to assess the impact and influence of specific works; (iii) to understand research interconnectedness; and (iv) to determine new and developing topics. Results indicate an increase in career management research in recent years. The most prolific journals are Career Development International, the Journal of Vocational Behavior, and the International Journal of Human Resource Management. Key authors include Baruch, Y., Hirschi, A., and Kong, H. The United States, United Kingdom, and China contribute most publications. Core research areas focus on (i) career management and human performance, (ii) career adaptability, competencies and success, (iii) strategic talent management and performance, (iv) career satisfaction support and wellbeing, (v) higher education and successful career transitions, and (vi) workplace diversity, change and leadership.