Definition

1. Noun:
   • The practice of advancing one's career at the expense of personal integrity: "Careerism" refers to the tendency to prioritize professional advancement, promotion, or status above all else, often compromising ethical principles or personal values in the process.
   • Excessive or single-minded pursuit of professional success: It describes an attitude or behavior where career progression is the primary or sole focus, potentially leading to actions that are self-serving and disregard broader responsibilities or moral considerations.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The company's culture of careerism led to intense internal competition and a lack of collaboration.
  • He was accused of careerism for taking credit for his team's work to secure a promotion.
  • Her decision was driven more by careerism than by a genuine concern for the project's outcome.

Advanced Usage

• "The pitfalls of careerism": This phrase is often used to discuss the negative consequences of prioritizing career advancement above all else.

  • The seminar focused on the pitfalls of careerism, such as burnout and damaged relationships.

• "Blatant careerism": Used to describe overt and unapologetic pursuit of career advancement.

  • His blatant careerism was evident when he switched political parties solely for a better position.

Variants and Related Words

• Careerist (noun): A person whose main goal is professional advancement, often with negative connotations of being opportunistic or unscrupulous.
  • He was seen as a ruthless careerist who would step on anyone to get ahead.

Synonyms

• Opportunism: Taking advantage of opportunities without regard for principles or consequences.
• Self-advancement: The act of promoting one's own position or interests.
• Ambitiousness (when used pejoratively): Excessive or ruthless desire for success.

Antonyms

• Altruism: The belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others.
• Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
• Philanthropy: The desire to promote the welfare of others, often through charitable donations.

Related Phrases

• "Climbing the corporate ladder": A common idiom describing career advancement, which can be neutral or take on a negative tone similar to careerism when done ruthlessly.

  • She was so focused on climbing the corporate ladder that she neglected her team.

• "Playing the game": An idiom that can imply engaging in office politics or behaviors associated with careerism to succeed.

  • To get promoted in that environment, you have to play the game.

Noun

1. the practice of advancing your career at the expense of your personal integrity