This article examines career development in American local governments. It considers the factors affecting municipal adoption of career-development programs and compares past accomplishments with future challenges. It also uniquely compares municipal and corporate success in implementing career development. Results indicate a large "aspiration gap" between past accomplishments and future challenges and a public-sector lag behind the private sector on career initiatives. Cities that emphasize customer responsiveness, organizational performance, professionalism, and personal needs of employees are most likely to achieve success in career development.
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