The interplay of boundaryless and protean careers: Combinations and implications

The boundaryless and protean career concepts are compared in this article. It is suggested that the theories can be more Wnely delineated to produce more eVective theory and research. The boundary-less career concept is proWled according to Sullivan and Arthur’s (this issue) categories of psycholog-ical and physical boundarylessness. The protean career concept is discussed based upon the degree of self-directed and values driven career orientations a career actor demonstrates. We join these respec-tive boundaryless and protean delineations to produce eight likely career proWles based upon combi-nations of the boundaryless and protean career orientations. These eight proWles are examined in terms of challenges to career actors and those who assist them in their career development