Purpose-Past research about workplace promotion has focussed on factors that shape employees' perceptions for promotion. Yet, we still know little about how such undesirable factors as the fear of success (henceforth FoS) syndrome and perceived workplace discrimination affect perceived promotion and even less so how this relationship is mediated by self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation. The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework integrating these factors. Design/methodology/approach-A structural equation modelling procedure was employed to empirically test the model using data collected from employees in wide-ranging Israeli industries (n ¼ 553). Findings-The path model indicates that initially, FoS and perceived discrimination negatively affect perceived chances of promotion. When however, self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation mediate this relationship, subjects perceive their promotion chances positively. Practical implications-Self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation may be employed to attenuate the potentially adverse effects of FoS and discrimination effects. Originality/value-FoS and perceived workplace discrimination are common phenomena, yet the authors show that they may be mitigated by heightened self-efficacy and amplified intrinsic motivation that help in sustaining perceived workplace promotion.

The constructivist framework of career development provides the theoretical foundation for narrative approaches to career counselling practices. Within the constructivist paradigm, a crucial role is played by the thematic stories created by individuals to learn, make meaning of their experiences, life, and career, as well as to construct their own identity. This article describes a ‘thought experiment’, which explores the perception of leadership as the creation of one’s own story. This idea implies the consideration of issues such as concept, storyline, purpose, receivers, credibility, fidelity, preparation for performance, and leadership ending. Deliberations on these issues take the form of questions for reflection, which are posed for leaders generally for their individual reflection as well as for those involved in career counselling or coaching practice. The proposed narrative conceptualization offers insight and strategies for developing one’s own leadership identity.