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Wages and the Composition of Experience

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  • Arthur H. Goldsmith
  • Jonathan R. Veum

Abstract

This paper provides evidence on the relation between alternative forms of experience and wages using data drawn from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. Prior labor market experience is segmented into mutually exclusive categories based on industry and occupation to examine how subsequent employers value skills acquired on previous jobs. We find that most forms of experience, including tenure at the current job, provide a comparable return. However, the wage return to prior experience in a different occupation and industry is significantly lower. Such “career changes” constitute over half of all prior work experience among workers in their mid‐30s.

Suggested Citation

  • Arthur H. Goldsmith & Jonathan R. Veum, 2002. "Wages and the Composition of Experience," Southern Economic Journal, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 69(2), pages 429-443, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:soecon:v:69:y:2002:i:2:p:429-443
    DOI: 10.1002/j.2325-8012.2002.tb00501.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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