When people have worked in a position for a very long time they tend to get stuck in just that knowledge base?

Question

I'm a recent grad in computer science (B.S). I just recently started a job at an Hospital within the IT department. I noticed a lot of people that work here have worked a very long time (10 15 years in one position). I notice their knowledge is very limited to only what is here (no where else). It's like if you give them a task they are not used to they do poor. Their knowledge base as you call it becomes extreamly narrow. I also can't understand why someone would want to work someplace for 10 to 20 years. I would want to move around and advance myself. I'm young though (24). Is this normal????

Answer 1

Seeing the world through the eyes of a 24-year old also has limitations and narrowness of vision... I'm not really sure when the peripheral vision of seeing more really happens in life... maybe sixty, seventy, or eighty perhaps (maybe those in the Orient appreciate their elderly partly for that reason). Regardless, what you notice at work may be very different than what might be noticed in their homes or other environments. You may have some avid readers, history buffs, or hobbyists in your midst. Giving people tasks without first realizing their abilities isn't necessarily a bad idea... as long as you will come to expect poor results from time to time. To ensure more success, discuss the project or task beforehand to create an understanding of what is expected... you'll get better results. As for staying "10 or 20" years in the same workplace.... for some, it creates security. For you at this stage in your life, I would agree you'll probably want some more challenges ahead; however, when you're in your forties, you'll probably stay at your company longer. You'll realize as you get older that you just aren't quite the same "hot commodity" as when you are younger. Age discrimination? You bet... it's alive and well in America!