A generation ago, people tended to settle into one career for life, or at least for a couple of decades. But things change, and today’s employees tend to move around. Going after new opportunities, more flexible positions, higher pay, or better work-life balance is expected, and it will not generally hurt your career.
Like anything else, though, career moves should be made in moderation. Bouncing from one job to the next too frequently could earn the label of “job hopper,” or someone who is flaky and not entirely trustworthy. In general, you should try not to change jobs more than 4 times in a decade.
How Not to Be a Job Hopper
In today’s work world, it can be extremely difficult and unrewarding to remain in the same position for too long. But before you change companies altogether, take a look around. Can you put in for an internal promotion or transfer? Maybe a different department would be a better fit. Consider your options where you are before making a leap.
It’s never a bad thing to take a promotion. If you’re worried about being labeled a job hopper, focus on advancing your career rather than simply leaving for a similar position at a different company. Apply for new jobs that are in a similar field but offer more responsibility or a better job title.
How to Address Job Hopping in Your Interview
If you have job hopped in the past, be prepared to address your work history head-on. Before your interview, look for ways to tie together your job changes in a way that shows solid progression in your career. If you were laid off at any point, let the interviewer know. Your reliability is not likely to be judged negatively if you left a position for reasons outside your control.
Also, focus on the reasons that you specifically want to work for the company with which you are interviewing. If you can convince the interviewer that you are genuinely excited about the new position and feel that you bring real value to it, your job-hopping history is more likely to be forgiven.
Ready for Your Next Move?
If you’re not sure where to go with your career, Custom Staffing can help. Take a look at our available positions, and then give us a call today to learn more.
