Job Hopping, A Strategic Career Move?

Job hopping.  It may seem like something you do when you are in your twenties.  I mean, aren’t we expected to settle into a career by our thirties?  Think about our future, put down roots in a company that has all we need for security, such as: decent pay, health benefits, a retirement plan, and a solid foundation for future growth within our field. 

Job hopping was once a sign of instability.  However, today it just may make you more marketable.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in the U.S. the average number of years that workers have been with their current employer is 4.6.  Younger workers aged 20-34 had a tenure average of only 2.3 years.  The reasons people leave their jobs vary, but job hopping does not have to be seen as a negative.

Job hopping gives you a diverse background.  When you work in different jobs you gain experience and knowledge in each.  You are exposed to different people and ways of doing things.  It also allows you to build a network of friends and colleagues that can be beneficial in your next position.

Another added benefit of job hopping is that it allows you the opportunity to find a job that fits you just right.  When you experience different jobs, you learn what you enjoy.  When you find one that is a good fit, you have the choice to make it your career.  Finding something you love to do is a great reason for job hopping.

There are potential downsides, such as: potential employers may be hesitant to hire you because you lack staying power.  Employers do not want to have to keep replacing employees. This means you have to prove yourself time and time again as you move from job to job.

In an article by CPGJobs, Is Job Hopping a Good Career Strategy? job hopping can be used as a means to obtain a promotion, increase your salary and expand your skillset.

The key to job hopping is to do it correctly.  Do not just randomly move from job to job; have a plan and try not to burn any bridges.

Although the idea of having a stable career that will last all your adult years is sound advice, sometimes job hopping can be an asset if used correctly.