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.

Read More

What's Your Learning Style?

In our jobs, we are constantly bombarded with all types of information in the form of reports, presentations, emails, memos, verbal exchanges, and more. In order to absorb all of this information in a quick and comprehensive way, and be more productive and efficient, you must know your learning style.

Start by identifying your primary mode of learning. Are you a visual, auditory, or tactile learner?

• Visual learners process information first by what they see. These learners like to watch demonstrations, and then usually try it out for themselves.
• Auditory learners prefer to listen first and have information explained to them in a step-by-step process.
• Tactile learners have to try it out themselves, and learn best by doing.

There are many advantages to knowing your learning style. Being aware of your learning style will allow you to comprehend information faster, and will give you more opportunities to participate as you understand material more easily. You will have better overall communication when you know how you best receive information. Most schools and businesses now use a number of different media to communicate information, including video, PowerPoint, and written and verbal presentations. Be proactive. Actively seek out information presented in the style that works best for you.

Keep in mind that it's a good idea to be aware of the learning styles of the people around you. What style is your boss? How do your team members learn? Try to present information in a way that helps more people understand your message. This can mean including different modes of communication when you make a report or presentation. At the very least, provide a written copy of your report. If possible, include a PowerPoint and verbal explanation.

Our new course on Career Success Strategies has additional helpful tips on various career-related topics, such as business ethics, conflict in the workplace, how to read reports and compare data, how to find your career strengths, additional insight into learning styles, and much more. Make sure to check out the first 3 FREE previews of this essential, in-depth course!
In addition, be sure to watch the free previews of our courses on PowerPoint and Business Writing for helpful tips on preparing presentations and reports.

Read More