Many believe that job-hopping could become the “new normal”. While the numbers indicate a recent trend toward employers being open to hiring candidates who change jobs frequently, there are still many hiring managers who will think twice before hiring someone they see as a job hopper. Job seekers need to think about their motivations for switching jobs as well as how their changing jobs will be perceived by future employers. So if you’ve already had a couple of jobs in the past few years, you should carefully consider the pros along with the cons of changing jobs once again.

Pros

Increased Salary

One of the main reasons people look for a new job is to increase their salary more than the usual 2-3% they could expect every year if they stayed with their current organization. You very well might increase your salary with a new job, but be sure to consider the whole benefits package along with evaluating what your quality of life will be in your new role. Will the work-life balance be worth the money?

Career Advancement

Sometimes staying with the same organization will not result in a promotion and that may not be your fault. There are a finite number of jobs in every organization. You may find that the opportunity for advancement at your current employer is limited because the people above you are not going anywhere. Or your job may turn into something that you had not signed on for initially. A new job can often lead to further skill development. It may be better for you to look elsewhere for a job where you can learn more, increase your skill set, and have a more positive experience than to stay put and get stagnant.

A New Environment

If you do find yourself getting stagnant and just going through the motions, it may be time to start looking, even if you have not been in your current position very long. It is important to be excited and motivated at work. An employer who is not providing its employees with ways to stay interested will not be getting the most out of their people and that may not be a team you want to be on.

Cons

Stigma

Fair or unfair, a job hopper’s commitment is going to be in question. Even companies hiring job hoppers will have this thought and it will be the first hurdle you will need to overcome. Regardless of your experience, there is a cost associated with hiring a new employee and a potential employer will question investing in you if they fear you may jump ship in a year or two. Being designated a job hopper could also be translated as someone who is not a team player and not committed to an organization’s success.

Internal Competition

With any job you apply to at a new employer, know that they are probably offering that position to current employees as well. You will likely be up against internal candidates who are known quantities at that organization and will have a leg up on you. Conversely, by leaving your job after a short while, you may be missing out on opportunities for advancement internally with your employer.

Making a Mistake

Are you positive things won’t get better in your current job? You need to be certain before you decide to make a move. There is always a certain degree of uncertainty when changing jobs: “Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.” In other words, the last thing you want is to start a job search again if the grass won’t be greener with a new employer. Make sure a new opportunity provides you with the things you found lacking in your current job.

Chaning_Jobs_Pros_and_Cons.pngBottom Line

If your current job is providing you with career growth, professional satisfaction, and a salary that is commensurate with your contributions and experience, it is probably a good idea to stay. If you are not getting any of that, it may be time for a change. If you do start interviewing after being in a job for a short time, you will need to have reasons why you are looking, not just wanting more money.  Focus on the contributions you have made, the skills you have developed, and how your career has advanced. Whichever way you decide to go, be sure that you are aware of your true career desires so you know you are making the right decision.

 

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