Job Hopping

Job hopping is the practice of leaving one job for another relatively often, usually within a short span of time. Job hopping can stem from a desire for more money or a different career path, or it can be the result of a company's restructuring or a layoff. Job hopping can be beneficial to job seekers in certain situations as they are able to gain diverse experience quickly, but potential employers may be skeptical of workers who seemingly move around too much.

Benefits of Job Hopping: Job hopping can provide job seekers with the opportunity to gain a wide range of skills and experiences, develop a portfolio of contacts, and climb the ladder quickly. With each job, job hoppers have the potential to increase their incomes and develop new skills that can set them apart from competitors in the job market. Plus, job hoppers have the potential to quickly enter growing industries or sectors that they’re passionate about.

Drawbacks of Job Hopping: Job hopping does come with drawbacks. Employers may view potential candidates who have hopped jobs many times as unreliable or unfocused, someone who is a “job hopper” may also be seen as lacking commitment or loyalty. Job hoppers may also find it difficult to keep up with a current resume and may be forgetful of vital past experiences when applying for a new job.

Tips for Job Hoppers: To be a successful job hopper there are a few tips that job seekers should keep in mind. Take time in between jobs to consider whether the job you’re thinking about next is a good fit, always keep a detailed log of your experience and performance on each job, network to stay informed on any new job possibilities, and take time to update your resume when you’re ready to search for a new job.