Job Hopping, Explained (Pros, Cons and Doing it Right)

Introduction

Job-Hopping, once stigmatised in HR circles, is now quickly becoming a favourite career strategy among Millennial and Gen Z workers. When the new generation of workers adopt new values and priorities, the professional landscape also evolves to accommodate them. 

So, what is Job-Hopping? Why was it, and to an extent still is, controversial? And why is the next generation embracing it with open arms?

What is Job-Hopping? Why is it Done?

Job Hopping refers to changing career roles within 1-2 years. It can be done for several reasons:

• To Switch to a More Fulfilling Role or Industry: It is not uncommon for people to fall out of love with their work or field. In this case, Job-Hopping is the perfect way to rediscover one’s passion and purpose, and set fresh long-term professional goals. 
• To Enhance One’s Career Growth: If a Professional feels that they are not getting the opportunities or recognition they deserve at their existing job, after exhausting all other options, they may consider switching to a different company. 
• To Find a Role that is Engaging and Challenging: A monotonous job is not for everyone. Professionals who need excitement to thrive and grow will often seek opportunities that are outside their comfort zone, outside their current company. 
• To Learn New Skills: Putting yourself in a brand-new work environment is the perfect way to pick up new skills while on the job. This strengthens your professional toolkit and can make you the ‘All-Rounded Employee’ that companies love to hire. 

What are the Advantages of Job-Hopping?

• You Will Gain Transferable Skills: 

Switching workplaces will make you an expert communicator with top-class adaptability. These soft skills are highly transferable and valued, so highlighting them in your interview will definitely impress employers. 

• You are More Likely to Get a Salary Increase: 

According to Pew Research Center, 60% of Job Hopping Professionals report a salary increase at their current roles. Your diversified work experiences can help you land your desired compensation.

• You can Develop a Unique Skill Set: 

When you work at several companies, you pick up multiple skills that others may not. Your unique and practical skill set, in addition to showing quickness to learn, can make you indispensable for potential employers. 

• You can Build a Wide Professional Network: 

Working at several companies can help you build a vast and diverse network of professional contacts. This can help you find new opportunities and have these connections vouch for you. 

• You will not Feel Tied Up: 

While employers are looking for ideal candidates, Professionals are also looking for the ideal employer. Switching companies can give you the opportunity to find your right fit. 

What are the disadvantages of Job-Hopping?

• The ‘Disloyal’ Stigma: 

Despite changing attitudes, some HR Managers (particularly older Managers) may still see frequent switching of companies to be a sign of unreliability, disloyalty or even being difficult to work with. As a result, they may not consider candidates with a history of Job-Hopping. 

The Solution: Make your Reasons Clear. 

When asked about your Job-Hopping in an interview, make your reasons clear and link it back to the company you are interviewing for now.

For example, “I left my role at Company A because I wanted a more flexible work environment and work-life balance. I believe that it is better for my professional development to prioritise my mental health. I noticed that work flexibility and emotional wellbeing of employees are values this company prioritises, which is why I would love to work here.”

• Job-Hopping Syndrome: 

Like all career growth strategies, Job-Hopping has to be carried out mindfully. Else, you may find yourself accepting a role that is unsuitable for your needs and long-term career goals, prompting you to switch again. 

The Solution: Reflect and Plan

It is important to be clear on where you want your career to progress. What is your end goal? How do you plan on getting there? How will switching roles help you reach this goal? Answering these questions will give you clarity on whether you should be Job Hopping or not. 

• Lack of Consistent Experience: 

Switching roles too often can result in incomplete on-site training and inadequate skill development. In some domains, like medicine, it is wiser to gain long-term experience. 

The Solution: Weigh the pros and cons

Once again, reflect on your goals and reasons. Is it possible to get the same or similar level of expertise in another role? Is there any reason why you wish to leave before you can sufficiently gain insights? Are there alternative ways to gain these skills (for example, Online Short Courses)? Knowing these answers will help you make the right decision for your career. 

Concluding Thoughts

Job-Hopping, once controversial, is now gaining widespread acceptance and popularity among the younger generation of Professionals. While it comes with drawbacks, it is undeniable that Job-Hopping has concrete professional benefits. Ultimately, every Professional must decide for themselves if they want to adopt the strategy, and how to implement it effectively. 

Sources:

• https://www.shiftbase.com/glossary/job-hopping

• https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20220720-the-case-for-job-hopping 

• https://hbr.org/2024/09/how-to-explain-job-hopping-in-an-interview 

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/starting-new-job/job-hopping 

• https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/job-hopping-v2/