There is a huge difference between the mindset of previous generations, especially when it comes to work.
Baby Boomers still hold on to the idea of staying loyal to one company. Meanwhile, Millennials, and Gen Zs lean towards “job hopping,”
However, what’s common with all three generations is the search for a job that provides stability, flexibility, and livable wages.
This pursuit of ideal employment just manifests itself in different ways.
And so, most Millennials and Gen Zs aren’t afraid to leave jobs that don’t fit them.
But this begs the question, when can you say you’ve done too much job hopping?
Spending Less Than Two Years At Each Company
While job hopping is more acceptable nowadays, you still need to mind how long you’re staying at each job.
For example, changing employment three times within 18 months can be a red flag to many recruiters.
Why?
It could indicate that you are not committed. Also, switching jobs frequently could also mean you back out at the first sign of a challenge.
That perhaps, when you hit a snag at work, your first instinct is to leave instead of working it out.
Generally, a year or two should suffice. At least three to five years at each company would be optimal.
Your Job Experiences Are Wildly Unrelated
There are many reasons why people are job hopping.
However, the next time a recruiter receives your application and sees your resume with no clear direction, it may hurt your chances.
For example, let’s say you used to be a customer service representative but now want to work as a graphic designer.
That may be too much of a jump unless you have prior experience or have been working on your graphic design portfolio in your spare time.
Remember, regardless of your reasons, your employment history shouldn’t vary too wildly in terms of the jobs you’ve held.
A string of unrelated jobs signals that you have no idea what you want to do.
Mental Health Effects
Having a new job can be exciting. It can open the door to a fresh environment with lots of opportunities to improve.
Yet, job hopping is too much when there’s a lot of anxiety that comes with it.
Changing jobs too often can lead to unfamiliar settings, where you don’t know if your new colleagues will like you or not.
It can also be stressful to constantly have to keep proving yourself.
Lastly, working for another company doesn’t always pan out. So, it can leave you feeling confused if you made the right decision to leave a previous role or company.
The Case of Job Hopping
In the end, frequent job changes aren’t necessarily bad.
Job hopping can even be a smart career move when done strategically.
You get to reap several benefits—better pay, promotions, and an expanded skill set.
As always, be sure to thoroughly think of the consequences and do your research before taking the leap.
On that note, if you are looking for flexibility, look into Remote Staff’s job board. It is constantly updated and we currently have open job positions in several industries.
Remote Staff has been in business for 15 years. The company aims to bring world-class Filipino talents to Australian clients. So, if you have been looking for an opportunity to change your career, register as a remote contractor with us today!
