Job-hop with purpose

It’s important to always be on the lookout for new opportunities. However, job-hopping, changing jobs too often could be shooting yourself in the foot. Think carefully before you hop. Here are some things to consider.

Don’t job-hop blindly: Too many changes in quick succession can become a problem as hiring managers may wonder if you have itching feet. Stay with each job for at least 18-24 months, even if to prove you can develop some roots and learn something substantial. Of course, if you are a high flyer and outgrow jobs quickly, then thinking about a job that has huge room to grow might be the right way to go rather than changing every year or so.

Know when to stay and when to go: Always be clear why you are keeping the job and under what considerations to move. Sometimes the security you might feel exists by staying put in one job may turn out to be false. Similarly rushing to another job because you don’t like your current one could be moving to grass that’s not necessarily greener. Plan any moves thoughtfully.

Don’t job-hop for money alone: Don’t let your job-hopping be determined by money. Do it for knowledge, skills and experience. If you are tempted, make sure to check the work you’ll be doing and satisfy yourself that it’s the right one. Or if you wish to hop for other reasons, be sure you don’t end up regressing.

Combine roots and adventure to learn: Especially in early career or if your current line of work no longer works for you, then a leap of faith or a more adventurous approach may be required to find what interests you. As you explore new horizons, note patterns in what excites you and start building a body of work in those areas. Don’t get adventurous only for the fun of it.

Now take action: What’s one reason you appreciate your current role? n