To Job Hop or Not To Job Hop?

Hello again,

Welcome to another edition of Your Workplace Culture Guide. This month, we are looking at a trend in the job market - Job Hopping.

Job hopping, the practice of changing employers frequently, has become a norm. Instead of staying with one company for decades, professionals now prefer shorter terms, using each role as a stepping stone towards their career goals. 

Our recent survey reveals that 59% of people believe job hopping is a positive career move as it allows for diverse experiences, hence 68% of people have had 1-2 jobs in the past 5 years. Additionally, 63% of employers appreciate the diversity of skills gained from job hopping, highlighting a shift in how career transitions are perceived in the modern job market. This survey shows the changing attitude towards job hopping, unlike in the past where it was viewed negatively, and associated with a lack of loyalty or commitment. 

In reality, we all have different things we look out for in a job. In our survey, career growth and salary and benefits are the top two factors that influence individuals when deciding to stay or leave a job. Other factors highlighted were; work culture, purpose, and job security. 

Job hopping offers several benefits, including allowing people to diversify their skills through exposure to different work environments and cultures. It also improves earning potential, allowing for salary and benefits negotiations with new employers. Additionally, it expands your professional network, offering access to new experiences and career opportunities. 

Yet, there are downsides too! From our survey, 48% of people have regretted a job hop!  Frequent job changes can raise concerns about stability and long-term commitment, especially with more traditional employers. Adapting to new environments can also be challenging - 57% of our respondents said so - leading to burnout and stress. 

If you decide to job hop as a career strategy, here are some tips: 

• Be Strategic: Plan your job hops carefully, choosing roles that align with your long-term career goals and provide opportunities for growth and learning.

• Maintain a Strong Professional Network: 44% of our respondents believe that in considering new opportunities, one should network extensively - with former colleagues and managers. 

• Balance Stability and Change: While frequent changes can be beneficial, staying in a role long enough to make a significant impact is also important. Aim for a balance that showcases both your adaptability and your ability to commit.

Whatever your reasons for job hopping may be, do not hesitate to make that move when it is right. 59% of professionals have stayed in a job longer than they wanted due to fear of job-hopping stigma - do not be one of them. 

To a fulfilling career!!!!

As always, here are our job openings in May.

Until next month, happy cultur-ing.

Hikmah 😎

with

Your Workplace Culture Guide.