April 2nd 2024.
Job hopping has long been considered a negative practice, with the belief that staying in a job for a significant amount of time will ultimately lead to success in the form of promotions, salary increases, and respect from management. However, this viewpoint is starting to shift, particularly among younger age groups. In fact, a recent survey found that 70% of Generation Z is actively or passively seeking a new job, despite claiming to be loyal to their current employer. The main motivations for seeking new opportunities include better work-life balance and support for mental health.
On social media platform TikTok, there is a growing trend of people sharing the benefits of changing jobs frequently. Former software engineer, Frank Niu, who retired at the age of 30, advocates for job hopping, claiming that it allowed him to almost double his salary by constantly moving from one job to another every one to two years. However, what do the experts have to say about this practice? According to Michael Doolin, CEO of Clover HR, changing jobs every 2.5 to 3.5 years is ideal as it keeps employees fresh, current, and marketable. He also adds that it takes three to six months to find a new job, so networking is crucial for those seeking better opportunities.
There are several benefits to changing jobs, including gaining new skills, engaging with a wider range of stakeholders, and being exposed to new systems and technologies. However, there are also downsides, such as "shift shock," where individuals realize that their new job is not what they expected. This phenomenon was experienced by 72% of job hoppers, according to a survey. Additionally, job hopping can also raise questions about an individual's loyalty and commitment to their roles, especially for more senior positions.
While changing jobs frequently may be seen as a positive thing for younger individuals who are still trying to figure out their career paths, it can be a red flag for more senior roles. Employers tend to look for candidates who demonstrate loyalty and commitment to their roles. However, data from the Office for National Statistics shows that a significant portion of adults in the UK are not looking for employment. Shoshanna Davis, Gen Z engagement expert and founder of Fairy Job Mother, believes that this is because traditional 9-5 jobs are no longer suitable for the modern world. Many young people are struggling to make ends meet, despite following society's expectations of going to school, university, and getting a job.
The changing attitudes towards traditional work can also be attributed to the experiences of the older generation, who have struggled for years with little reward or loyalty from employers. This has led to a shift in the values of younger individuals, who prioritize factors such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, and personal development. However, other experts argue that an individual's employment history should not be a factor in the recruitment process. Khyati Sundaram, CEO of ethical AI hiring experts Applied, believes that employers should focus on whether the candidate's values align with the company's values, rather than how often they have changed jobs.
When deciding whether to stay in a job and wait for a promotion or change jobs, it is essential to consider the opportunities for professional growth, personal circumstances, and priorities. Some industries may have longer promotion timelines but offer higher earning potential, while others may provide opportunities for professional qualifications and employee benefits. Ultimately, the decision to change jobs or stay in a current role is a personal one that should be based on individual priorities and goals.
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