Leaving one job for a better one can be a smart career move, but too many employment changes in a short time span can give human resources managers cause for concern. In a Robert Half survey, HR managers interviewed said an average of five job changes in 10 years can prompt worries you’re a job hopper.
The survey was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on interviews with more than 300 HR managers at companies with 20 or more employees in the United States.
HR managers were asked, “Over a 10-year span, how many job changes, in your opinion, would it take for a professional to be viewed as a job hopper?” The mean response was five.
“The job market has been unpredictable in recent years, and employers understand job candidates may have had short stints in some positions,” says Paul McDonald, Robert Half senior executive director. “However, businesses look for people who will be committed to the organization, can contribute to the company, and help it reach its short- and long-term goals. Too much voluntary job hopping can be a red flag.”
Robert Half offers questions to consider when determining if you should stay at your current job or look for a new one:
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