Could Job Hopping Make You a Better Employee?

The practice of job hopping is often looked upon with negativity, and employees who move from job to job are typically viewed as lazy, uncommitted or flaky. What many millennials are discovering, however, is that job hopping can actually provide some surprising benefits if handled correctly.

1. Gain Real-World Experience

If you’re unsure of what direction your career is heading or what work you truly enjoy, job hopping can help you feel out a variety of positions and employers. While building your job knowledge, you can also learn about yourself and your future goals, which provides a clearer picture of the career path you want to take.

2. Improve Your Salary

An increase in pay may be one big factor that helps you decide to take a new job. If a position you’re interested in doesn’t offer a boost in salary, you can attempt to negotiate one. Career consultant Tammy Kabell suggests asking a potential new employer for a 10- to 15-percent increase in salary, explaining that average employees receive only a 3- to 5-percent bump with a promotion through their present employers.

3. Build Your Resume

As you gain more job knowledge, you also grow your technical skills. Job hopping helps you become a well-rounded, knowledgeable and successful employee. Bring up previous job duties in an interview to demonstrate to the hiring manager how you exceeded expectations with a former employer or performed similar work in a previous position.

4. Expand Your Network

While job hopping, you meet new people that you may not have known otherwise, from colleagues and managers to business partners and clients. As you move on to another position, maintain these positive relationships so you can call on them later as references to vouch for your accomplishments and skills. Additionally, someone in your professional network may be just the lead you need to clue you in on a potential job opportunity in the future.

5. Increase Your Motivation

If you’re bored in your current position or feel like your professional path is leading nowhere, your on-the-job productivity may suffer. Job hopping can help increase your motivation by offering an exciting challenge, a change of scenery or a new group of co-workers. According to a Gallup poll, the average employee feels more engaged in his work when he has been with the company for less than three years compared to employees who have been there longer.

While job hopping can have its share of drawbacks if handled irresponsibly, the practice may also offer surprising benefits for a worker with a drive to succeed. Think strategically when taking a new position, and strive to do your best in every role you fill. If a potential employer asks about the number of jobs listed on your resume, be open and honest about your reasons for job hopping and your future career goals.

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