How Much Job Hopping is Too Much?

Robert Half Survey Reveals Six Jobs in 10 Years May Raise Red Flags

TORONTO, Jan. 9, 2014 /CNW/ - 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 (HR) managers cause for concern. In a Robert Half survey, HR managers interviewed said an average of six job changes in 10 years can prompt worries you're a job hopper.

The survey was developed by Robert Half, the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm, and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on interviews with more than 300 human resources managers at Canadian companies.

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 six.

"Organizations look for candidates who will contribute to the business reaching its short- and long-term goals, and that requires a certain level of commitment to the company," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, International Staffing Operations. "Employers understand that the unpredictable job market in recent years may have resulted in shorter term employment, but too much voluntary job hopping can raise a red flag and candidates should be prepared to address those questions from potential employers."

Robert Half offers questions to consider when determining if you should stay at your current job or look for a new one:

1. Why do you want a new opportunity? Are you looking for greater challenge or more money? A shorter commute or more flexible hours? A better relationship with your manager? Be sure to keep the job factors that are most important to you at the forefront of your decision and pursue a new opportunity only if it helps address those issues.
2. Have you looked within? Don't assume you need to leave your company to find the job you want. There may be other jobs with your current employer that are a better fit.
3. Where is the greatest long-term potential and stability? Is your best chance to build your skills and advance your career with your existing firm or another one? Which business is on the most solid footing? You don't want to make a move only to learn your career progression is stalled, or your new company is struggling.

About Robert Half

Robert Half has more than 345 staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search services on its divisional websites, all of which can be accessed at www.roberthalf.ca. Follow Robert Half on Twitter at twitter.com/RobertHalf_CAN.

Image with caption: "Robert Half Survey Reveals Six Jobs in 10 Years May Raise Red Flags (CNW Group/Robert Half Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140109_C7717_PHOTO_EN_35404.jpg

SOURCE: Robert Half Canada