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Job Hopping with Intention - Pros, Cons and Considerations

2 Jul 2024

Some employers may still view job hopping negatively, however for many employers it is starting to become more acceptable and less of a barrier to employment.   We explore everything you need to know about the pros and cons about job hopping and how you can explain it to your potential employer.  

What is job hopping?  

Job hopping is when someone stays in a role for a short period, which could range from a few months to two years.  Reasons for job hopping can vary widely. Being unsatisfied in a role or workplace, wanting to change career, a change in personal circumstances – the list goes on,  

How to explain job hopping to an employer 

You should be prepared with an answer if the interviewer or employer asks why you’ve changed jobs frequently. Here are a few ways you can explain it: 

Take a positive approach  

When you’re asked why you’ve been changing roles it’s important to show an optimistic attitude to your job hopping. For example, rather than saying you left because you didn’t like your role or previous employer, you should say that a new opportunity arose or that you wanted to expand your skills.  

Focus on the experience you have gained 

Focus on the skills and experience you have gained from previous roles and how they’ll benefit the new role and company. This will highlight that you're adaptable and willing to learn. You should cover this in your job application, including your CV, cover letter and interviews.  

Showcase your commitment  

Employers want to know that you're committed to the role and company they’re hiring for. Highlight examples of any long-term projects or commitments you’ve undertaken. Showcasing any professional development courses and qualifications you’ve completed will also help show that you're committed to growing your skills and career. 

Address any of your interviewers' concerns 

If you notice that the employer has some concerns about your application such as a gap of employment or lack of experience in the industry, it’s important that you address their concerns quickly and professionally. You should provide examples of how you are or have overcome these concerns and what makes you perfect for the role. This also shows that you’re taking the role seriously and that you’re passionate about the job.  

The pros of job hopping 

It shows that you’re adaptable

Job hopping shows that you can adapt to new environments and build new relationships. This is a skill many employers look for. It also suggests that your range of experience may bring new ideas that can help a business grow.  

It can expand your skill set 

Job hopping is a great way to advance both your soft and hard skills, in turn making you more employable. You’re likely to find that many of your previous job roles, work experience or gaps from employment have provided you with transferable skills that would help you excel in a range of industries and job roles.  

Give you insights into different job industries 

Job hopping can also help you advance your career, as it gives you the opportunity to test and try different roles and industries to see what you enjoy the most. This can help you move forward in your career by doing something you enjoy and want to progress in.  

The cons of job hopping 

There’s a stigma around job hopping 

Some employers worry about your loyalty to their company and if you plan on staying with them long when they see continuous job changes within short periods of time. This could lead to your application being dismissed or some hesitancy around hiring you.  

However, if you use your CV and/or cover letter to explain the reasoning behind your job hopping and highlight relevant skills, experience and self-learning you’ve undertaken this should help you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of being hired.  

You don’t have consistent experience 

Inconsistent experience within a particular industry or role may mean that you need to retrain or learn skills and processes when you start a new role. Employers also tend to prefer hiring people that are progressing and growing a career in the same industry as this shows higher levels of knowledge in that area, commitment, passion and determination.  

Job hopping syndrome   

Job hopping syndrome often happens to people who keep changing jobs and never really enjoy a role. Often people find themselves getting caught up in the thoughts of a bigger salary and better benefits but don’t necessarily consider whether it’s the right decision for them. 

Job hopping is becoming more prominent in a variety of industries, and it shouldn’t put you off applying for roles. If you can explain changes or gaps in your employment and take a positive outlook on it, you’re likely to show employers that you’re great for the role and have lots to offer.