Having a wide variety of employers can make workers seem well-rounded, but too much moving around can also make them appear less desirable, new research shows. According to the study, conducted by staffing firm Robert Half, human resources managers said that having an average of five or more job changes in 10 years can cause them to worry that an employee is a job hopper.
Paul McDonald, senior executive director at Robert Half, said that because the job market has been unpredictable in recent years, most employers understand that job candidates may have had short stints in some positions.
"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," McDonald said. "Too much voluntary job hopping can be a red flag." [8 Words That Will Land Your Resume in the Trash]
Robert Half offers questions employees should ask themselves when determining if they should stay at their current job or look for a new one:
Why do you want a new opportunity? Are you looking for a 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 at the forefront of the decision and pursue a new opportunity only if it helps address those issues.
Have you looked within your current company? Employees should not assume they have to leave their current company to find the job they want. There may be other jobs with their current employer that are a better fit.
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? Employees don't want to make a move, only to learn their career progression is stalled, or their new company is struggling.
The study was based on interviews with more than 300 HR managers at companies with 20 or more employees in the United States.
Image: iStockphoto, alashi
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