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Hi There! ?? Thanks for reading! Here we share expert, easy-to-follow advice on personal branding and the creator economy. If you are new to our community and would like to get better results building your reputation and business, click the "subscribe" button above.

If you are currently looking for work, and it's been a struggle, I wish you courage, persistence, and strength to push through and find an open door back to being employed.

(I'm also happy to offer you a free copy of my book if it helps, DM me)

Unfortunately, all of my best "job finding" advice starts with you having a job already.

In my humble opinion, once you are unemployed, all bets are off and you may have to settle for a job to get you through today so you can find something better tomorrow.

Have you ever heard this saying?

"It’s easier to find a job when you have a job."

Unfortunately, there is some truth to it. Employers tend to view employed candidates as more desirable, assuming they are skilled, in-demand, and up-to-date with industry practices. Plus, being employed gives you negotiating power, as you’re not under pressure to accept the first offer.

Once you have a job, don't just sit back and enjoy the ride. You may only have this job for a year. Nothing is guaranteed. Help your future self be prepared to thrive.

?Also, check out my new book all about building authority in your industry! Front & Center Leadership: How Leaders Use Personal Branding to Stand Out and How You Can Too!

Here are some things you can do to give yourself more leverage in the future.

P.S. Jump ahead if you'd like to know the benefits of job hopping on purpose

1. Build and Maintain a Robust Professional Network

Networking is one of the most effective ways to secure new opportunities. Many job openings are never publicly advertised and are filled through personal connections.

• Stay Connected: Regularly engage with former colleagues, managers, and industry peers on platforms like LinkedIn. Congratulate them on achievements, comment on their updates, and share relevant content.
• Expand Your Circle: Attend industry events, webinars, and local meetups to meet new people. Networking is about relationships, not just job leads, so focus on meaningful connections.

Having a strong network ensures you have allies to support your job search if the need arises.

2. Keep Your Skills Sharp and Relevant

The job market evolves rapidly, and outdated skills can hinder your prospects. Stay competitive by continually updating your expertise.

• Take Courses: Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, or pursue certifications in your field. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy are great resources.
• Learn New Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software or tools, even if they’re not currently used in your role.
• Seek Stretch Assignments: Volunteer for projects at work that challenge you to learn new skills or gain experience outside your core responsibilities.

Being well-rounded and adaptable makes you more attractive to potential employers.

3. Create and Update Your Personal Brand

A strong personal brand can make you a magnet for opportunities, even when you’re not actively looking.

• Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: Use a professional photo, write a compelling headline, and regularly update your experience and skills. Include quantifiable achievements that showcase your value.
• Be Active Online: Share industry insights, publish thought-leadership articles, or engage with relevant discussions on LinkedIn or Twitter.
• Build a Portfolio: If applicable, maintain a portfolio of your work to showcase your expertise. This is especially important for creative and technical professionals.

A polished personal brand helps employers and recruiters see you as a valuable asset.

4. Save an Emergency Fund

Job loss can be financially stressful, so having a safety net is crucial.

• Save 3–6 Months of Expenses: Aim to set aside enough money to cover your essential expenses for at least three months. This gives you breathing room to focus on your job search.
• Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to a high-yield savings account to make saving a habit.

A financial cushion allows you to approach your job search with confidence and less urgency.

5. Regularly Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Don’t wait until you’re job hunting to dust off your resume.

• Keep it Current: Update your resume and cover letter template every six months with new accomplishments, skills, and roles.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to highlight your impact, such as “increased sales by 20%” or “managed a team of 15.”
• Tailor for Each Role: While it’s good to have a master resume, be prepared to customize it for specific job applications.

Being resume-ready saves time and ensures you don’t forget key details.

6. Research Your Market Value and Opportunities

Understanding your value and the job market ensures you’re ready to make informed decisions.

• Know Your Worth: Use tools like Glassdoor, PayScale, and Salary.com to research salaries for your role and experience level.
• Track Openings: Regularly browse job boards to stay informed about demand in your field.
• Identify Trends: Pay attention to emerging roles, technologies, and skills that are gaining traction in your industry.

Staying informed helps you identify the right opportunities if you need to make a move.

7. Develop Multiple Income Streams

Diversifying your income can reduce financial stress during a job loss and even open doors to new opportunities.

• Freelance or Consult: Use your professional skills to take on side projects or consulting work.
• Monetize a Hobby: If you have a marketable hobby—such as writing, graphic design, or coding—explore ways to turn it into a secondary income source.
• Invest in Passive Income: Consider rental properties, dividends, or other passive income streams to supplement your earnings.

These additional income sources can act as a buffer during transitions.

8. Stay Mentally Prepared

Job loss can be emotionally taxing, but a resilient mindset can make a significant difference.

• Visualize Possibilities: Instead of fearing job loss, view it as an opportunity for growth or reinvention.
• Practice Self-Care: Prioritize activities that keep you mentally and physically healthy, such as exercise, mindfulness, or hobbies.
• Seek Support: Build a circle of trusted friends, family, or mentors to turn to for advice or encouragement during challenging times.

A positive outlook makes it easier to navigate uncertainties and pursue new opportunities with confidence.

Preparing for job loss while you’re still employed is about building career resilience and ensuring you’re never caught off guard. By networking, sharpening your skills, strengthening your personal brand, and maintaining financial security, you create a safety net that positions you for success. While it’s true that finding a job is often easier when you’re already employed, these proactive strategies ensure you’re always ready for the next chapter, whether by necessity or choice.

Now let's talk about job hopping!

Job Hopping: Why Changing Jobs Can Be a Smart Career Move

In years past, loyalty to one company for the entirety of one’s career was seen as a symbol of dedication, reliability, and professionalism. Today, the professional landscape has evolved dramatically, and job hopping—moving from one company to another every few years—has shed its former stigma. Instead, it’s increasingly viewed as a strategic career move. For many professionals, especially those in fast-changing industries, switching jobs can offer invaluable advantages, from accelerated skill acquisition to higher earning potential and stronger personal branding.

Let’s take a closer look at the top benefits of job hopping and why it might be the smartest move for your career.

1. Accelerated Skill Development

When you stay at one company for a long time, your role can become repetitive, and growth opportunities might plateau. Job hopping allows you to quickly broaden your skillset, as each new position often requires adapting to different tools, processes, and organizational cultures. Working in diverse environments helps you stay versatile and up-to-date with industry trends. In fact, a 2019 LinkedIn study found that professionals who changed jobs every few years reported acquiring more advanced and varied skills compared to their counterparts who stayed longer in single roles.

By taking on new responsibilities with each job, you build a rich portfolio of experiences that can set you apart in the job market. Employers value candidates who bring a wide range of skills, as these professionals often demonstrate agility, quick learning abilities, and adaptability—traits that are critical in a dynamic business landscape.

2. Increased Earning Potential

One of the most well-known benefits of job hopping is the potential for higher earnings. Often, the biggest salary jumps come when switching companies rather than waiting for incremental raises at the same company. According to a 2020 survey by the salary research firm Payscale, job switchers typically enjoy a 10-20% pay increase, compared to just 3-5% for employees who stay within the same organization.

By strategically hopping from one job to another, professionals can achieve substantial pay growth within a short timeframe. This is especially advantageous in sectors where companies compete for top talent, such as technology, finance, and consulting. Job hopping can be a way to realize your market value more quickly and avoid being underpaid in a static position.

3. Enhanced Networking Opportunities

Each job switch opens doors to a new network of colleagues, mentors, and industry connections. Over time, these networks can become invaluable assets for your career, offering insights, job leads, mentorship, and support. For many professionals, relationships built from different jobs create a robust and diverse network that spans multiple companies and industries, strengthening their overall influence and reach.

Having a broad network can also lead to opportunities outside of traditional employment, including consulting gigs, partnerships, or even entrepreneurial ventures. When you’re well-connected across various companies and sectors, you’re also more likely to stay informed about emerging trends and potential shifts within your industry, making you a more informed and valuable professional.

4. Increased Job Satisfaction and Fulfillment

Career stagnation is one of the leading causes of job dissatisfaction. Many people enjoy the initial challenge and excitement of a new role but may feel unfulfilled after several years in the same position. By periodically changing jobs, you can keep the excitement alive and stay motivated as you face new challenges. Job hopping allows you to consistently seek roles that align better with your evolving interests and passions, resulting in a career path that feels more fulfilling.

Furthermore, each role provides an opportunity to refine your understanding of what you truly enjoy, helping you make more informed career decisions. Over time, you can curate a career that aligns with your strengths, passions, and values, increasing overall job satisfaction.

5. Stronger Personal Brand

In the modern workplace, building a strong personal brand is essential, especially for those aspiring to climb the corporate ladder or become thought leaders. Job hopping can be an effective way to build a dynamic personal brand that demonstrates versatility, adaptability, and broad expertise. By successfully navigating multiple roles, you build a reputation as a professional who thrives in new environments and brings fresh perspectives.

Professionals who have experience across several roles or companies can present themselves as industry-savvy, resourceful, and highly adaptable. If you’re interested in thought leadership or consulting, this versatility becomes an even greater asset, as clients and audiences often prefer insights from those with diverse experiences.

6. A Competitive Edge in a Rapidly Changing Job Market

The global job market is constantly evolving, with new technologies, market shifts, and trends impacting how businesses operate. Professionals who stay agile and are willing to embrace change by job hopping can often stay ahead of these shifts. Each move gives you the chance to join innovative companies, adopt new tools, and learn fresh approaches to problem-solving. This experience helps you remain competitive and relevant in an unpredictable job market.

Job hopping can also help mitigate the risks of economic downturns. Those who have diversified their skillsets and networks by moving between roles and industries are often more resilient and better equipped to handle economic shifts. Employers increasingly value candidates with diverse experiences, as these professionals can adapt quickly and bring a broader perspective to the table.

Navigating Job Hopping Wisely

While job hopping has numerous benefits, it’s important to approach it with intentionality. Constantly changing roles without a clear purpose can raise concerns for potential employers about your commitment and reliability. Here are a few guidelines for strategic job hopping:

• Stay at each role long enough to demonstrate impact: Try to stay in each position for at least 18 months to two years to show you can commit to a role and make a meaningful contribution.
• Focus on growth roles: When job hopping, prioritize positions that will allow you to build valuable skills and experiences, not just those with higher salaries.
• Articulate a clear narrative: Be prepared to explain your career choices, focusing on how each role has contributed to your growth and aligns with your career goals.

In today’s evolving professional landscape, job hopping is increasingly recognized as a powerful strategy for career advancement. When done thoughtfully, changing jobs can accelerate skill development, enhance earning potential, expand your network, and boost job satisfaction. By being strategic and intentional with each move, you can leverage job hopping to build a dynamic, fulfilling, and resilient career.

??Thanks for reading! Do you have any questions you'd like answered? Email me at [email protected] and let me know!

Talk soon,

Brandon Birkmeyer

Personal Branding Coach, Bestselling author of Front & Center Leadership

Say hi on Instagram or LinkedIn

When you're ready, here's how I can help:

• LinkedIn Jumpstart Guide: Learn how to be more professionally active on LinkedIn in an engaging way without wasting a ton of time and energy.
• The Personal Branding Workbook: Learn how to create content online, build a professional network, and add value with your work.
• Get Your Free Personal Brand Scorecard: A 2-minute quiz and Scorecard with tips on improving your personal brand today.