Why Frequently Changing Jobs Can Accelerate Your Career

Job hopping can accelerate your career

Is job-hopping a red flag? It’s a common notion that having too many companies on your resume will ward off recruiters. This can be true, especially early in your career, but in the long run, it can actually be one of the most pivotal steps you take to accelerate your career – if you do it right.?

I spoke with Anthony Hernandez, a problem solver with experience across different industries and companies, as he debunked the job hopper myth. The choice of being loyal to a company or not depends on your perspectives and experiences. Whichever side you’re on, it’s worth looking into why it shouldn’t be frowned upon.

You hone your career narrative – not your title

While job titles are important, your core skill set matters more, said Anthony. Focus on three skills and constantly apply those in any industry to add value to your team. When recruiters see the problems you solve or the values you bring, they will see a pattern. What are you? Are you a problem solver? A storyteller? An innovator?

At the end of the day, it’s a job. Like your title and comps, it can be taken away. But your core skill set? “That’s yours to be owned,” he shared.

Growing old in a company doesn’t apply anymore

Our parents’ dream was to work in a company for 30-40 years and then reach retirement. Unfortunately, most businesses nowadays do not last as long. This shortened lifespan makes it more realistic to work for multiple companies. Think of yourself as a supplier who will add value to the company through your services or skills. But once the job is done, it’s your prerogative to stay or not.

You redefine your strengths and successes

Success isn’t staying in a company, it’s solving its problems. This may be difficult to prove early on in your career because you don’t have a track record yet, but just be upfront. Maybe you’re not management material or you simply get bored easily. State your reasons for why you’ll be a great independent contributor and use your experience – no matter how small – to show how you can impact the company.

Also, some industries, especially startups, welcome individuals who “chase shiny objects” or those driven to know more about the next big thing. Use this to stand out in contrast to tenured candidates who may find it difficult to shift their thinking, especially in highly disrupted industries like tech.

To some, the trade-offs are worth it

As you go through multiple companies, you will be able to widely expand your network, bulk up your experience, learn to navigate various management styles, and (while nuanced by management biases) increase your compensation. However, keep in mind it may be difficult to land a leadership role because you don’t have the track record of growing a big division. It all depends on what opportunities are important to you.

More networking & mentorship = More opportunities

Your best bet to land that next job is by knowing a guy (who knows a guy who knows a guy). It’s through your networks or mentors that you can access information firsthand on a company and gain knowledge that will be with you for the rest of your career. Leverage opportunities like college internship programs, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and mentorship programs to meet people and learn new skills..

SYCK tricks: How to improve your networking skills

1. Find the networking trail. Diversity groups, MBA programs or external coaching (like Kadima Careers) will help you get started.
2. Talk to A LOT of people. The more you message, the more likely it is that someone will respond. You just have to get one to help you.
3. Be active on LinkedIn. If you’re introverted, share articles and your thoughts, or react to others’ posts. These internal actions will make you more noticeable.
4. Prioritize your top companies. For your target companies, refine your outreach message to make them more specific to the firm instead of giving a simple compliment.
5. Don’t turn off job search mode. Habitually and constantly reach out even after you land a job. Networking isn’t purely transactional. Use it to learn and find inspiration.

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