Job hopping – it’s a term that tends to get a bad rap. But here’s the thing: it can actually be both a career booster and a potential pitfall, depending on how you play it. So, what’s the deal with job hopping? Simply put, it’s when you jump from one opportunity to another, usually within a short timeframe and is often seen as a sign that someone isn’t quite “loyal” to their employer.
Let’s take a moment to think back a few decades —when people stayed with one company for 20, 30, or even 40 years. Loyalty was the name of the game. Employees were considered assets, and long-term commitment was highly valued.
What changed, and why isn’t loyalty something most Australians offer today?
It largely comes down to organisations either not wanting or being unable to offer the same opportunities and benefits (including salary or promotional advancement) to their current employees. As a result, the allure of greener pastures at other companies becomes more enticing and now moving around every couple of years has quickly become the new norm for Aussie’s and their careers.
Today the national average tenure in a job is 3.3 years (3 years and 4 months), based on voluntary turnover of around 15% per annum, reflecting a shift away from the traditional concept of lifelong employment with a single employer, it’s in fact it’s closer to 3 jobs per decade for the average Australian.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in February 2024, there were 14 million employed people. Of these, over half (57%) had been in their current job for less than 5 years. About 19% had been in their job for less than a year, and only 10% had been in their current role for 20 years or more. The proportion of people in their current job for 1 to 4 years has increased since 2023, rising from 35% to 39%.
Although moving jobs every 3 to 4 years has become normal and, for the most part, accepted, it raises the question of whether job hopping is still a good idea. Below are 5 benefits and downsides to consider before making your next move:
5 Benefits of Job Hopping:
Fast-Tracking Promotions: One of the most obvious perks is the ability to climb the career ladder quicker. Moving around allows you to gain new responsibilities and opportunities that may take longer in a more traditional, long-term role.
Higher Salaries: Along with the chance for faster promotions comes the opportunity to earn more. Job hoppers often see their salaries rise as they move, especially when they jump to roles that align better with current market rates.
Diverse Experiences: Every new role exposes you to different skills, teams, and ways of working. The variety can help broaden your professional experience, making you more adaptable and well-rounded.
Avoiding Stagnation: Staying in the same role or company for too long can sometimes lead to burnout or feeling stagnant. Job hopping can keep you energised by providing fresh challenges and new environments that push you to grow.
Career Clarity: With each job change, you gain more clarity on what you really want in your career—whether that’s a specific role, industry, or company culture. This trial-and-error approach can help you narrow down your ideal career path.
5 Downsides of Job Hopping:
The "Job Hopper" Stigma: There's a potential risk that future employers might view your frequent moves as a red flag, assuming you can't stick with a role or make it through probation. It can be a challenge to convince others that you're in it for the long haul.
Missing the Long-Term Journey: Sometimes, sticking with a company allows you to see projects through to completion or be part of a company's growth during tough times. These are experiences that can really shape your career and provide deeper, more meaningful lessons.
Chasing Salary Over Meaning: While jumping for a bigger pay check sounds tempting, it's easy to overlook the things that make work truly fulfilling-like a supportive team, a company culture that aligns with your values, or work that feels meaningful. Salary alone isn't always the key to long-term job satisfaction.
Lack of Stability: Job security can be a concern, especially in industries or companies prone to layoffs or restructuring. Frequent moves could make it harder to establish long-term financial stability. Additionally, constant job changes may mean more periods spent on probation, and benefits like sick leave, annual leave, and long service leave may not be available or as easy to accrual.
Getting Off-Track: It's easy to jump at any opportunity, but sometimes those opportunities don't align with your ultimate career goals or desired industry. If you're not careful, you could end up drifting away from your true career passion and path.
Should you make your next move?
Ultimately, the decision to move jobs is a personal one, but it’s important to carefully consider several factors before making your move. First, ask yourself: Are you
advancing your career by moving up the ladder, or are you simply sidestepping? Is there a significant salary increase, or the ability to gain more opportunities to learn and grow in the role? Weighing these questions will help ensure that your next move aligns with your long-term goals and aspirations, rather than just being a change for the sake of change.
Additionally, it's crucial to research the company you're considering moving to, as well as evaluate the industry and economic environment to determine whether it's a wise decision for your future.
For more job-seeking advice, check out our other Blogs or explore our FREE Templates and Resources to help you on your career journey.
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