The way people build careers is changing. The days of staying with one company for an entire career are gone.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average worker now holds 12 different jobs throughout their lifetime, with Millennials and Gen Z moving jobs even more frequently.
More and more professionals are embracing what’s called job hopping, moving from one job to another every few years. Some say it can fast-track your career and boost your pay. But experts warn it can also come with real risks.
Career coach Jenna Watson says job hopping is driven by technology, economic uncertainty and changing career expectations.
“It really depends on where you are in your career and what your goals are,” said Jenna Watson, a licensed mental health counselor.
For some, job hopping can mean faster promotions, higher salaries, diverse experience and skill development and a wider professional network.
But Watson says the modern career path doesn’t follow the old-fashioned model.
“We no longer climb up a ladder. It’s more like a jungle gym, right?” said Watson.
That “jungle gym” approach can open doors. But moving too often can also raise red flags.
Some recruiters say frequent job changes can signal a lack of commitment or stability. And changing jobs too quickly can mean losing benefits that build over time, like retirement matches, PTO, or promotion tracks.
It can also make it harder to develop deep expertise or long-term professional relationships.
Career experts say the key is making sure each move builds new skills, responsibilities, or opportunities not just a pay raise.
“Moving jobs can be incredibly strategic and beneficial to somebody,” explained Watson.
Just remember, the best career move isn’t just about leaving a job. It’s about leaving for the right reason.
A few more cases for sticking with one company, institutional knowledge is currency. When tough financial times hit, your knowledge may save your position.
Also, companies usually entrust their most important projects to the employees they know and can trust. Some experts say the tenure sweet spot is three to five years. Long enough to achieve meaningful accomplishments but not so long that you limit your growth opportunities.
When you do leave, be sure to leave on a high note, work hard to the end, be on time and continue supporting your colleagues.