Job hopping has become a common practice among younger professionals, including myself as a younger millennial. The perception of staying at one company for a minimum of 12 months before moving on to a new role has shifted for younger workers. It's important to note that job hopping is not a result of seeking convenience or quitting at the slightest inconvenience. Rather, it stems from the need for companies to meet basic professional needs and provide opportunities for growth and development if they want to retain young talent.
In my own experience, I resigned from my dream job as a freelance writer after two years because I felt that I had reached the limit of my growth potential in that role. While working there was a dream, I realized that my aspirations had grown and it was necessary for me to explore new opportunities. Additionally, I felt unsupported by a new leader who joined the company, which further contributed to my decision to resign. I believe that companies aiming to retain younger workers should prioritize professional development and provide genuine support for their growth.
I then left my next job after only two weeks, which was a difficult decision considering the toxic ideas around professionalism that I had internalized. However, the role did not align with my expectations as tasks and responsibilities were added without prior mention during the interview process. It became clear that staying in that position would make me miserable. Fortunately, another opportunity presented itself, providing financial security through a new full-time job and a freelance gig.
After six months, I also resigned from the freelance writing gig due to issues such as delayed payments and lack of support for editorial operations. Overall, these experiences helped me develop important dealbreakers when considering future job opportunities. For instance, I learned that bosses who prioritize their own celebrity status often neglect the professional development of their employees. Additionally, I realized the value of paying attention to Glassdoor reviews and the experiences shared by senior employees, as they can provide insights into the company culture.
Job hopping does come with its financial risks, especially in uncertain markets. In my own journey, I was laid off from my full-time job a few months after quitting the freelance position, which left me with limited income streams. This taught me the importance of having backup plans and being financially prepared.
Lastly, I have learned the value of asking as many questions as possible during the interview process. It is better to gather relevant information upfront rather than discover dealbreakers later on. While job hunting in this manner may still be considered unorthodox by some, I believe it is crucial to prioritize one's own basic requirements and mental well-being. The best companies to work for are those that prioritize mental wellness and address concerns and questions directly. These employers show that they genuinely care about their employees' well-being and are willing to have difficult conversations.
Thanks to the changing standards of professionalism influenced by Gen Z and younger professionals, I am empowered to prioritize my own needs and be a part of this positive movement.