We often speak with clients that are searching for candidates with a wide range of experience and multiple skills in their sector. However, one of the stipulations is commonly ‘no job hoppers please.’

Whilst historically ‘job hopping’ is seen to be a negative on a CV, we are keen to explore the reasons why it might not be, and how you can tailor your CV to show your career moves as a positive.

Working for different companies gives you a diverse range of experience and skills

The ability to work outside your comfort zone, with ever-changing demands are key skills that most employers value greatly, especially in today’s world. Working for a range of companies and in different industries demonstrates that you can work with different people of varying seniority levels effectively. Something that may not be so widely available with candidates that have only worked for one or even two organisations.

Long tenure isn’t a measure of performance or development

Employers want to see that you can see projects through and demonstrate commitment through even the toughest times. However, working somewhere for a long time doesn’t necessarily showcase this. It can be a sign of being comfortable and not pushing yourself to reach your full potential. Instead of focusing on how long you have worked somewhere, focus on your professional development, highlighting the key skills you’ve learned during your time there.

Understanding the reasons for the job changes is key

Dismissing a candidate because they have too many jobs on their CV could mean missing out on an opportunity that would greatly benefit your business. In today’s job market money alone won’t attract or retain talent. Job seekers are increasingly focused on a work/life balance, a workplace culture that aligns with their values and flexible working practices. Just because someone exited a company due to poor workplace culture or a difficult manager doesn’t mean they won’t be the perfect fit for you.

Having multiple jobs on a CV doesn’t have to be seen as a negative. As a job seeker, ensure you promote the reasons why each change of role helped you enhance and move forward in your career bringing you to where you are today. As long as you can prove each role had its own successes.

Employers, don’t be too quick to dismiss a CV without understanding more about the individual. Working with a recruitment agency can help with this greatly, as candidates wouldn’t have been passed over without pre-qualification interviews to understand prior experience.