The Consequences of Frequent Job Switching

For the past 5 years, several of my friends & classmates have been voluntarily switching jobs every 12-18 months for better prospects (compensation, designation, stature etc)

But, there is NO free lunch: Today, in a cooler talent market, these folks are now struggling.

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023

With massive layoffs in the past 2 quarters, recruiters have smaller quotas to fill & WAY more candidates to sift through.

Now, my friends are asked hard questions: “Why did you switch to {X} after {Y} months at {Z}?” In fact, frequent switching is being looked upon unfavorably.

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023

The recruiter now has leverage & based on past history they might wonder IF the candidate is reliable or not?🤷

To be fair to both the recruiter & candidate: IF you have one or two such sudden (< 18 month switches), it is understandable

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023

There could an expectations mis-match, lack of fit or (various forms of) harassment.

BUT, if every role on your CV is ~12 to 18 months (& you’re NOT a freelancer) - it isn’t a great time to be you.

Worse - general view is that hopping jobs quickly let’s you boost your comp.

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023

And, in today’s market - it means a job hopper is going to be hit by a much harder (relative) compensation plateau / reduction versus their more stable peers.

Also, as you progress further up the ladder - it is next to impossible to hop jobs like a bunny rabbit

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023

Senior hire / executive recruitment or headhunting is often a 6-12 “courtship” process. Some folks who’ve been hopping around might be in for a rude shock both today & in the future.

My personal view (having been both a candidate & recruiter in the past ~4 years):

— Rahul Mathur (@Rahul_J_Mathur) March 28, 2023