These days, the idea of staying at one company for decades is becoming less common. Over the past 15 years, I’ve held more than six different full-time jobs, and each new role has brought with it unique opportunities and significant benefits. This approach to career growth has helped me crest the six-figure salary mark, broaden my network, and gain valuable insights into how different companies operate. But while there are clear advantages to changing jobs, it’s also important to be strategic about when and why you make a move.
The Benefits of Not Staying at a Job Too Long
1. Boost in Salary with Every Role. One of the most tangible benefits of not staying at a job for too long is the potential for a salary increase with each new position. Every time I transitioned to a new role, I was able to negotiate a higher salary, ultimately pushing my earnings into the six-figure range. By leveraging the skills and experience gained from previous positions, you can position yourself as a more valuable candidate, which often translates to better compensation.
2. Expanding Your Professional Network. Changing jobs has also allowed me to expand my professional network significantly. Each company has its own ecosystem of professionals, and by moving between organizations, I’ve been able to build relationships with a diverse group of colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders. A broad network is invaluable for career growth, providing opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and even future job opportunities.
3. Learning How Different Companies Work. Every company operates differently, with unique cultures, processes, and management styles. By working in various organizations, I’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of how different businesses function. This knowledge has been crucial in developing a versatile skill set that can be applied across industries. It’s also helped me identify the types of work environments where I thrive, which is essential for long-term career satisfaction.
4. Exposure to Different Management Styles. Another benefit of changing jobs is the exposure to different management styles. I’ve had the opportunity to work under a variety of leaders, each with their own approach to management. This experience has not only taught me how to adapt to different leadership styles but also helped me develop my own management philosophy. Understanding what works—and what doesn’t—has been key in shaping my leadership abilities.
5. Figuring Out What You Like and Don’t Like. Perhaps one of the most important benefits of changing jobs is the ability to explore different roles and industries to figure out what you truly enjoy. Every new job has been an opportunity to refine my understanding of my strengths, passions, and career goals. By experiencing different tasks, responsibilities, and workplace cultures, I’ve been able to identify what I like and, just as importantly, what I don’t like. This self-awareness has been crucial in guiding my career decisions and ensuring that I’m in roles that align with my long-term goals.
What Not to Do When Changing Jobs
While there are many benefits to changing jobs, it’s important to be mindful of how and why you make a move. Here are a few key considerations:
- Don’t Make It a Habit to Leave When Things Get Tough: Changing jobs should be driven by a desire for growth and new challenges, not simply because you’re unhappy with your current tasks. It’s important to distinguish between a temporary setback and a situation that genuinely warrants a move. Developing resilience and problem-solving skills within a role can be just as valuable as moving to a new position.
- Avoid Burning Bridges: When you do decide to leave a job, it’s crucial to do so on good terms. Maintaining positive relationships with former employers and colleagues can be beneficial for future networking and references. Always provide ample notice, help with the transition, and express gratitude for the opportunities you had.
- Be Strategic About Your Moves: Each job change should be part of a larger career strategy. Consider how a new role will contribute to your long-term goals and whether it offers the growth, learning, and networking opportunities you’re seeking. Moving too frequently without a clear purpose can raise red flags for future employers, so it’s important to be intentional with your career decisions.
Changing jobs frequently has been a key factor in my career success, helping me boost my salary, expand my network, and gain valuable insights into different industries and management styles. However, it’s so important to approach each job change strategically, ensuring that every move is aligned with your long-term career goals. By doing so, you can enjoy the many benefits of a dynamic career while avoiding the potential pitfalls.