Are you what employers consider a "job hopper?"

At Concorde, we pride ourselves in helping our students jumpstart their career through a hands-on health care training program.

For many of our students, it's their first career-focused position. For others who may be launching a second career, it's a field that comes with a bit of learning curve.

Job roles can even have a honeymoon phase too. Everything is new and exciting and then the shininess wears off and, while the work is rewarding, it becomes part of your daily life.

Before you think about making a move, consider if you fall into the category of "job hopping."

What is job hopping?

With this in mind, "job hopping" can be defined most literally as moving from job-to-job after only a few months. Beyond the surface, job hopping typically is spurred by something like:

• You cannot get along with boss or co-workers
• You were asked to leave the company.
• You are too easily bored or have unrealistic career expectations.
• You were not given much responsibility, and this could indicate poor job performance.

What is not job hopping?

When considering what is not job hopping, you might want to consider "why" you decided to look for new work. For instance, maybe you were uncertain if a temporary position were it would become permanent. Otherwise, perhaps you wanted to move into a role that lines up more with the area of expertise.

Another reason might be that your company offered you a promotion in a different state, or the company might have closed or had mass layoffs. The above-described reasons for seeking new work are some seemingly more valid explanations for multiple moves reflected on your resume.

How do employers view job hopping?

Job hopping has both benefits and disadvantages according to researchers and employers. On one hand, it can give you the chance to acquire skills you cannot learn in the classroom. Changing positions might be especially helpful when first developing your career. However, moving from place to place too often can also raise red flags with future employers, even if it's justified in your mind.

What are some ways to address job hopping in an interview?

Most importantly, have a plan to talk strategically about your moves. You could explain that when you first started your career you were concentrating on gaining experience, but now, you are more focused on finding the right fit to apply those skills.

Additionally, draw attention to the skills you acquired throughout your career that would benefit a prospective new employer. Having an attitude that you are proud of your accomplishments also will help you during an interview.

We know that life happens! Even after you graduate from your health care training program, our graduate employment team is here to help every step of the way! Whether it's just to bounce ideas off or to guide you through mock interviews, we're committed to seeing you flourish wherever you put down roots.