When scanning résumés, it’s easy to overlook candidates who’ve moved between roles frequently. But in today’s job market, “job hopping” isn’t always a bad thing — it can actually be a sign of ambition, adaptability, and valuable experience.
What Is a Job Hopper?
A job hopper is someone who changes jobs every one to two years. While this used to raise red flags about loyalty, today it often reflects career growth, contract work, or the search for a better culture fit.
As Greg Kouwiloyan, Director at Method Recruitment Group, explains:
“It’s no longer fair to assume someone who’s had a few short stints is unreliable. Sometimes they’re just searching for the right fit, culture or environment.”
Why You Should Consider Them
Job hoppers can bring:
- Fresh ideas from diverse workplaces
- Adaptability and resilience in fast-changing environments
- Broader skills from exposure to different systems and teams
The key is to look beyond the timeline and understand why they moved — not just how often.
The Takeaway
A varied work history doesn’t mean instability. Many job hoppers bring creativity, perspective, and energy that can strengthen your team. The next “job hopper” you interview might just be your best long-term hire.
Source: Why You Should Hire a Job Hopper – SEEK (Independent research by Nature on behalf of SEEK, September 2025)
