Job Hopping Millennials: Know Your Limits 

Job hopping is a term to describe changing jobs or switching companies in a short period of time. While it offers exciting opportunities for skill development, increased income, and career path development, it can also impact negatively on job stability and professional reputation. 

Pressure issue 

Believing that labor is a special commodity, Pham Thiet H (born in 1998; living in Tan Binh district, Ho Chi Minh City) has changed workplaces 3 times, even though he is just a young professional with less than 5 years of experience. The longest tenure was more than 1 year, while the shortest was under 3 months. 

Motivated by a desire for personal growth and a fit with his values, H recently left a position that didn’t align with his aspirations. “Today’s job market offers a wealth of exciting and well-paying opportunities, … Instead of settling, I choose to pursue new challenges” – H explains. 

However, job hopping isn’t always smooth sailing. Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich D (born in 1986, from Binh Thuan) has enjoyed a successful career in the hospitality industry, with each job change leading to increased responsibility and income. However, her current problem is that she cannot find a common voice with her colleagues. “As a team leader, I often face pressure due to implicit resistance from my colleagues. Tasks aren’t completed wholeheartedly, hindering progress. Ultimately, the responsibility falls on me.” – Ms. D shared. 

Understand yourself 

According to Dr. Dao Le Hoa An, Director of the Jobway Center for Human Resource Development and Career Training, young workers have grown up in a digital age and are encouraged to value self-determination and decision-making ability. This leads to their willingness to change jobs if they feel unsatisfied or stagnant. 

However, Ms. Thanh Nguyen, CEO of Anphabe Joint Stock Company, cautions against impulsive job hopping. In fact, there are many cases where people fall into despair and depression after changing jobs. It is important for workers to understand themselves, because job hopping only brings benefits if approached strategically and intelligently, with clear goals and a career development plan. 

Recognizing the job-hopping trend among young workers, Ms. Ly Ngoc Tran, Director of HR Outsourcing Services of Talentnet Corporation, said that proactive workers seeking new opportunities can invigorate the labor market, fostering innovation and growth. Businesses will also proactively enhance their competitive position compared to other companies in the same industry. “Companies need to invest in their total remuneration strategy to not only attract talent but also keep them engaged and fulfilled.” – Ms. Tran emphasized. 

On the contrary, as more and more businesses have reliable scales and data of the market and competitors, they will become more selective. The focus is shifting back to core competencies and experience. Job hopping without a strategic plan can leave workers ill-equipped to compete in a demanding market. 

Prepare thoroughly 

According to Ms. Ly Ngoc Tran, if employees change jobs at the wrong time, they can miss their promotion opportunities at their current company, while they must get used to a new environment and job with an unprecedented salary. Job hopping is a personal decision that should not be taken lightly. Employees need to carefully weigh their options and prepare thoroughly before making a leap, avoiding hopping for jobs solely for pay raise or promotion.