Are you looking for a job but worried your resume gives the wrong impression? Have you had a few short-term positions and aren’t sure how to explain them? There are many different reasons for leaving positions, so as long as you can provide a good explanation employers may be more willing to overlook it. Keep reading to learn tips on how to explain job-hopping!
What is “job hopping”?
Job hopping is simply moving around to multiple positions after a short period of time. Depending on how long you have been working can determine whether or not they cut you some slack. Most of the time, you get a “free pass” or two, since we are all understanding that not every job is the right fit.
How to explain job hopping in your cover letter
Chances are, you already know which job changes will cause some concerns for a potential employer, but if not, take a step back and evaluate and pinpoint which might need some explanation. Once you have identified the changes that you should address, directly address them and briefly explain why you moved on. Be sure to never bad-mouth a past employer or boss. If possible, try to make the change as positive as you can, maybe by expressing your desire for growth opportunities, or just expressing your needs changing. We recommend bringing attention to the issue by saying “If you look at my resume, you will see some short-term positions” or “If you look at my resumes, you will see some transitions between companies”. Try to be as direct and clear as possible “I chose to leave ___” or “I was let go from my position ___”. Avoid unclear statements like “We parted ways”. Then, you can redirect to a more generic cover letter, if you are unsure how to write a cover letter, check out our blog.
How to explain job hopping in an interview
First things first, lying is not the thing to do. If you lie eventually your stories will start to cross and ultimately it’s just not a good look for you. However, you really need to make sure that you remember what you put in your cover letter for your explanation BEFORE walking in/ answering for the interview. Try to be as upfront as possible when questioned, you don’t want to make it seem as though you have something to hide. If you don’t know what to say, check out “Good Reasons to Quit Your Job”
Job hopping happens, it’s not the end of the world. You should never stay at a job in which you are unhappy. If you feel like quitting, as long as you do it in a smart, respectful manner, do it. If you are wondering how to quit, check out “How to Quit Your Job”
