Johnny C. Taylor Jr. answers workplace questions every week on USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of SHRM, the world’s largest human resources professional organization, and author of Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.
Have a question? Please submit here.
Question: I change jobs every 1-2 years and am worried that I’m being “unhired.” Is this no big deal now or is it a red flag that will damage my career? – Ishaan
Answer: It’s a legitimate concern that your job search could be negative, so set the bar. Just because you change jobs every year or two doesn’t mean you’re automatically unemployable. It’s not how often people move that raises eyebrows, but why they move and how they leave.
There is a difference that too many experts overlook. Quitting a job for a thoughtful and legitimate reason, such as career growth, a better fit, a change in leadership, or a change in life circumstances, is much different than running away in frustration or burning bridges along the way. Employers won’t automatically react negatively to a move, but they will be concerned about a pattern that shows poor judgment, instability, or drama.
Here’s what hiring managers really care about: When you were there, did you get results? Did you handle yourself professionally, especially when you got into a difficult situation? And would your former manager say, “I’d hire them again?” Good performance and reliability are far more important than arbitrary length of stay. If the work is done well and the exit is done respectfully, it becomes much easier to explain short tenure.
That means you have to make your own choices. If the role isn’t a good fit, say so. But don’t blame, complain, or overshare. Explain what you were looking for, what you learned, and how the experience influenced your next action. Growth requires accountability. Excuses never get old.
I’ve personally helped people move on from roles they knew wouldn’t last long, and that’s not failure. Careers today are different than they were 30 years ago. What matters is whether someone showed up, contributed, and managed the transition with integrity. Leaders remember them. And if those boxes are checked, there are plenty of people who will help you later on.
This is where reputation matters. Maintain your relationships. Stay connected with former managers and colleagues. Don’t underestimate how small the industry really is. Resumes open doors, but recommendations and reputations decide who gets through those doors.
After all, changing jobs doesn’t derail your career. Poor judgment. If you consistently deliver value, treat people well, and delegate roles in the right way, your career will be fine. Employers don’t expect lifelong loyalty, but they do expect professionalism, contribution, and accountability.
Careers aren’t determined by movement. It depends on the impression you leave. Make sure your story tells the right story.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
