It’s hard when a job isn’t what you expected. Should you stay or go? We’re here to help you figure it out.
Knowing When to Leave
If you start a job and want to leave quickly, you’re not alone. Sometimes it's clear a job isn't right from day one. However, how long you stay can impact future job prospects.
Find out how to bounce back from a back job experience
Minimum Time to Stay
Experts suggest staying for at least 6 months. Here’s why:
- 6 months: You're fully past onboarding and working independently.
- Less than 6 months: Short stints can make you seem unreliable to employers.
Considering Your Situation
If the job is temporary, you can leave sooner if this is clear on your resume. If the job or environment isn’t as described, explain this honestly to future employers without being negative.
Should You Include Short-Term Jobs on Your Resume?
It depends:
- Include if significant: If the job relates to your career or adds valuable skills, list it.
- Leave off if not relevant: If it was brief and adds no value, you can skip it.
Gap vs. Short-Term Job
Short-term jobs can raise questions, but so can job gaps. Here’s a guide:
- One short-term job: If you have a solid history, one short job is okay.
- Multiple short-term jobs: This might suggest a pattern and concern employers.
How to Explain Short Employment
If asked about short jobs, focus on lessons learned and fit:
Positive Spin: “I quickly realized this role wasn’t right and am now focusing on positions that match my skills and career goals.”
Updating LinkedIn
When to update your LinkedIn varies:
- Immediately: Shows you’re currently employed.
- Wait: Some wait 3-6 months to ensure stability.
Preparing for Your Next Job
- Polish Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills and experiences.
- Network: Use LinkedIn to connect with industry pros.
- Be Honest: When explaining short jobs, focus on finding a long-term fit.
Moving Forward
It’s okay to leave a job that’s not right, especially for a better opportunity. Just try to stay long enough so future employers don’t see you as unreliable unless it’s completely intolerable.
Remember, careers have twists and turns. How you handle changes and present them is what counts most.
Here are some more tips on navigating short-term jobs and resume gaps: