How often should you change job in Dubai?

Do companies in Dubai think twice before hiring job hoppers? 

How long should you continue at one job? A random survey in a room would reveal anywhere between two and four years as the ideal time to stick on to a job. Not too short or too long, this time span seems perfect to learn about your new job, brush up your skill sets and get ready for the next jump. 
But contrary to the industry norm, youngsters between the age of 25 and 30 (extending till 35) are switching their jobs frequently and job-hopping is a normal coffee table conversation. 

Acknowledging the trend, Elena Agaragimova, Careers & Alumni Relations Consultant, Middle East Centre, The University of Manchester says, "The younger generation (under 30) is entering the workforce with different motivations and expectations. Unlike previous generations, who viewed work primarily as a source of income and a way to support their family, this new generation is looking to be more creative and belong to a culture of change, producing inspiring new ideas and services."   
Better opportunities, pressure among peers to get the next big leap, the right fit, the right package are all buzz words that you hear among the younger lot. 
"It is important to be always in the job market to stay competitive and smell the next break. Jumping jobs ensured that I reach my salary goal sooner than my graduate friends. And I have made some valuable connections in the three jobs I have held in the past years," says Michael Thomas, a 29-year-old PR professional. 

Sivaramakrishnan, 28-year-old accounts professional, arrived in Dubai a couple of months back to take up a new job. Putting forth his perspective, he says, "Beyond just salary and job profile, I feel strongly about the need to fit into the company's culture. I think we are looking to work with companies that would be willing to invest in our growth, both professionally and personally. Also, a job that offers flexibility in terms of work and life balance." 

What companies think?

While career experts recommend clinging to a job for 2-3 years, it depends on the individual's career needs, experience, economic background, and career progression. 
Older traditional recruiters, looking for career continuity, might consider twice before giving job hoppers an interview call but new-age companies are seeing them as an important resource. 
A headhunter in the media space, on condition of anonymity, says that although companies might be wary of hiring job hoppers, they are an important source as they have a larger pool of contacts and varied experience. "Having worked in multiple organisations with different teams, they develop a positive outlook about teamwork."
Overall, experts agree that the time you spend at one job doesn't matter but what counts is the experience and attitude you picked up while being there. 

'Why should you do something you don't love?'  

Jay Shetty, urban monk and motivational speaker, told Khaleej Times, "Youngsters have too many options and don't want to settle anymore. For our parents, it was primarily about survival. With more opportunities and exposure to education, we have an ability to not do that. We don't have to settle early. We have the flexibility to sit back for two years, get it wrong and begin again."  
"The other thing is that we want meaningful careers. I don't like that young people are judged for the careers they choose. Why should you do something you don't love? I don't think we should feel guilty for wanting more out of our lives and chasing meaningful challenges."

5 questions to answer before changing a job:

Elena Agaragimova suggests youngsters considering a job change should answer five important questions:  
1. Does the new company require me to stay for a particular length of time? 
2. Does it offer continuous professional development and business exposure? 
3. Have I reached a plateau with my current role/company? 
4. Will it take further business education for another 2-3 years to move the career along?
5. When can I expect significantly better rewards that justify the time, effort and risk of changing jobs?   
- anita@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai