I just finished reading a great book called “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, M.D. The story revolves around four main characters that have four different personalities and it takes place inside a maze. The primary message is whenever the cheese moves you need to be prepared to adapt and overcome the situation in order to succeed and ultimately reach the cheese. Some may call these obstacles but if looked at in a different perspective they can actually be seen as a blessing at work or in your personal life.
After quickly reading the mere 96 pages; I asked myself the question “Why do employers find applicants that jump from job to job undesirable?” The obvious answer is they are a risky investment of time and money. Instead this should influence employers to interview the candidate.
Why? Because the majority of businesses and industries need to anticipate change or be able to adapt to changes rapidly otherwise they are in jeopardy of falling behind the competition. Candidates that moved rapidly from job to job may do so not because of the stereotypical reasons like laziness; they’re not driven or are unmotivated. One of the reasons they move from job to job is because the employment wasn’t stimulating or challenging enough. Granted not everyone will love their job and at times all jobs can be monotonous but some of these “job hoppers” are self-driven and strive to reach their full potential by continuing explore new positions.
By being part of a rapidly changing environment you could find yourself with a first-class employee. While the word “change” is scary to the majority of employees the “cheese movers” enjoy change. They understand change happens, can anticipate change and experienced several of changes so they can adapt rapidly. Their “job hopping” should be looked at as a potential, valued employee that will be flexible and optimistic to your company’s growth.
Now, instead of discarding a resume or application consider taking a second look an interview may be beneficial. Does your business change rapidly? If so; maybe employees with similar traits should be considered.