I’ve always considered myself a dedicated employee. I’ve never not had a job in the last 15 years and have only had five jobs total (two of which I held concurrently). Though I may not have loved all of my jobs equally, I’ve always made the best of my situation. I can honestly say I gave the same amount of effort to my first job in a pizza store as I do to my current professional career.
Not everyone handles employment in the same way I have; in fact, many people jump from job to job on an almost yearly (or more than yearly) basis. I’m not saying this is wrong, but I’ve chosen to take a different path. Here are the benefits I see in sticking with a job.
Benefit #1: More Flexibility
We all need a little flexibility once in a while. When you give an employer time to really get to know you and what your life is all about, I believe they’re more likely to cut you some slack. Small things — from being 15 minutes late because of that accident to needing a day off because your kid is sick — are all easier when you’re seen as a hard-working employee with a proven track record.
We’ve all heard the recommendation that you should spend at least one year in any position. There are exceptions, of course, but I tend to agree with this advice. Though 12 months may seem like a long time, consider the time it takes to really become comfortable with a job (and your co-workers). I have been with my current employer for almost six years now and am still learning things about him — I would assume the same applies in reverse.
Benefit #2: More Money
Though some jobs include a salary with a pay-raise scale built in for every “X” number of years, most positions require you to negotiate your own raises — an incredibly valuable experience. From a financial perspective, an employer is more likely to work with someone who is irreplaceable. That being said, it’s up to you to create your own value. As a dedicated employee it’s easier to pin-point your successes and accomplishments, and prove you’re “one of a kind”.
Benefit #3: You Have an Asset for Future Jobs
I’m not suggesting that you get a job and never leave (though this may work for some people, depending on the field). In fact, I think that most people benefit professionally and personally by pursuing different endeavors over the course of their lives. And there are certain times when quitting a job early on is the right thing to do.
Still, by keeping the list of jobs on your resume relatively short, you show future employers a certain type of dedication. You aren’t the type of person who jumps ship when the going gets tough — you’re a hard worker who is willing to put in her time. Plus, since you did such great work at your previous positions, you’ve got a list of glowing references (people who know you and your strengths well).
My first job at a busy pizza shop taught me more multitasking skills than any position I’ve held since. As a cashier, I learned great communication skills. By working in a pharmacy I learned what I wanted professionally. A stint as a nanny prepared me for motherhood in ways I didn’t expect. Dentistry is a profession I love, am good at, and has given me professional confidence. I truly believe any job can (and will) teach you something if you’re open to it.
And give it enough time.
