Explaining Career Jumps

Q: I have had my current job for three years. It has been great but I'm itching to move again. How do I handle comments about having too many positions within a career? G.J., Calgary

A: You will have to explain your career history. Fortunately, we live in a fluid career world. Most professionals now work for an average of 10 or more companies during their careers. For a very visual example, look at the movement of professional athletes now compared with 10 years ago.

If you are called for an interview, you will have to get your story straight. You need to explain in clear and concise terms what happened and why.

When they ask about career history, employers really want to know if you are committed for a reasonable length of time -- not if you going to stay till you retire. Every good employer wants you to keep growing, but it would be ideal to pursue growth within the organization.

You are correct that you cannot keep jumping so much. You need to take the long view and only accept opportunities that give you something for the present and the medium term -- three to five years.

You could also investigate typical career paths that others have followed within the organization in the past.