How do I address "Job Jumping"?

Question

I have been in Engineering for over 15 years, I am trying to settle down with a company I like, and stay there, however I cant find that company, in the past 5 years I worked for 5 companies, How do I reassure a future Employer I am worth the risk. I specialize in Material Handling, and I am very good at what I do. I have always left on good terms, its not personal its just business. How can I address this in interviews, without scaring opportunities away?

Answer 1

5 companies in 5 years speaks for it self.  I don't know how you could guarantee them you plan on sticking around if another job that pays just a bit more comes a long in a year.  I know as an employer there is not much you could say to convince me you wouldn't leave if something even slightly better came along.

At the same time, if you had the skills the job required and were the best fit you would be considered.  I think more emphasis would be placed on the job you would be doing and if it required long term projects, if it did I would go another direction.

Answer 2

The best answer is the truth.  You are looking for a position which can provide the challenges in your field and allow growth potential, not just for you but also for the company.  The previous companies, while very good, did not offer those opportunities to you and of course, that was not apparent until you were actually employed.  However, you were able to take away with you the experience of each and therefore are a better prospective employee because of it.

Also, hopefully you got letters of reference.

Answer 3

say you were unsure of what you wanted and you finally figured it out