How long should you stay at your first job out of college before moving to a new job?

Question

I just want to know what employers think is enough time to gain experience and skills that another employer will consider you a valuable asset. Here is the thing, I'm working at my 1st job out of college and I don't see myself here forever. How long should I stay here to establish myself as an "experienced" worker?

Answer 1

It all depends on how much you like your job, the company you work for, the opportunities available and your long term goals.

Let's start with the last - first - goals: What are your long term goals - I mean really long term goals as in marriage, furthering your education, children, etc.etc. For example, your job may be dead end, but the benefits and retirement are good enough and you really want to work in a mindless job so you can concentrate on raising your family.

OK but let's answer your question properly. I would say 2 - 3 years is about what you'd need to be "experienced" in your field. The first year - you're just learning the names of your coworkers and the seasonal cycle of your business. The second and third years are when you can really make your mark - proposing things that might make the seasonal cycle turn more smoothly, etc. which of course - affects the bottom line.

But first - make sure this job or field, for that matter, meshes with your long term goals.

Answer 2

I'm currently in a similar situation...it's been 2 years since I finished college and have been at this job for about a year and three quarters. I don't plan on staying here long either, in fact I feel like my skills are being wasted and I don't want to be stuck, but I figure I'll be here a little longer than 2 years? It IS steady money and experience but I feel if I stay longer I'll be wasting time by not improving myself as a worker.

So maybe 2-3 years....5 if you don't mind the job and can stick it out. But don't stop looking and don't hesitate to apply every now and then.

Answer 3

I currently work in recruiting for a company in the recruiting industry, and based on my experience, I recommend trying to stay at your first post-grad job for at least one year. Most employers don't expect new grads to stay at their first job for very long, and most reasonable employers certainly would not be turned off by seeing that on your resume.

Additionally, new grads are in-demand right now, and many employers would be eager to get their hands on a candidate who's still fresh, but has gained a little real-world experience. Just don't expect them to view you as more than 'entry-level,' as it generally takes a few years to shed that classification.

The most important thing is not to job-hop, so before you move to a new position, really think about if it's going to be a better situation for you--one that you can see yourself in for minimum 2-3 years. When your resume begins filling with short-term placements (especially after graduation, when you're expected to have matured enough to stick it out in the professional world), recruiters and hiring manager begin to question your willingness to commit long-term.

Good luck!

Answer 4

As you gain experience you become more valuable to the employer. Before moving on I suggest you visit with your boss and seek a raise, or other compensation.
In my opinion employees who show longevity, and loyalty are worth keeping, and it shows on your work history. I would only consider changing jobs if there was no room for advancement, and you are topped out on the wage scale for several years. OR if working in a hostile or harassing environment.

Answer 5

I believe that usually one to two years is satisfactory and looks good on a resume seeing as how it is your first job out of college.

Good luck!

Will you answer my question? I'm on pins and needles here:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Akj1OYymwUxzPgIuAOanxGvsy6IX?qid=20070830074712AAQsxMv

Answer 6

I stayed a year until I found something better.

Answer 7

as soon as you get hired. keep sending applications and going to interviews as you sell your soul to the money god.