Does it matter how long you've stayed at your first job?

Question

I'm only working part-time (full-time student) and I'm planning to quit in another six months (making ten months in total for first job). I'm already looking into other jobs and possibly internships for when that time comes around. Anyway, does it even matter how long you've stayed ... especially when you just work part-time? I guess your performance means more, right?

Answer 1

As long as you've done a good job, they won't care how long you've been working at a particular job in school, as long as you measure in months, not weeks! 3-6 months to cover a semester or school year is common. 10 months in a job is good.
Just bring what you've learned there to the table when you're interviewing later, and discuss why it was important for you to work while in school (wanted to have sales experience, gain skills in the workplace, tell them what you learned, and you needed money while in school and learned to balance them both, etc)
Good start for you. Good luck in your future!

Answer 2

I stayed at my first company for 3 years before moving on. In that time, I had two different positions. This was in 2002. I think most people only stay at their jobs for 2-4 years, whether it's their first job or not. My husband has been at his first job though for 6 years, so you never know.

Answer 3

If the move is a lateral one, to a job that doesn't apply to your field of study, then as an employer I would be weary. As said in a previous posting, a short stay at a job can indicate a lack of commitment.

But, If the move is to an internship, then I would definitely go for it. Relevant work experience is key to setting you apart form others in the future and would likely override concerns about leaving your current job early. Good luck.

Answer 4

One who works part time when he is a full time student shows character which employers should consider when hiring for a position. How well you performed the part time job is more important . The good reference should be an asset in your search.

Answer 5

Having a fairly short time at a part time job while you are a student isn't going to hurt you. Good luck at finding a good internship....

Answer 6

I agree with the post above, with the exception that it won't help u, either.
I very seldom hire someone who has not worked at their former job for a year. fact of the matter is, it reflects their work ethic, even if part time and a student.
I am very, very successful at hiring people, after finally taking this issue into serious consideration.
good luck!!

Answer 7

Just make sure you have that job or internship before you quit. I made the mistake of quitting without having anything lined up.

Answer 8

You'll be fine. Since you're still a student, they'll expect to see short dates.