I've been at one place a long time - am I a loser? (degree, reputation)

[little elmer]

Generations back, it was a mark of good character to hold a position for a long time (possibly an entire career); but this generation sees each open position as a possibility to better one's salary/career path.

Has the current economic climate brought us back to conservative behavior, or is it still a wise investment in yourself to try to jump to the next lily pad?

[kaykay]

If you're satisfied with it, I would say it probably means you just found an exceptionally good (and stable) place to work! Count it as a blessing!

Sometimes people need to change for any number of good reasons, but a history of "job-hopping" still looks bad on a resume IMO.

[Inoxkeeper]

14 years and counting at my current gig. I plan to ride this horse until I get bucked off!

[rlrl]

for 18 years and even if there was no recession I would still have the same concern you asked about what other people would think of you as a loser. In fact i am excessively concerned as to what others think of that

it's been my experience that younger workers tend to judge others who have been at a job for a longer period of time because they just don't understand what it's like to pay your own bills and live on your own. Also, everyone is different and what works for one person just doesn't work for another

[BoydS]

I've been with the same company for 28 years and have not regetted making that choice. I have been fortunate to have survived a few economical downturns, as its sad to see good friends laid off. In my line of work job shoppers make up quite a bit of the work force. These folks come and go depending on the work load as they are typically the first to go. Some shoppers, however will jump ship for more bucks in a heart beat. When this happens, it is looked down on and they are usually not ever hired back. Especially, if they left without finishing their job and someone else had to take on additional work load. Their reputation catches up with them in the end and no company in town will then hire them.

There are many shoppers that are very skilled and reliable. Those folks demand top dollar, but they do understand that as business declines they're the first ones out the door. They are also overtime hungry and which is benefical to meeting schedules. Poor performers and rule breakers are terminated immediatelly, as they are only given about 2 hour notice. Shoppers are not new to this generation (related to my business), as they have been around for decades.

In my present position, I would not ever consider leaving the company. As long as they will have me, I'll be there.

[killer2021]

It depends how you are at compared to others in the profession. If you are in the top 25% of wage earners for the occupation then I would say you are doing great. If not, then you have room to improve.

Once you have peaked out you probably should start moving to side ventures like a weekend business or something.

[shiphead]

Originally Posted by little elmer

Generations back, it was a mark of good character to hold a position for a long time (possibly an entire career); but this generation sees each open position as a possibility to better one's salary/career path.

Has the current economic climate brought us back to conservative behavior, or is it still a wise investment in yourself to try to jump to the next lily pad?

If its pre-career, i see staying at one job as being a sucker for not looking for better opportunity. If your stuck, your stuck.

[bande1102]

I think it depends on advancement. I think it is risky to stay at the same place for years and not advance/improve your skill set/grow professionally. I've been at my current job for the past 7 years --and very limited advancement (just not possible, no openings, it's always been a struggling company); but during that time I earned my degree (company paid for it), obtained professional certifications and am working on my CPA. I also work a lot of side jobs. Had I not done all of those things, I'd be very worried.

[Huckleberry3911948]

no you are a wise man surrounded by a swarm of frantic fools. the quality held most in contempt in america, fidelity.

[I Am Woman]

I have been at the same job for 30 years now...I am darn good at it and I love the job...I do not consider myself a loser!