Careers advice

How long should you stay in your first job?

Where’s the sweet spot?

What you’ll learn

How long should you stay in your first job? What to think about

1. You need to gain experience

You'll get heaps of valuable experience from your first job.

2. Hiring managers and recruiters look at tenures

3. You don’t want to burn bridges

When should you leave your job after less than one year?

1. You took a job you’re overqualified for

If you find you're overqualified for the role, you may want to consider leaving earlier.

2. You’re being mistreated

3. You’ve been offered a great job

How to get more out of your first job

Why you shouldn’t get too cosy in your first job

Leaving your first job without burning bridges

1. Check your employment agreement

2. Tell your boss first

If you're planning to leave, give your boss a heads up before handing in your formal notice.

3. Resign with class

4. Be prepared for a counteroffer

5. Keep working hard

Discussing leaving your job after less than a year in an interview