Christopher Harris, a business expert at Calculating.com, says hiring teams are paying more attention to patterns, not just titles or speed of movement. 

In the recent dynamic labour market, he says, certain career choices now point to fear rather than direction.

Speaking with recruiters while reviewing Harris’ comments, the perspectives aligned. Just movement can’t impress them anymore. What is important is whether a person appears settled, clear, and deliberate.

Below are six career moves Harris says now raise doubts instead of confidence. The reality is already seen in hiring sessions.

Six career moves recruiters now question

1. Changing jobs every few months
   Short stints used to pass as ambition. Now they usually trigger concerns about what will happen if they take you in. Recruiters want evidence of follow-through, not constant exits.

Harris says, “When I see someone with four jobs in two years, I don’t think ‘ambitious’, I think ‘what’s going wrong?’”

2. Jumping across unrelated roles without explanation

Switching careers is not the issue. Silence is. When a CV jumps from one field to another with no clear link, recruiters assume guesswork, not planning.

“Career pivots work when you can articulate the thread that connects them,” Harris explained.

3. Stacking certificates with no proof of use
   Courses and credentials are still important, but only when applied. Multiple certifications earned in quick succession, with no real-world use, now suggest insecurity.

“That comes across as someone trying to make themselves feel more secure by ticking boxes.”

4. Chasing titles instead of responsibility
   A bigger title without broader work no longer grabs attention. Recruiters look at scope, not labels. Repeated senior titles with shrinking duties raise doubts.

In Harris’s words: “If you’ve been a ‘Senior Manager’ at three different companies in 18 months but the scope kept shrinking, that’s ego management, not progression.”

5. Always signalling availability
   Being permanently “open to work” can work against candidates. Recruiters read it as a lack of focus or selectivity.

Harris says that constant availability can actually work against you.

6. Leaving roles badly and making it public
   Public criticism of former employers or dramatic exits is now seen as poor judgment. Recruiters assume the behaviour will repeat.

“All it really shows is poor emotional regulation and an inability to navigate difficult situations professionally.”

What recruiters are actually looking for

Harris says the key test is coherence. Can a candidate explain their choices without sounding defensive or rushed?

He adds: “What recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in 2026 isn’t constant motion. It’s coherence.”

The advice is to slow down, make fewer moves, and be clear about why you made them.

“Movement without direction just looks like panic.”

Empathy has the potential to transform how we interact with one another, fostering a compassionate workplace culture that not only enhances productivity but also promotes overall well-being. The profound impact of empathy on communication is an essential knowledge, so let’s delve into practical tips to cultivate empathy within your workplace.

1. Understanding the Essence of Empathy

Empathy goes beyond sympathy or mere understanding; it involves the ability to step into someone else’s shoes, recognize their emotions, and respond with genuine compassion. By embracing empathy in the workplace, we create an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. This sense of emotional connection lays the foundation for effective collaboration and builds stronger relationships among team members.

2. Enhancing Communication through Empathy

Empathy serves as a powerful catalyst for open and honest communication. When we empathize with others, we actively listen to their perspectives, acknowledge their feelings, and validate their experiences. This empathetic approach fosters trust and psychological safety, allowing team members to freely express their ideas, concerns, and challenges. By actively practicing empathy, we can minimize misunderstandings, resolve conflicts amicably, and create an inclusive space that encourages diverse voices to be heard.

3. Cultivating Empathy in the Workplace

Cultivating empathy requires intentional effort and a commitment to continuous growth. Here are some practical strategies to foster empathy within your workplace:

a) Active Listening: Engage in active listening by focusing on the speaker, maintaining eye contact, and providing verbal and non-verbal cues to show understanding and attentiveness.

b) Perspective-Taking: Encourage employees to step into each other’s shoes by considering different viewpoints and experiences. This helps develop a broader understanding of diverse perspectives and promotes empathy.

c) Emotional Intelligence Training: Offer workshops or training sessions on emotional intelligence to enhance self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills among team members.

d) Recognition and Appreciation: Create a culture of appreciation by acknowledging the efforts and contributions of individuals. Recognize their strengths and provide constructive feedback to foster a supportive and empathetic work environment.

Conclusion

Embracing empathy in the workplace has the power to revolutionize how we communicate and collaborate, ultimately driving better results and nurturing a positive work culture. By actively practicing empathy, organizations can create a safe and inclusive space where employees feel valued, understood, and motivated to give their best. 

As leaders, it is our responsibility to foster a compassionate environment that allows empathy to flourish. By investing in empathy, we pave the way for meaningful connections, stronger relationships, and improved outcomes in the workplace. Let empathy be the cornerstone of your organization, and witness the transformative power it brings to your team and beyond.