Todd Graves, billionaire CEO and co-founder of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, recently shared his perspective on what he considers a red flag when assessing resumes: frequent job-hopping. In an interview with CNBC Make It, Graves, 52, expressed concern over candidates who switch jobs every two to three years, viewing it as an indicator of uncertain motivations and loyalty. “I question that because it makes me wonder, ‘Are you in it just for you?’” Graves said, emphasizing that loyalty and commitment are key traits he seeks in his team members.
With a network of over 800 Raising Cane’s locations across the United States, its territories, and the Middle East, Graves shared that his hiring process goes beyond mere qualifications. He values employees who prioritize teamwork over titles and control. During interviews, he scrutinizes candidates’ answers, looking for signs of insincerity or a lack of genuine commitment. “When they’re more interested in title and control rather than teamwork, it’s a huge red flag for me,” he added.
Hiring Concerns: The Growing Stigma Around Job-Hopping
Job-hopping is increasingly common in today’s market, yet hiring managers like Graves remain cautious. A recent LinkedIn survey revealed that over a third of hiring managers hesitate to consider applicants with a series of short-term positions, as these candidates are often seen as flight risks. Drew McCaskill, a LinkedIn career expert, explained that hiring managers may question the commitment of job-hoppers, wondering if they’ll leave quickly.
Advice for Job Seekers with Short Tenures
Career experts recommend that job-seeking professionals address job-hopping strategically. Rather than listing every short-term role, applicants are encouraged to provide context through a summary section, either on their resume or LinkedIn. When addressing questions, candidates should focus on skills gained, the value they bring to future roles, and avoid a defensive tone.