In the block management sector, reviewing CVs can often feel like a game of spotting the red flag. Among the most concerning for employers? A CV that jumps from job to job, raising questions about the candidate’s reliability, commitment, or compatibility. While jumpy CVs can indeed signal potential risks, they often tell a more nuanced story, one that’s worth understanding before dismissing a candidate outright.

Why Do CVs Look Jumpy?

There are many reasons a candidate’s career history may appear fragmented. Here are some common scenarios:

1. Industry Challenges
   The block management sector isn’t without its hurdles. High workloads, demanding clients, and limited resources often lead to burnout or stress. For some professionals, leaving roles that don’t align with their values or mental health needs is a necessary choice.

2. Career Growth
   What may look like job-hopping could actually be a strategic pursuit of growth. Candidates eager to advance their careers might move on when opportunities for progression aren’t available in their current roles.

3. Company Instability
   Restructuring, and company acquisitions are realities in our sector now. A candidate’s employment history may reflect these external factors rather than personal failings.

4. Personal Circumstances
   Life happens. Relocation, family responsibilities, or health issues can necessitate job changes, even for the most dedicated employees.

5. Exploration and Skill Building
   Early in their careers, professionals often experiment to find their niche. A varied CV can reflect a candidate’s journey to discover where their skills and passions align.

Why You Shouldn’t Dismiss Jumpy CVs

While it’s natural to approach such CVs with caution, writing off candidates without digging deeper could mean missing out on excellent talent. Here’s why:

1. Resilience and Adaptability
   Frequent job changes often require resilience, adaptability, and the ability to quickly integrate into new environments—all valuable traits in the fast-paced world of block management.

2. Diverse Experience
   Candidates with varied experiences bring fresh perspectives and a broad skill set, which can add significant value to your team.

3. Self-Awareness
   A history of moving on from roles that didn’t align with their values or goals can demonstrate a candidate’s clarity about what they need to thrive and deliver their best work.

How to Approach Jumpy CVs

If a candidate’s CV raises questions, take a step back and consider these approaches:

Ask the Right Questions
Use the interview to explore their reasons for leaving each role. Ask:
What motivated you to move on from [role/company]?
What were you looking for in your next position?
What did you learn from your experience there?
These questions can uncover valuable insights into their decision-making process and growth.

1. Look for Patterns
   Is there a recurring theme in their job changes, such as seeking more responsibility or leaving toxic workplaces? Identifying patterns can help you assess whether the candidate aligns with your company’s culture and stability.

2. Assess Commitment Moving Forward
   Gauge their long-term goals. Are they seeking stability now? Do their career aspirations align with what your role offers?

3. Consider the Bigger Picture
   Evaluate their skills, achievements, and references. A great track record of performance can outweigh a scattered work history.

Conclusion

Jumpy CVs aren’t always a red flag, sometimes, they’re a reflection of ambition, resilience, or circumstance. By delving deeper, you can uncover the hidden story behind the CV and potentially find a candidate who’s an excellent fit for your team. In the block management sector, where great talent can make all the difference, it’s worth taking the time to see beyond the surface.