Skip to main content
Career & Salary

Five Years, Three Years, Two Years—The Rhythm of Your First Decade

A senior coach's view: "how long should I stay?" doesn't have one answer. The optimal duration shifts across your first three jobs—here's why.

Offery TeamUpdated April 30, 20266 min read

The English translation for this article is being prepared. The Traditional Chinese version is available now—switch the site language from the top-right menu.

What this article covers:

  • First job: 4-6 years for foundation (rules, depth, network, habits)
  • Second job: 3-4 years for validation and deepening
  • Third job: 2-3 years for showcase and intentional stretch
  • Three common rhythm mistakes: leaving too fast, staying too long, perfectly even hops
  • When to break the rhythm—and when not to

Keep reading