Pierre-Jean from Leeds has spent most of his career with one company and is concerned that his long service might be viewed negatively by recruiters. He asks Jobs Guru James Innes for advice on whether this loyalty could count against him and how to address it.
Long Service Can Be a Double-Edged Sword
James Innes confirms that, yes, long service can work against you, but not always for the reasons people assume. While loyalty is valued by sensible recruiters, the risk is that a CV may suggest stagnation. Recruiters may wonder if you can only operate in one environment, have become too accustomed to one culture, or would struggle to transition to a new organisation.
Show Progression, Not Stagnation
Innes emphasises that the key is how you present your tenure on your CV. He recommends highlighting what changed during your time at the company: new responsibilities, bigger projects, wider influence, and tougher problems. This demonstrates that you were continually progressing and moving forward, not just treading water.
“If you have been with one employer for many years, it is vital to show growth. Make it clear that your role developed, your responsibilities grew, and you didn’t simply sit in the same chair enjoying the status quo,” says Innes.
Address Recruiter Concerns Head-On
Some employers get suspicious of ‘lifers’ – people who have spent most of their career in one place. They may imagine someone set in their ways, resistant to change, and unable to adapt to a new system with different personalities and politics. Innes advises not leaving them to guess: if your long service included change, progression, pressure, and wider responsibility, make that obvious, even more than obvious.
“Otherwise they may glance at the dates, make up their minds in a split second, and move on to the next candidate before you have had even half a chance,” he warns.
Brainstorm Compelling Material
To tackle these concerns, Innes suggests brainstorming for compelling material that demonstrates growth. This could include promotions, new skills, leadership roles, or successful projects. The goal is to paint a picture of a dynamic career, not a static one.
The advice comes from James Innes, a best-selling careers author and founder of a leading group of professional CV writers. His latest book, The Job You’ve Always Wanted, is available from Pearson at £16.99.
