ACT CEO warns Gen Z: Job-hopping may backfire
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — Janet Godwin, CEO of college-readiness test company ACT, has spent her entire 35-year career at one organization, a rarity in today’s workforce.
Starting in 1990 as a test question writer, Godwin steadily climbed the ranks, eventually becoming CEO in 2020. Her journey mirrors that of other notable leaders like General Motors’ Mary Barra and Walmart’s Doug McMillon, who also built their careers within a single company.
“I came in thinking I’d be here for a couple of years, and here I am, 35 years later,” Godwin told Fortune.
She credits her longevity to a focus on learning and growing within her current role, rather than constantly seeking the next opportunity.
“You need to learn and mature in your current job before you have your eyes set on something else.”
Gen Z’s job-hopping trend
Unlike Godwin’s generation, many Gen Z workers believe frequent job changes are the best way to secure raises and promotions.
In fact, 56% of Gen Zers find it acceptable to switch jobs every two to three years. This shift is driven by rising living costs, stagnant wages, and slower career progression as older workers stay in their roles longer.
However, Godwin warns that this approach could backfire. Recalling advice from her early career, she said, “If you’re so busy thinking about what you’re going to do next, I guarantee you you’re not putting enough energy and time into what you’re doing today.”
She believes that focusing on the present and mastering current responsibilities is key to long-term success.
The value of patience and curiosity
Godwin’s own path was shaped by curiosity and a willingness to take on new challenges within ACT. She rotated through different roles every few years, gaining experience across departments, a strategy that proved invaluable when she led the company through the COVID-19 crisis.
“Don’t be afraid to learn new things, and don’t be too rigid on what your path is,” she advised. “Because if you think you know where you’re going to be 10 years from now, you probably don’t.”
Other business leaders echo her message. Cisco U.K. CEO Sarah Walker urges young professionals to be patient: “You just need to be patient in the journey.”
Walmart’s Doug McMillon adds, “The next job doesn’t come if you don’t do the one you’ve got well.”
Climbing the ladder, one step at a time
Godwin’s story highlights the benefits of investing time and energy into one’s current role. “There’s some truth to maturing with what you have, and not just constantly grasping for the next thing on the ladder,” she said.
For Gen Z, her advice is clear: don’t underestimate the power of patience, curiosity, and commitment in building a lasting and successful career.
