Here's how switching jobs can really cost you

Are things starting to feel stale at the office? Feeling unfulfilled in your work and daydreaming about different companies? According to Gallup, 51 percent of currently employed Americans are considering a new job. But before you send in your two weeks' — or even call a recruiter — you should weigh the downside of leaving that desk. They may surprise you.

(Photo Credit: sacks08/Flickr)

That same Gallup study notes that job-hopping does indeed have its merits: employees can sharpen their skills, be exposed to new opportunities, and certainly expand their network. Then, there's the fact that job hopping is sometimes the best way to get a higher salary.

With all those upsides, there has to be a downside, right? Otherwise, millennials would be the job-hoppers they're rumored to be, instead of staying at their jobs longer than previous generations.

Switching jobs is not without cost. Before you contemplate a change, consider:

You Can Lose Out on Time Off

As the investment site The Motley Fool is quick to point out, there's the practical loss of vacation time. Paid time off, sick leave, and even unlimited unpaid vacation can be serious benefits — especially in lieu of a higher salary. So make sure when you're talking to new potential employers you're aware of their benefits, not just the change in salary or role.

It Hurts Your Interview Answers

You might not like hearing this, but after enough times hopping around, employers start to get a little suspicious of your loyalties. Ryan Kahn, founder of The Hired Group, tellsForbes, "When jumping from job to job you are showing future employers that there is a high likelihood that you will do the same to them."

The fact of the matter is, employers look at how long you've stayed at each of your past jobs. If you're asking them to invest in you, you better have a good answer for how you're planning to invest in them.

You'll Be of Less Value to Your New Employer

Speaking of loyalty — when you can prove it, it goes a long way. And that's exactly why you may have cause to stick with your current employer a little bit longer. If you don't believe me, just ask Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya, who is handsomely rewarding his full-time employees. This week, he announced that he plans to distribute 10 percent of the ownership stake of the company to employees — which will gain value in the event that the yogurt maker goes public.

The catch? The longer an employee's been there, the higher their portion of the stake.

Related: The best jobs for a health work-life balance

Tell Us What You Think

Is job hopping a worthwhile practice? Are millennials to eager to move on? How has it worked out for you? Share your thoughts, stories, and strong opinions in the comments below, or join the conversation on Twitter!

More on AOL
Lying about your salary is a bad idea, so here's what to do instead
The best way to manage debt while unemployed
5 Slack add-ons to entertain you at work