I think it's a different generation. Companies don't invest in people, people don't stay long term in companies. You can also get big pay jumps early in your ca

I think it's a different generation. Companies don't invest in people, people don't stay long term in companies. You can also get big pay jumps early in your career - spending 2+ years in your first company is just pouring money down the drain. I'm kind of in this position. My first job out of university was a 3 month contract, then I had a 9 month "permanent" position which ended when they closed the office, then two back to back contracts at the same place spanning 12 months, and now another permanent position which I am 6 months into. Before this most recent position I had the most interest of potential employers to date. I suspect you are right in one sense - as you get further into your career the length of time you stay in positions should be longer, or you should move into contracting. I certainly plan on staying at my current position for at least 24 months. But I feel like 5 and 10 year tenures will start to be the exception rather than the norm.