Too many employment changes in a short time span can give human resources managers cause for concern, according to a survey from Robert Half Technology. HR managers interviewed said an average of five job changes in 10 years can prompt worries the candidate is a job hopper.

Robert Half Technology asked HR managers, "Over a 10-year span, how many job changes, in your opinion, would it take for a professional to be viewed as a job hopper?" The mean response was five.

"The job market has been unpredictable in recent years, and employers understand job candidates may have had short stints in some positions," said Paul McDonald, Robert Half senior executive director. "However, businesses look for people who will be committed to the organization, can contribute to the company, and help it reach its short- and long-term goals. Too much voluntary job hopping can be a red flag."

The survey is based on interviews with more than 300 HR managers at companies with 20 or more employees in the United States.