Job-hopping perception has evolved in India — while older generations viewed any tenure under 2 years negatively, today's market is more forgiving of a single short stint. However, context and pattern matter enormously.
When switching after 6 months is acceptable: The role was significantly misrepresented from what was promised, the work environment is toxic or unethical, you received a dramatically better opportunity (30%+ growth in role/salary), company is facing financial distress or layoffs, relocation requirements changed, or the role has zero growth prospects. In these cases, leaving is a rational career decision.
When you should stay: You're facing normal job challenges (steep learning curve, difficult colleagues, challenging projects), you haven't given the role enough time to show results, you're leaving only for a marginal salary bump (10-15%), or you already have one or more short stints on your resume — adding another creates a pattern.
How to handle it on your resume and in interviews: Include the short stint on your resume (gaps look worse than short tenures). Frame it positively: 'I joined for [reason], but discovered the role was significantly different from what was discussed. I'm now seeking [what you're looking for] where I can make a meaningful long-term contribution.' This shows self-awareness without badmouthing. Commit to staying at your next role for at least 2 years to break any potential job-hopping narrative.
The math of job-hopping in India: While a single short stint barely impacts your career, a pattern of 3+ roles under 18 months can reduce your callback rate by 40-50%. Indian recruiters specifically flag this in ATS screening. The market values loyalty alongside mobility — show both on your resume.