As I began writing this text about profession cushioning, I couldn’t assist however surprise … am I a profession cushion-er?
I’ve a facet hustle (shoutout to CKTL Candle Co.). But it surely technically solely “counts” if I’m utilizing that facet hustle as a way of safety in case I lose my day job as HubSpot’s Advertising Weblog Editor.
That’s what the idea of profession cushioning is all about — and lots of people are doing it in 2024.
Desk of Contents
So, what precisely is profession cushioning?
Profession cushioning lets you “cushion the blow” if you happen to lose your job unexpectedly. It’s about being proactive and creating extra alternatives for your self within the occasion of a layoff or sudden termination.
This might imply actively networking for potential job alternatives, conserving your skilled property updated, or beginning a enterprise on the facet.
Consider it like, “Hey, simply in case this job or profession doesn’t work out, I’m going to have a backup.”
And, in some instances, a number of.
Who’s doing it?
Profession cushioning isn’t particular to at least one job discipline or occupation. Given the rise of inflation and enhance in layoffs throughout industries, professionals in any respect ranges are justifiably nervous about job safety.
And whereas the idea of profession cushioning isn’t model new, it’s positively trending this yr.
Why Profession Cushioning is Sizzling Proper Now
I discussed inflation and layoffs as main the reason why persons are conserving their profession choices open.
Let’s take a look at a number of the stats:
- In January 2024, about 3 million folks misplaced a job or accomplished momentary jobs within the U.S.
- Up to now in 2024, over 42,000 workers have been laid off, together with greater than 160 tech corporations.
- In January 2024, the month-to-month inflation fee for items and companies within the U.S. elevated by 3.1% in comparison with January 2023.
My LinkedIn feed feels fairly reflective of this knowledge given the variety of people who find themselves “Open to Work” after a layoff or prepared for a profession change.
Must you begin profession cushioning?
That is very a lot a private resolution. Nevertheless, to me, the information means that it won’t be a nasty thought to have a Plan B in your again pocket.
Listed below are some issues to think about:
- Do you’re feeling happy and safe at work? Lack of job satisfaction is one other large purpose professionals are making different plans.
- Does your skillset want a refresh? Upskilling is a profession cushioning tactic, but it surely’s at all times a good suggestion to refine your experience.
- Are you able to comfortably discover new alternatives? Profession cushioning may be nice, however don’t do it on the threat of dropping your present job.
My take? I began my candle enterprise for enjoyable again in 2020. However, TBH, it’s good to know I’d nonetheless have a supply of earnings if I misplaced my job tomorrow.
Easy methods to Cushion Your Personal Profession
Listed below are 5 methods to do profession cushioning proper in 2024.
1. Ability up in each new and current areas.
That is nice recommendation whether or not you’re profession cushioning or not. Expertise are supposed to be cultivated.
Certain, the identical advertising frameworks I discovered whereas finishing my MBA in 2021 should apply. However the expertise wanted to be an important marketer evolve with developments and time.
For instance, you couldn’t have informed me three years in the past that I’d be utilizing AI in my day-to-day workflow. But it surely’s right here, and it’s a talent I needed to (and needed to) develop.
Fortunately, there are tons of free assets, like HubSpot Academy, which are obtainable that will help you degree up your skilled talent set.
2. Hold your LinkedIn and resume up to date.
Even if you happen to aren’t prepared to use for jobs simply but, commonly replace your work historical past as you make new accomplishments at work and in life.
Have you ever just lately hit a goal or aim? Did you grasp a brand new talent like we talked about in #1?
Write it down.
I promise, it’s simpler to trace these achievements in your LinkedIn or resume once they occur moderately than making an attempt to replace issues all of sudden. (Talking from expertise right here.)
That is very true if you happen to’re in a bind and must land a brand new job quick.
3. Nurture and increase your community.
I talked about conserving your LinkedIn up to date within the final tip, but it surely’s a lot greater than only a resume.
LinkedIn is the proper place to attach with like-minded folks in your trade or make new skilled buddies.
With the best community, you’ll achieve entry to job listings, networking occasions, and referral sources for brand new alternatives.
Placing your self on the market and selling your model can go a great distance towards making a profession cushion.
4. Begin a enterprise or discover a facet hustle.
Changing into an entrepreneur just isn’t simple, however it’s doable if you happen to discover one thing you’re keen about.
You would take into account turning one in every of your current hobbies right into a facet hustle. That’s how I turned a candle enterprise proprietor.
Or you can choose up some further work associated to an space or talent you’re fascinated about. Possibly you actually like to put in writing, so that you choose up some freelance hours for one in every of your favourite weblog websites.
Who is aware of, you could possibly flip that hustle right into a full-time gig.
No matter you select, simply don’t get into the candle recreation. I don’t want any extra competitors 😉
5. Don’t threat your day job.
Like I stated, profession cushioning is an effective way to create a job security internet for your self. However the entire level is to create a backup plan IF you want it.
In fact, if you happen to’re already seeking to change fields or swap up your profession path, have at it. Nevertheless, the important thing to profession cushioning is to provide your self choices within the occasion you lose your job.
Don’t unintentionally make {that a} actuality by including an excessive amount of to your plate or neglecting your present employer.
In different phrases, “if it ain’t broke, don’t repair it.” Simply cushion it.
The Backside Line
For those who ask me, it doesn’t damage to discover new issues and hold your choices open.
To reply the query about whether or not I take into account myself a profession cushion-er, I’m going to go together with … sure.
It’s about extra than simply my facet hustle, although. I’m at all times in search of possibilities to study new issues and develop as an individual.
And if that’s how you’re feeling too, then I say it doesn’t damage so as to add somewhat cushion.
