As I began writing this text about profession cushioning, I couldn’t assist however marvel … am I a profession cushion-er?
I’ve a facet hustle (shoutout to CKTL Candle Co.). However it 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” for those who lose your job unexpectedly. It’s about being proactive and creating further alternatives for your self within the occasion of a layoff or sudden termination.
This might imply actively networking for potential job alternatives, maintaining your skilled belongings 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 area or occupation. Given the rise of inflation and improve 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 undoubtedly trending this 12 months.
Why Profession Cushioning is Scorching Proper Now
I discussed inflation and layoffs as main explanation why persons are maintaining 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.
- To this point in 2024, over 42,000 workers have been laid off, together with greater than 160 tech firms.
- In January 2024, the month-to-month inflation price for items and providers within the U.S. elevated by 3.1% in comparison with January 2023.
My LinkedIn feed feels fairly reflective of this information 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 choice. Nevertheless, to me, the info means that it won’t be a foul concept to have a Plan B in your again pocket.
Listed here are some issues to contemplate:
- Do you’re feeling glad and safe at work? Lack of job satisfaction is one other massive motive professionals are making different plans.
- Does your skillset want a refresh? Upskilling is a profession cushioning tactic, nevertheless it’s all the time 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 here 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. Abilities 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 awesome marketer evolve with traits and time.
For instance, you couldn’t have instructed me three years in the past that I’d be utilizing AI in my day-to-day workflow. However it’s right here, and it’s a ability I needed to (and needed to) develop.
Fortunately, there are tons of free assets, like HubSpot Academy, which might be obtainable that will help you stage up your skilled ability set.
2. Maintain your LinkedIn and resume up to date.
Even for those who aren’t prepared to use for jobs simply but, usually replace your work historical past as you make new accomplishments at work and in life.
Have you ever lately hit a goal or aim? Did you grasp a brand new ability like we talked about in #1?
Write it down.
I promise, it’s simpler to trace these achievements in your LinkedIn or resume after they occur relatively than making an attempt to replace issues . (Talking from expertise right here.)
That is very true for those who’re in a bind and have to land a brand new job quick.
3. Nurture and broaden your community.
I talked about maintaining your LinkedIn up to date within the final tip, nevertheless it’s a lot greater than only a resume.
LinkedIn is the right place to attach with like-minded folks in your trade or make new skilled mates.
With the correct community, you’ll achieve entry to job listings, networking occasions, and referral sources for brand spanking 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 will not be simple, however it’s doable for those who discover one thing you’re captivated with.
You can think about turning certainly one of your current hobbies right into a facet hustle. That’s how I grew to become a candle enterprise proprietor.
Or you can choose up some further work associated to an space or ability you’re serious about. Perhaps you actually like to put in writing, so that you choose up some freelance hours for certainly one 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 sport. I don’t want any extra competitors 😉
5. Don’t threat your day job.
Like I mentioned, 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, for those who’re already trying to change fields or change up your profession path, have at it. Nevertheless, the important thing to profession cushioning is to offer 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
If you happen to ask me, it doesn’t harm to discover new issues and maintain your choices open.
To reply the query about whether or not I think about 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 all the time searching for possibilities to be taught new issues and develop as an individual.
And if that’s how you’re feeling too, then I say it doesn’t harm so as to add a bit of cushion.
