As I began writing this text about profession cushioning, I couldn’t assist however marvel … am I a profession cushion-er?
I’ve a aspect hustle (shoutout to CKTL Candle Co.). Nevertheless it technically solely “counts” if I’m utilizing that aspect 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 means that you can “cushion the blow” in case you 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, preserving your skilled belongings updated, or beginning a enterprise on the aspect.
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 explanation why persons are preserving 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 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.
Do you have to begin profession cushioning?
That is very a lot a private choice. Nonetheless, to me, the information means that it may not be a foul thought to have a Plan B in your again pocket.
Listed below are some issues to contemplate:
- Do you’re feeling happy and safe at work? Lack of job satisfaction is one other large cause 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 danger of shedding 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 revenue 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. Talent 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.
Positive, the identical advertising and marketing frameworks I discovered whereas finishing my MBA in 2021 should still apply. However the expertise wanted to be an ideal marketer evolve with traits 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. Nevertheless it’s right here, and it’s a ability I needed to (and wished to) develop.
Fortunately, there are tons of free sources, like HubSpot Academy, which might be accessible that can assist you stage up your skilled ability set.
2. Hold your LinkedIn and resume up to date.
Even in case you 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 purpose? 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 once they occur slightly than making an attempt to replace issues unexpectedly. (Talking from expertise right here.)
That is very true in case you’re in a bind and must land a brand new job quick.
3. Nurture and broaden your community.
I talked about preserving 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 associates.
With the appropriate community, you’ll acquire 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 good distance towards making a profession cushion.
4. Begin a enterprise or discover a aspect hustle.
Turning into an entrepreneur is just not straightforward, however it’s doable in case you discover one thing you’re enthusiastic about.
You might think about turning certainly one of your current hobbies right into a aspect hustle. That’s how I grew to become a candle enterprise proprietor.
Or you could possibly decide up some further work associated to an space or ability you’re enthusiastic about. Possibly you actually like to jot down, so that you decide 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 danger your day job.
Like I stated, profession cushioning is an effective way to create a job security web for your self. However the entire level is to create a backup plan IF you want it.
In fact, in case you’re already trying to change fields or change up your profession path, have at it. Nonetheless, the important thing to profession cushioning is to present 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
In case you ask me, it doesn’t damage to discover new issues and preserve 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 aspect hustle, although. I’m all the time on the lookout 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 damage so as to add somewhat cushion.
