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.). But it surely technically solely “counts” if I’m utilizing that side hustle as a way of safety in case I lose my day job as HubSpot’s Advertising and marketing 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 permits you to “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, 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 area or career. Given the rise of inflation and increase 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 Scorching Proper Now
I discussed inflation and layoffs as major the explanation why persons are conserving their profession choices open.
Let’s take a look at among the stats:
- In January 2024, about 3 million individuals misplaced a job or accomplished non permanent jobs within the U.S.
- So far 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 charge 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 determination. Nonetheless, to me, the info means that it won’t be a nasty thought to have a Plan B in your again pocket.
Listed here are some issues to think about:
- Do you are feeling happy and safe at work? Lack of job satisfaction is one other massive purpose professionals are making different plans.
- Does your skillset want a refresh? Upskilling is a profession cushioning tactic, but it surely’s all the time a good suggestion to refine your experience.
- Are you able to comfortably discover new alternatives? Profession cushioning might be nice, however don’t do it on the danger 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.
The best way to Cushion Your Personal Profession
Listed here are 5 methods to do profession cushioning proper in 2024.
1. Talent up in each new and present 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 incredible marketer evolve with traits and time.
For instance, you couldn’t have advised 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 ability I needed to (and needed to) develop.
Fortunately, there are tons of free assets, like HubSpot Academy, which are out there that can assist you degree up your skilled ability set.
2. Preserve 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 once they occur moderately than attempting to replace issues suddenly. (Talking from expertise right here.)
That is very true for those who’re in a bind and must land a brand new job quick.
3. Nurture and develop 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 right place to attach with like-minded individuals in your trade or make new skilled associates.
With the precise community, you’ll acquire 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 good distance towards making a profession cushion.
4. Begin a enterprise or discover a facet hustle.
Becoming an entrepreneur is just not simple, however it’s doable for those who discover one thing you’re enthusiastic about.
You may think about turning considered one of your present hobbies right into a facet hustle. That’s how I grew to become a candle enterprise proprietor.
Or you would choose up some additional work associated to an space or ability you’re fascinated with. Perhaps you actually like to put in writing, so that you choose up some freelance hours for considered one of your favourite weblog websites.
Who is aware of, you might be able to turn that hustle 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 danger your day job.
Like I mentioned, 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.
After all, for those who’re already seeking to change fields or change up your profession path, have at it. Nonetheless, 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 fix it.” Simply cushion it.
The Backside Line
In case you ask me, it doesn’t damage to discover new issues and hold 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 in search of probabilities to be taught new issues and develop as an individual.
And if that’s how you are feeling too, then I say it doesn’t damage so as to add a bit cushion.
