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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 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 lets you “cushion the blow” in the event 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, protecting 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 discipline or occupation. 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 undoubtedly trending this yr.
Why Profession Cushioning is Sizzling Proper Now
I discussed inflation and layoffs as major the explanation why individuals are protecting their profession choices open.
Let’s take a look at a number of 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 firms.
- In January 2024, the month-to-month inflation price 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 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 determination. Nonetheless, to me, the info means that it won’t be a nasty 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 huge motive 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 could 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.
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. Expertise are supposed to be cultivated.
Certain, the identical advertising and marketing frameworks I realized whereas finishing my MBA in 2021 should apply. However the expertise wanted to be an ideal marketer evolve with developments 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 talent I needed to (and needed to) develop.
Fortunately, there are tons of free assets, like HubSpot Academy, which can be out there that will help you stage up your skilled talent set.
2. Hold your LinkedIn and resume up to date.
Even in the event you aren’t prepared to use for jobs simply but, often 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 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 slightly than attempting to replace issues abruptly. (Talking from expertise right here.)
That is very true in the event you’re in a bind and have to land a brand new job quick.
3. Nurture and increase your community.
I talked about protecting 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 individuals in your business 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.
Becoming an entrepreneur shouldn’t be simple, however it’s doable in the event you discover one thing you’re captivated with.
You may think about turning one in all 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 additional work associated to an space or talent you’re occupied with. Perhaps you actually like to put in writing, so that you choose up some freelance hours for one in all your favourite weblog websites.
Who is aware of, you could possibly turn that hustle 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 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, in the event you’re already seeking to change fields or swap 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 fix it.” Simply cushion it.
The Backside Line
In the event you ask me, it doesn’t damage 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 along with … sure.
It’s about extra than simply my facet hustle, although. I’m all the time searching for probabilities 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 slightly cushion.
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