What’s Profession Cushioning? Why You Would possibly Wish to Attempt It in 2024

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 facet 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

Profession cushioning isn’t particular to at least one job discipline 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 yr.

• In January 2024, about 3 million folks misplaced a job or accomplished short-term jobs within the U.S.
• To date in 2024, over 42,000 staff have been laid off, together with greater than 160 tech firms.
• In January 2024, the month-to-month inflation fee 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 knowledge given the variety of people who find themselves “Open to Work” after a layoff or prepared for a profession change.

• Do you’re 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 at all times a good suggestion to refine your experience.
• Are you able to comfortably discover new alternatives? Profession cushioning will be nice, however don’t do it on the threat 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.

Fortunately, there are tons of free assets, like HubSpot Academy, which are obtainable that will help you stage up your skilled talent set.

2. Preserve your LinkedIn and resume up to date.

Even in the event you 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 just lately hit a goal or purpose? 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 after they occur quite than making an attempt to replace issues all of sudden. (Talking from expertise right here.)

That is very true in the event you’re in a bind and must 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, but it surely’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 buddies.

With the appropriate 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 great distance towards making a profession cushion.

4. Begin a enterprise or discover a facet hustle.

Turning into an entrepreneur isn’t simple, however it’s doable in the event you discover one thing you’re obsessed with.

You may take into account turning one among your current hobbies right into a facet hustle. That’s how I turned a candle enterprise proprietor.

Or you could possibly choose up some further work associated to an space or talent you’re all for. Possibly you actually like to put in writing, so that you choose up some freelance hours for one among 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 web 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 trying to change fields or change up your profession path, have at it. Nevertheless, 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

When you ask me, it doesn’t harm 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 probabilities to study 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.