How to Strategise Career Cushioning

Career cushioning refers to the steps taken by employees to secure their careers, often in response to uncertain economic shifts, sudden redundancies, and reduced demand for particular roles. This includes activities such as networking, upskilling, building a personal brand or portfolio, and exploring other job opportunities. All these activities are done while remaining employed in their current position. Career cushioning has become widely popular in recent times because of sudden mass redundancy of employees in large-scale companies, market instability, and the replacement of many jobs by artificial intelligence.

Characteristics of Career Cushioning 

1. Studying the job market: Some employees research current job trends not only to keep them updated but also to remain relevant and in demand in case of involuntary termination.
2. Building portfolios: Employees start saving their work personally as portfolios to show their next employer and let them know their achievements and value.
3. Constructing networks: Employees communicate with experts and professionals in their field or a new field to understand and educate themselves on current and future trends.
4. Changing jobs or careers: Employees who are dissatisfied with their current jobs because they don’t align with their career goals want to explore other opportunities without worrying about a gap in their career.
5. Change in work/life balance: Employees want to give equal importance to their family and work. When their current job does not allow them to give necessary attention to their family, employees tend to quit that job for a job that provides more flexibility and balance.
6. Updating the resume: Employees update their resume and LinkedIn profile with their academic and professional qualifications, skills and work experiences.

Is Career Cushioning Ethical

Career cushioning creates ethical dilemmas if an employee’s career cushioning conflicts with the existing terms of the contract at the current employment. Therefore, always ensure that any side engagements are compliant with the terms of the current employment contract. 

How to manage career cushioning professionally

Employees should not take the decision to cushion their careers lightly. It is essential to consider the current job stability, long-term career goals, and the ability to manage additional commitments. Always maintain professionalism by:

• Avoiding conflict of interest
• Pursuing external activities outside office hours
• Respecting the current employer’s time and resources

How does career cushioning help you psychologically

It helps reduce anxiety or stress related to unexpected changes in the industry or sudden downsizing of companies. By preparing for any future changes in their employment status, employees become resilient and adaptable without jeopardising their overall well-being.

Potential challenges of career cushioning

Career cushioning may be an intriguing strategy to try to find a way in the maze of professions in today’s world. But it comes with its set of risks and rewards. Sometimes this may put more pressure on you as you may need to dedicate more time to exploring career opportunities, which can reduce your time for leisure and family, potentially impacting your physical and mental health. Hence, if you decide to use this strategy, do so with a close eye on long-term objectives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 1. What is career cushioning?

Career cushioning refers to the proactive steps professionals take to secure their future career, especially in times of uncertainty. This includes networking, upskilling, building a personal portfolio, updating CVs, and exploring new job opportunities—all while still employed.

2. Why is career cushioning becoming more popular now?

Due to large-scale layoffs, economic uncertainty, and the growing influence of automation and AI, many professionals are safeguarding their careers by preparing for possible employment disruptions in advance.

3. What activities are involved in career cushioning?

• Networking with professionals and industry experts
• Upskilling through courses or certifications
• Building and maintaining a personal portfolio
• Exploring alternative job roles or industries
• Updating your CV and LinkedIn profile
• Researching job market trends
• Considering flexible jobs for better work-life balance

4. Is career cushioning ethical?

Career cushioning is ethical as long as it does not breach the terms of your current employment contract. It’s important to ensure that side projects or job applications don’t conflict with your employer’s policies or duties at your current job.

5. What are the risks of career cushioning?

• Burnout from managing too many commitments
• Reduced focus on your current job
• Conflict with your current employer if not handled discreetly
• Strain on personal time and relationships