What is career cushioning?<\/h2>\n
Career cushioning is the practice of exploring alternative career options while still employed. It’s a strategic approach people adopt to navigate uncertainty. It’s a backup plan<\/strong> that helps them maintain a sense of stability in their professional lives.<\/p>\n Career cushioning may involve:<\/p>\n These strategies help people navigate uncertainty and prepare for the future.<\/strong><\/p>\n Career cushioning is not about loyalty (or the lack of it). It’s more about individuals proactively preparing themselves for the future.<\/strong><\/p>\n The current economic landscape fueled this need for a “plan B.” People are preparing for potential challenges and opportunities it brings.<\/p>\n Here are some reasons employees are keeping their options open:<\/p>\n As an employer, you may not have control over macroeconomic factors. But you can play a vital role in creating a work environment that fosters job security. You can start by knowing what employees want<\/a><\/strong> in today’s workplace and meeting them where they are.<\/p>\n Here are five strategies you can implement to support your employees:<\/p>\n It may seem counterintuitive to invest in training during an economic downturn<\/a><\/strong>. Or when people contemplate leaving. But providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling shows commitment to your employees’ growth.<\/p>\n Encourage employees to pursue professional development opportunities. These may include attending industry conferences, registering for webinars, or enrolling in online courses.<\/p>\n Encourage skill development and retain your people For example:<\/p>\n Supporting employees in their professional growth demonstrates your commitment to employee development. It also equips employees with valuable qualifications. It makes them more resilient and adaptable to changes in the job market.<\/strong><\/p>\n Allow employees to explore different roles within your organization. That may mean advancement into a new role. Or it could mean letting them participate in cross-departmental collaboration or job rotation.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Mobility within the company doesn’t only provide opportunities for career growth. It also helps employees diversify their skills and adapt to changing job market demands. It will allow them to explore new career avenues without leaving their current job.<\/p>\n Regularly update your team about the organization’s performance, changes in the industry, and any potential impact on their roles. Knowing you’ll keep them updated can reduce anxiety. It will help employees feel more secure and stable in your organization.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Transparent communication helps employees understand the context behind strategic decisions. It reduces uncertainty about their own job security. And it allows you to build trust.<\/p>\n Create a place where employees feel valued by building a culture of safety and inclusion. Establish communication best practices that help employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns and aspirations.<\/p>\n Make sure they’re heard by supporting policies around diversity and inclusion. Make your office a place where people feel seen, and every voice is valued.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Create security with an environment where people can focus on their work without fearing discrimination or exclusion.<\/p>\n Help employees feel supported by promoting wellness and a healthy work-life balance. Wellbeing efforts may offer flexible work arrangements. They may also include wellness programs and employee assistance initiatives.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Give employees the flexibility and support to manage their personal and professional lives.<\/strong> They’ll experience less stress<\/strong><\/a> and will be more likely to remain committed to their jobs.<\/p>\n\n
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<\/p>\nWhy are employees seeking career cushioning?<\/h2>\n
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How employers can build job security<\/h2>\n
1. Encourage skill development and a culture of continuous learning<\/h3>\n
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2. Facilitate internal mobility<\/h3>\n
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3. Be transparent<\/h3>\n
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4. Foster safety and inclusion<\/h3>\n
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5. Support employee wellbeing<\/h3>\n
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