Let’s discuss one of today’s most anxiety-inducing topics: job insecurity. It’s no secret that employment looks far different today than it has in years past, and it continues to change by the day. Between workforce trends like the “Great Shrinking,” economic uncertainty, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), and a host of other factors, it’s no wonder many of us feel a rising sense of instability and uncertainty in our careers. It’s true what they say: the only constant is change, so knowing how to adapt and prepare ourselves for any situation in our career paths is the best we can do. Enter the strategy that can help you do just that: Career cushioning. Ahead, I’m breaking down what career cushioning is, why it’s essential, and a few fun ways you can practice it so you’re always prepared for what’s next.
What is career cushioning?
“Career cushioning” is a workforce term used to describe the practice of creating a professional and financial safety net. This is done through upskilling, staying vigilant for job opportunities, and expanding your professional network, all while still employed. Career cushioning includes activities like:
- Regularly updating your resume and LinkedIn profile, so you’re always ready to apply for new opportunities with no lag time.
- Engaging in intentional networking through coffee chats, meetups, and more.
- Pursuing new skills or certifications after hours.
- Exploring freelance or side projects for extra income and potential business building down the road.
- Keeping an eye out for open roles—even if you love your job!
The point? Well, in case you lose your job unexpectedly, you can “cushion the blow” by having additional opportunities lined up to prevent career setbacks or long-term unemployment. If you suddenly lose your job (or things look shaky), the steps you’ve taken serve as a soft landing.
Having a backup plan for your job is not a novel idea. The concept of “career cushioning” predates the term itself, which started circulating on the internet in 2022 and 2023. Career cushioning has always been important, but it’s almost non-negotiable today given the pace of change sweeping through the workforce.
Why career cushioning is essential in today’s job market
For many, job security feels like a luxury in today’s world. The idea behind “career cushioning” surged after the pandemic, and unfortunately, changes of all kinds have continued since then. Even stable-looking roles can change in an instant.
Not to mention that layoffs are no longer confined to struggling businesses. Layoffs in the U.S. reached their highest level since the early months of the pandemic in July 2025, pushing the total number of layoffs for the year so far to over 800,000, according to Newsweek. The reasons for cutting teams vary from organization to organization. Technological changes, cost-cutting measures, corporate restructuring, and lack of funding are a few cited causes, but despite the reasons, companies across industries and sectors are feeling the effects.
Apart from layoffs, job dissatisfaction and workplace burnout remain widespread problems for employees. And while burnout can be temporary or fixable through honest conversations with your boss, sometimes changing companies or lines of work altogether is your next best move (and career cushioning can help with that).
“Career cushioning is a strategic power move for those who want to stay ahead, confident, and in control, no matter what the job market brings.”
Beyond the obvious financial protection, it also gives you peace of mind. Career cushioning is a strategic power move for those who want to stay ahead, confident, and in control, no matter what the job market brings.
How to implement career cushioning
Admittedly, doing these “extra” activities can feel like adding even more to your already full plate. But career cushioning doesn’t have to feel like extra work. You can implement career cushioning in creative, fun ways. Here are a few ideas:
Set up a monthly skill-bartering night with your friends
One of the easiest ways to upskill (and have fun doing it) is by learning from those around you (especially those you already spend time with). Try scheduling a monthly skill-bartering night and hangout sesh with your friends. Maybe one of your friends is an expert in project management, and another knows the ins and outs of social media marketing. Have each friend take the “hot seat” for one night and teach the rest of the group foundational skills. And you don’t have to focus only on your day-job skills. If your friends are expert hobbyists or knowledgeable about a topic or area you’re interested in, ask them about it!
Teaching and trading skills with your friends is free, strengthens your connections, and expands your skills. Bonus points if you’re able to squeeze in dinner or drinks afterward for a well-rounded night of learning and catching up.
Build a low-stakes side project
While career cushioning is an ongoing process, there are many small actions you can take that don’t require a significant amount of time. For example, you could launch a small blog, podcast, or creative project around your area of expertise or passion. Or you could sell vintage finds online. You can start a low-stakes side project during a coffee shop run or two, meaning all you need is an idea and a couple of hours to make progress.
Low-stakes side projects are a great way to show initiative, increase your visibility, and provide you with full autonomy over the output (something we sometimes lack in our day jobs). You can add your side project to your resume, and depending on where you take it, it could even open the door to freelance opportunities, guest podcast appearances, social media features, and more. It also diversifies your experiences outside of specialty areas.
Host or schedule a “resume and rosé” night
OK, you don’t have to drink rosé (but the name is fun, right?). On a “resume and rosé” night, sit down, light your favorite candle, grab your favorite beverage, and update your resume. (Bonus points if you also review and update your LinkedIn profile!) Schedule it as if it’s a date with yourself and make it as enjoyable as possible—because we all know sometimes these tasks aren’t all that fun. You can even schedule this night with your bestie or spouse for some built-in accountability and added resume feedback.
Commit to bite-sized learning opportunities
Leveling up doesn’t always mean heading back to school to earn a degree. Instead, you can incorporate smaller learning practices into your daily routines and pick up multiple new skills through tutorials and training programs. To make this as easy and approachable as possible, try replacing one Netflix episode with a YouTube tutorial or LinkedIn Learning video twice per week. Or dedicate a Saturday morning “power hour” once a month to mini-courses and treat yourself afterward. These small swaps add up over time and yield big results. Before you know it, you’ll feel confident and qualified to tackle something entirely new.
So, should you start career cushioning?
No one knows what the job market will look like in three, five, or even 10 years. That’s why it’s so important to stay proactive. Career cushioning—taking small, regular steps to prepare for unexpected changes—can help anyone, in any industry, feel ready for the future. Beyond just planning, it builds confidence, letting you stop stressing over the ‘what ifs’ and trust that you can handle whatever comes next. And since you can do it in fun and engaging ways, even with friends, there really is no downside!
Alyssa Towns, Contributing Career & Finance Writer
Alyssa Towns is a Denver-based writer and communications professional whose writing and expertise have appeared in Business Insider, Clockwise, G2, The Knot, Passion Planner, Thrive Global, and more. In addition to being a freelance writer, Alyssa has a background in internal communications and change management and is passionate about helping humans thrive in the workplace.
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