Why ‘career cushioning’ is booming

In a rapidly changing job market, professionals are increasingly turning to career cushioning as a method to safeguard their work. This involves developing backup plans and acquiring new skills to withstand potential disruptions. The reasons behind this trend stem from evolving job roles and the rapid pace of technological advancements.

Experts assert that career cushioning is a rational response to the uncertainty caused by factors such as artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, organizational restructuring, and shifting business strategies.

As roles become more susceptible to obsolescence due to the short half-life of skills, employees are proactively building proof of their relevance. This involves obtaining certifications, creating portfolios of new work, and networking with contacts in related fields. Career cushioning should not be a knee-jerk reaction to fear but rather a continuous investment in one's professional development.

By incorporating career development into daily routines, individuals can establish themselves as adaptable and future-ready employees.

Moreover, the social contract between employees and employers has been disrupted due to AI. Workers are expected to adapt to new technologies, while simultaneously being made aware that their roles may become redundant in the near future. This shift has led to a growing number of professionals adopting career cushioning as a proactive approach to navigating the evolving landscape.

Instead of waiting for external guidance on future requirements, employees are taking charge of their own career management and ensuring they have options before they are truly needed.