Career Cushioning: A Proactive Approach to Job Search and Layoff Preparedness
Career CushioningThe time to prepare for a job search is while you’re still employed. This concept is called “Career Cushioning.” Prepare yourself for a soft landing at a new job by being proactive about your job search ideas and creating alternate paths to new employment in the event of a layoff or termination. While looking for a job while still employed is always a strong strategy, career cushioning is a growing trend. The term gained favorability in late 2022/early 2023. Job security can be rare in certain industries. Ensuring you have a place to land in the event of sudden change is a proactive way to deal with uncertainty. Key roles and industries are being reimagined because of the impact of technology, including artificial intelligence. As a result, career cushioning is becoming increasingly relevant. According to research conducted by recruiting firm Robert Walters, 68% of professionals surveyed are already looking for new jobs as a “just in case” tactic. Almost half of those surveyed (48%) say low job satisfaction is the reason for their current mindset. Other reasons include lack of job security (28%) and internal changes within the company (16%). A turbulent economy is also a contributing cause (8%). MarketWatch Guides found that 70% of workers are taking steps to prepare for layoffs — such as putting more money into savings, or regularly reviewing job listings. The MarketWatch Guides 2024 Layoff Anxiety Survey found that survey respondents are monitoring current unemployment rates. Financial insecurity is also driving career cushioning tactics. 40% of workers say if they were laid off today, they would run out of money within one month based on their current spending. Almost a fourth of those surveyed said they would run out within two weeks. Generational differences are also apparent in career cushioning strategies. The Layoff Anxiety Survey found Generation Z employees (born between 1997 and 2012) feel the most pressure. 57% reported being anxious about being laid off, and 88% are actively taking steps to prepare for layoffs. 42% of millennial employees (born between 1981 and 1996) report layoff anxiety. Taking action can be an effective strategy to reduce anxiety. Top Tactics
Employees may also consider career cushioning strategies if they feel underappreciated or unchallenged in their current role, even if the position is stable. Dissatisfaction with salary and benefits, work/life balance, and career opportunities can also be reasons to pursue career cushioning activities. Projecting Your FutureOne key tactic for setting yourself up for success is networking. Connecting with individuals inside and outside your field can help you land your next role. Networking can help you identify unadvertised jobs and help you tap into the hidden job market, connect with recruiters and hiring managers, and learn more about a company before you apply for an advertised opening. Based on a survery of 3,000 participants in 2016 conducted by Lou Adler, the CEO at Performance Based Hiring, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. Especially when pursuing a confidential job search, networking can help open door to finding the next job opportunity. No longer does networking mean attending industry conferences and trade shows — mastering LinkedIn as you key to land your dream job and using LinkedIn messages to stay in touch can be just as effective. Final ThoughtsEven if your position isn’t threatened, career cushioning is a smart strategy to ensure you’re being paid a market rate and you’re ready for an opportunity if it arises. More Job Search IdeasAbout the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Job Searching in Orange County
If you or someone you know is looking for a job in Orange County, consider the following prevalent industries and notable companies in the region. To find job opportunities in these industries, search online job boards or visit the career sections of company websites. Industries and CompaniesEntertainment and Media Orange County is known for its vibrant entertainment and media industry, with a number of prominent companies in the region. Companies:
Aerospace and Defense The aerospace and defense industry is well-represented in Orange County, with companies involved in aircraft manufacturing, research, and development. Companies:
Healthcare and Biotechnology Orange County has a robust healthcare and biotech sector, including hospitals, research facilities, and biotech companies. Companies:
Technology and IT Orange County is experiencing growth in the technology sector, with various companies engaged in software development, IT services, and digital media. Companies:
Manufacturing Manufacturing in Orange County is diverse, covering electronics, medical devices, and consumer goods. Companies:
Retail and Hospitality The retail and hospitality sectors in Orange County thrive, including shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and tourism-related businesses. Companies:
Education and Research Institutions The presence of educational institutions and research centers contributes significantly to the local economy. Companies:
Health and Wellness Orange County places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with numerous fitness centers, spas, and related businesses. Companies:
Finance and Real Estate The financial and real estate sectors are essential to Orange County's economy, including banking, real estate development, and property management. Companies:
Green and Sustainable Industries With a growing emphasis on sustainability, there is a strong focus on green industries, including renewable energy and eco-friendly practices. Companies:
Job Searching and Networking in Orange CountyAdditionally, leverage the networking opportunities offered by local Chambers of Commerce. Each Chamber typically hosts two to three free networking events per month, open to the public, where representatives from large companies often attend. Ensure your resume is polished and ready to present at these events. Below is a list of the Chambers of Commerce in Orange County. Chambers of Commerce
These chambers of commerce offer various resources and networking opportunities to support local businesses and job seekers in Orange County. Your May Also Consider:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Job Searching in Los Angeles
Job Searching in Los AngelesIf you or someone you know is looking for a job in Los Angeles, consider exploring opportunities in the city's diverse and dynamic industries. Below is a list of prevalent industries and notable companies in the region, along with links to their career pages. To find job opportunities, search online job boards or visit the career sections of these companies' websites. Industries and CompaniesEntertainment and Media Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, home to major film studios, production companies, and media networks. Companies:
Aerospace and Defense The aerospace and defense industry is robust in Los Angeles, with companies involved in aircraft manufacturing, research, and development. Companies:
Healthcare and Biotechnology The healthcare sector is significant, with hospitals, medical research facilities, and biotech companies contributing to the local economy. Companies:
Technology and IT Los Angeles has a burgeoning technology sector, with various companies engaged in software development, IT services, and digital media. Companies:
Manufacturing Manufacturing in Los Angeles includes the production of machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. Companies:
Retail and Hospitality The retail and hospitality sectors are thriving in Los Angeles, with numerous shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and tourism-related businesses. Companies:
Education and Research Institutions Los Angeles is home to numerous educational institutions and research centers. Companies:
Health and Wellness The health and wellness industry is well-developed in Los Angeles, with many fitness centers, spas, and related businesses. Companies:
Finance and Real Estate The financial and real estate sectors are vital to Los Angeles' economy, including banking, real estate development, and property management. Companies:
Green and Sustainable Industries With a focus on sustainability, Los Angeles is home to growing green industries, including renewable energy and eco-friendly practices. Companies:
Job Searching and NetworkingAdditionally, leverage the networking opportunities offered by local Chambers of Commerce. Each Chamber typically hosts two to three free networking events per month, open to the public, where representatives from large companies often attend. Ensure your resume is polished and ready to present at these events. Below is a list of the Chambers of Commerce in Los Angeles. Chambers of Commerce
Leverage these resources and network effectively to find job opportunities in Los Angeles. You may also consider: JOB SEARCHING THROUGHOUT SAN FERNANDO VALLEY (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/job-searching-throughout-san-fernando-valley) JOB SEARCHING THROUGHOUT KERN COUNTY (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/job-searching-throughout-kern-county) CHANGING JOBS: A SIGNIFICANT LIFE TRANSITION (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/changing-jobs-a-significant-life-transition) About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Job Searching Throughout Kern County
Below are a few job search ideas. If you or someone you know is looking for a job in Kern County, consider the following prevalent industries and notable companies in the region. To find job opportunities in these industries, search online job boards or visit the career sections of company websites. Industries and CompaniesOil & Gas Kern County is a significant hub for the energy and petroleum industry, with many companies involved in oil extraction and renewable energy. Companies:
Agriculture Agriculture is a major industry in Kern County, known for producing a variety of crops and agricultural products. Companies:
Healthcare The healthcare sector is vital, with hospitals, clinics, and medical research facilities serving the community. Companies:
Manufacturing Manufacturing is diverse, including the production of machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. Companies:
Education and Research Institutions The presence of educational institutions and research centers contributes to the education and research industry. Companies:
Logistics and Transportation Logistics and transportation are crucial, given Kern County's role as a transportation hub. Companies:
Construction The construction industry in Kern County involves residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Companies:
Retail and Hospitality The retail and hospitality sectors thrive, encompassing shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and tourism-related businesses. Companies:
Finance and Real Estate The financial and real estate sectors are essential contributors to the local economy, including banking, real estate development, and property management. Companies:
Renewable Energy Kern County is investing in renewable energy, including solar and wind power projects. Companies:
Job Searching and NetworkingAdditionally, leverage the networking opportunities offered by local Chambers of Commerce. Each Chamber typically hosts two to three free networking events per month, open to the public, where representatives from large companies often attend. Ensure your resume is polished and ready to present at these events. Kern County Chamber of Commerce
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Job Searching Throughout San Fernando Valley
Below are a few job search ideas. If you or someone you know is looking for a job in the San Fernando Valley, consider the following prevalent industries and notable companies in the region. To find job opportunities in these industries, search online job boards or visit the career sections of company websites. Industries and CompaniesEntertainment and Media The San Fernando Valley is known for its ties to the entertainment industry, hosting numerous film studios, production companies, and related businesses. Companies:
Aerospace and Defense The aerospace and defense industry has a significant presence, with companies involved in aircraft manufacturing, research, and development. Companies:
Healthcare and Biotechnology The healthcare sector is prominent, with hospitals, medical research facilities, and biotech companies contributing to the local economy. Companies:
Technology and IT The San Fernando Valley has seen growth in the technology sector, with various companies engaged in software development, IT services, and digital media. Companies:
Manufacturing Manufacturing is diverse in the area, including the production of machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. Companies:
Retail and Hospitality The retail and hospitality sectors thrive in the San Fernando Valley, encompassing shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and tourism-related businesses. Companies:
Education and Research Institutions The presence of educational institutions and research centers contributes to the education and research industry. Companies:
Health and Wellness The San Fernando Valley has a focus on health and wellness, with fitness centers, spas, and related businesses catering to residents' well-being. Companies:
Finance and Real Estate The financial and real estate sectors are essential contributors to the local economy, including banking, real estate development, and property management. Companies:
Green and Sustainable Industries With a growing emphasis on sustainability, there is an emerging focus on green industries, including renewable energy and eco-friendly practices. Companies:
Job Searching and NetworkingAdditionally, leverage the networking opportunities offered by local Chambers of Commerce. Each Chamber typically hosts two to three free networking events per month, open to the public, where representatives from large companies often attend. Ensure your resume is polished and ready to present at these events. Below is a list of the Chambers of Commerce in the San Fernando Valley. Chambers of Commerce
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Changing Jobs A Significant Life Transition
One of the most impactful changes you might experience in your life is changing jobs. Whether you're career shifting, relocating for work, or transitioning due to unforeseen circumstances, it's essential to navigate this change with a positive mindset and a proactive approach. Evaluate Your Career GoalsBefore you embark on a job change, take the time to reflect on your aspirations and goal for professional development. What do you want to achieve in your professional life, and how does the new job align with these objectives? Understanding the reasons behind your decision can make the transition smoother and more purposeful. Prepare and PlanUnlike some unexpected life changes, changing jobs often comes with a certain level of predictability. Use this advantage to your benefit. Create a transition plan that includes customizing your resume, networking with potential employers or colleagues, and acquiring any necessary skills or qualifications. The more prepared you are, the less daunting the change will seem. Embrace the Growth MindsetAs with any change, having a growth mindset is critical when changing jobs. Approach this transition as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Understand that even if it feels challenging at first, your hard work and dedication can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying career. This shift in perspective can help you view the job change as a positive step forward. Stay Flexible and Open-MindedChanging jobs might come with unforeseen challenges and adjustments. Be open to new experiences, different work environments, and novel responsibilities. Flexibility is your ally in adapting to the demands of the new job and making the most of the change. Reflect on Past ChangesIf you're feeling anxious about changing jobs, look back at your previous experiences with change and how they have improved your life. Consider times when a change, such as leaving a previous job, led to better opportunities or personal growth. Reflecting on past successes can help you approach the new job with a more optimistic outlook. Maintain Your Self-Care RoutineDuring a job change, it's crucial to practice self-care to alleviate stress and anxiety. Take time for yourself, engage in activities that bring you joy, and prioritize your well-being. This can help you stay grounded and maintain a positive attitude throughout the transition. Express GratitudeAmidst the challenges of changing jobs, remember to express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you've had in your career. Gratitude can provide a sense of fulfillment and remind you of the valuable lessons you've learned along the way. Embrace the New NormalFinally, when you change jobs, you are transitioning to a new phase of your professional life. Embrace this new normal with an open heart and an understanding that it may lead to bigger and better opportunities. The ability to adapt and accept this change will make your journey in the working world all the more enriching. Changing jobs is a significant life transition that, when approached with the right mindset and preparation, can lead to personal and professional growth. Embrace it as a chance to shape your future and advance in your career. About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
How to Turn Down a Job Offer Gracefully
Reasons to Say No and How to Do It GracefullyYou got the interview — and the job offer! Congratulations! Perhaps you are not sure how to evaluate a job offer or whether this is the right time to make a career move. Here are some reasons to consider turning down a job offer (and how to do that gracefully).
How to Say No Respectfully and Without Burning BridgesYou’ve decided that this job isn’t the right one for you — so how do you turn down the job offer gracefully? Just because you were offered the job doesn’t mean you have to accept it. The first step is to decide how you’re going to communicate that you’re declining the job offer. If you had a good rapport with the hiring manager, and the hiring manager is who made the job offer, it makes sense to reach out to him or her directly. It’s an uncomfortable situation to be sure, but part of turning down the job offer gracefully is through clear, direct communication. And time is of the essence. In making the job offer, the hiring manager may have given you a timeline for making the decision. Don’t put off telling them no if you have decided you’re not going to accept the job. The conversation won’t get easier with time, and you’re just putting off the inevitable. If the offer was extended through a human resources representative, you may decide to let the HR representative know you’re declining the offer, and then follow up with the hiring manager as well. If you really can’t imagine yourself being able to turn down the job offer by phone, an email is acceptable. But a phone call is preferred. You want to communicate three key points:
The most important is the second point — it should be clear that you’re turning down the job offer. You don’t have to provide a reason for doing so, but you’ll likely be asked, so be ready. Here’s how a phone call to the hiring manager might go: “Hi, Joe. I appreciate you offering me the sales manager job. I’m so appreciative of the time you took to interview me and help me understand what the role entails. However, after careful consideration, I’ve decided not to accept the job. But I wanted to let you know that I’m so grateful for the time you and the team put into the interview process, and I’m sorry that we won’t be working together.” Joe is likely to either accept you declining the offer, or he may press you for a reason why you’re not accepting the job. Be ready to explain, even if it’s not the “real” reason. For example, if you discover that the company is behind on paying its suppliers, and you don’t want to leave a stable company for one that might be in trouble financially, you don’t have to say that. (And Joe might try to persuade you that things are, in fact, fine … even if your inside contact has told you otherwise.) So, you might give a more “innocuous” reason, such as “After thinking it over, I just don’t think now is the right time for me to make a move,” or “After getting a better understanding of the role, I’ve come to realize this role isn’t the right fit for me.” This is an easy way of saying, “It’s not you, it’s me.” It’s harder for a hiring manager to push back against a reason that has to do with you versus one that has to do with the company. Do not criticize the job or the company when providing your reason for declining the job offer. Also, please don’t lie. It can be easy to say, “I’ve decided to accept a different job offer,” but if that’s not the case, it may come back to bite you, especially in a small industry where the hiring managers know each other. It’s fine to say you’ve decided to stay at your current job, but don’t make up another job offer as a way to decline this one. The most important thing is to be clear that you’ve made your decision. If you’ve decided that you aren’t accepting the position, don’t be persuaded in the conversation you’re having to decline the job offer to accept it. (Especially if you are offered more money after previously being turned down for a salary increase when you made a counteroffer.) If you’d like to be considered for other jobs at the company in the future (maybe this particular job wasn’t the right fit, or the salary for this role wasn’t what you were hoping), make sure that you emphasize that you appreciate learning more about the company but that this specific role wasn’t the right fit. There’s no guarantee that you will be considered for other roles in the future, but you’re trying not to burn the bridge. You can express interest in staying in touch with the hiring manager in the hopes that you’ll be considered for future opportunities. Declining a job offer can be difficult. However, turning down a role that you ultimately wouldn’t be happy in is important. But it’s better for you — and the company — that you decline the position so they can find someone who is a better fit. About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. |
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