Job Hugging - How to Change Careers Without Quitting

Even if current corporate positions no longer align with career goals, people have begun to second-guess or delay quitting. Some might expect positive changes, while others have inadvertently become a part of the job-hugging phenomenon. The latter, replacing the previously trendy job hopping, represents the evidently more stagnant job market and people’s unwillingness to leave their roles.

In this article, we observe the job-hugging trend, its effects on your career, and how to prevent it from derailing your future.

Defining Job Hugging

Job hugging has always been present, with people holding onto positions that might bring little joy, satisfaction, or career prospects in favor of stability and financial security. According to a Forbes study, 75% of American workers do not plan to change their jobs at least until 2027. The current economy, rising cost of living, and a significant decline in job market opportunities have contributed to such unstable attitudes.

Unlike before, even ambitious and career-focused individuals are affected by the fears and uncertainties of the unstable economy. Instead of looking for and applying to new positions, they focus on retaining their current jobs and avoiding any unnecessary risks to their livelihood.

When Staying in One Place Becomes Harmful

Working for a company for five or ten years is not inherently a bad thing. Employees may work in friendly environments, receive fair compensation, and be eligible for promotions and salary increases. So, they are on the right track for a successful career.

However, job hugging affects people who would otherwise look for new positions but decide against it due to low confidence and doubts about losing a stable income source. The biggest disadvantages of job hugging involve the following impact on people:

• Their ambitions and career growth halt, and it might be challenging to get back on track.
• People no longer strive for success by maintaining a stable performance, but rather by not overreaching with their efforts.
• Fear of quitting unfavorable or hostile work environments with decent salaries could significantly impact people’s mental and physical health.
• Developing low confidence and other doubts over your skills and ability to get hired and maintain more favorable positions.

Don’t sit Still - Continue Improving without Quitting

Even if people have become more reluctant to quit and take a chance with a new position, it doesn’t mean that they cannot focus on their career growth.

For example, more individuals use a suitable money-earning app, which helps them ease their financial worries. On the most basic and accessible level, such apps could be similar to JumpTask, which is a get-paid-to platform. It presents a variety of online micro-tasks that people perform and receive payment for. In other cases, people can dive deep into reinventing their careers, especially if the current job market for their current role offers little that is worthy of their attention.

➤ Picking Up Online Courses and Getting Certified

People will thank themselves for enrolling in various courses. While you might look for academies or education facilities locally, the internet is abundant with learning resources. Udemy or Coursera will not let you down when it comes to tracking down a course you need. Furthermore, various official certificate programs will give you the edge you will need once you feel comfortable applying to new jobs.

➤ Use all Opportunities in the Current Role

Sometimes, it’s not about the actual position but the attitudes we develop over time. For example, the repetitive tasks can appear tedious, even though they sounded inspiring and fulfilling initially. If possible, attempt to negotiate your tasks and explore options to reinvent them. Your input could address the latest technologies that can streamline processes and provide a new venue for growth. So, sometimes it’s about taking the lead and raising concerns, rather than staying silent.

➤ Don’t Refuse Job Interviews

Even if your LinkedIn profile receives only a few messages over several months, don’t reveal your unwillingness to change jobs. Cherish the opportunities presented to you and agree to participate in job interviews, even if they won’t lead to actual offers. Such meetings offer excellent practice, allowing you to feel more comfortable.

Besides easing your anxieties, the hiring managers could remember your resume in the future. Hence, they can contact you when they look for a person with your specific skill set.

➤ Prepare for a Successful Transition to a New Role

Regardless of the economy, sometimes it is time to look for a new job. If doubts and financial uncertainties hinder this process, a practical option is to conduct thorough research and prepare thoroughly for the job you ideally want.

For instance, that involves the suggestion we already mentioned: mapping out and honing skills necessary for your dream career. Additional training and confidence in your skills will enable you to feel more confident in the job search and reduce the likelihood of lacking the required competencies.

➤ Growth Through Freelancing

If you're looking to explore a new career path, consider offering your freelance services. As a result, you can retain your current job and set a flexible schedule to match your availability. However, since you're likely a junior or a beginner in the new field, your prices will reflect that. Match the market supply by scouting similar freelancer profiles to set a fair pricing: one that doesn’t hurt you or go overboard.

Conclusion

Job hugging is not about intentionally halting your career growth or feeling lazy. It’s a phenomenon that most of us experience when times are uncertain, and changing jobs makes us even more vulnerable.

Of course, it’s crucial to remember that downsizing is a possibility at any company, even if you have worked there for several years. Still, if you prefer to stay in your current role for the time being, don’t let that stop your professional progress. Enroll in online courses and earn certifications in fields that are promising and spark your interest. Furthermore, you can alleviate financial stress by taking on freelancing and using this side hustle to acquire new skills. Lastly, be open to interviewing for new positions to explore the job market, including offered compensation and other perks that could help you feel more confident about the job change.

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