Career cushioning: job security and upskilling in New Zealand

In today’s evolving job market, many New Zealand professionals are quietly upskilling even if they have no immediate plans to resign. This emerging trend, known as career cushioning, reflects a shift in confidence and a desire to protect job security. From updating LinkedIn profiles and CVs to gaining new skills and networking, career cushioning has become a proactive strategy for managing uncertainty.

Robert Walters’ recent research shows that 76% of New Zealand professionals are taking steps to prepare for career change in 2026, highlighting a growing sense of caution despite low unemployment.

What is career cushioning?

Career cushioning is the practice of building a professional safety net while remaining in your current role. It allows employees to safeguard their job security while upskilling to remain competitive in the job market. Common activities include:

• Updating CVs and LinkedIn profiles
• Networking with industry contacts
• Exploring new job opportunities
• Upskilling or undertaking professional training
• Monitoring the job market for trends and opportunities

For professionals who want guidance on career planning, our Workforce planning 2026 e-guide provides insights on how to navigate the changing job market. 

Unlike active job hunting, career cushioning is about readiness rather than immediate action. Professionals can maintain security while positioning themselves for future growth.

Why career cushioning is rising in Australia

Although Australia’s unemployment rate remains steady at 4.3%, other labour market indicators suggest confidence is softening:

• Underemployment rose to 6.2% in November 2025
• Job vacancies fell to 327,200 in August 2025, down 2.7% from May

Surveying more than 2,000 Australian professionals, Robert Walters found that:

• 36% are exploring new roles
• 31% are upskilling or undertaking training
• 18% are updating their CV or LinkedIn profile
• 16% are actively networking

Confidence levels are also shifting: only 26% feel secure in their current role, 40% feel neutral, and 34% feel insecure or very insecure.

The main drivers behind career cushioning include:

• Better pay opportunities (35%)
• Limited career progression (33%)
• Job security concerns (29%)
• Economic uncertainty (3%)

To understand how compensation trends affect job security, our Salary guides and insights provide up-to-date market benchmarks.

For professionals looking to enhance their skills, our Career development services can guide your upskilling journey.

What career cushioning means for employees

For employees, career cushioning allows them to strengthen job security while upskilling strategically. Key benefits include:

• Greater control over career trajectory
• Reduced stress from uncertainty
• Increased readiness for unexpected job market shifts
• Opportunities to identify the right next role rather than rushing

Career cushioning is not a sign of dissatisfaction alone. It is a smart, strategic approach to remaining adaptable while building skills, networks, and options.

What career cushioning signals for employers

For employers, career cushioning reflects subtle workforce sentiment. Employees may remain in their roles but:

• Be less engaged or committed long term
• Evaluate career opportunities more selectively
• Be open to competing offers from other organisations

Over time, this can impact:

• Resignation rates once market conditions improve
• Hiring processes, which may become longer as candidates weigh options
• Retention of critical skills, as employees may be more receptive to poaching

Understanding career cushioning helps employers respond proactively. Providing clear career progression, flexible work arrangements, and transparent reward structures can help maintain engagement and protect key talent.

How to manage career cushioning as a professional

If you’re upskilling while maintaining job security, consider these practical steps:

1. Update your CV and LinkedIn profile – Ensure your experience, skills, and achievements are current.
2. Upskill strategically – Focus on areas in demand within your industry.
3. Network consistently – Maintain professional connections even if you’re not actively job hunting.
4. Monitor the market – Track trends, salary benchmarks, and new opportunities.
5. Clarify career goals – Reflect on your priorities and what you want in your next role.

These steps allow professionals to remain secure in their current role while preparing for potential future opportunities.

Conclusion

Career cushioning is becoming widespread among Australian professionals. It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of job security while upskilling strategically. For employees, it provides flexibility and control over their career. For employers, it signals the need to focus on engagement, progression, and retention strategies.

Explore more hiring advice or contact our team to learn how career cushioning trends may affect your organisation or career.