We are so grateful for the thoughtful feedback we received from our recent survey.
Findings: Most of you are navigating a season of change, trying to stay competitive, confident, and clear about what’s next in a market that feels both full of uncertainty and opportunity. We’ll be sharing content periodically only when we believe it can genuinely add perspective, spark reflection, or offer real, actionable insights to help you move forward in your career.
And right now, there’s one theme we can’t ignore… something we’re seeing in nearly every conversation, coaching session, and hiring trend: What the Wall Street Journal is calling “Job Hugging.”
You know that feeling when you’ve been through a lot of change, and even though things aren’t perfect, you cling a little tighter to what feels safe? That’s job hugging.
It’s happening everywhere. People are gripping tightly to their current roles. Companies are holding on to their top performers (though not always with great pay) because they can’t afford turnover. And job seekers? They’re feeling the squeeze of trying to wedge into a market that feels tighter than it should.
At first glance, it looks like stagnation. But underneath, it’s actually something beautifully human.
We crave safety. We value loyalty. We want to feel grounded when the world keeps shifting.
Understanding this can change how you navigate your next move, whether you’re the one doing the hugging or the one waiting for your next opportunity.
If you’re hugging your current role, here’s how to use this time wisely:
Invest, don’t retreat. Instead of waiting for the “right time” to make a move, use this time to prepare yourself for your next (eventual) career transition. Audit your skills and opportunities. Develop new skills and ask for projects that will expand your resume, making you more marketable in the future. Bonus: This will also position you as a top performer your company may see as more valuable to keep.
Redefine loyalty. Staying doesn’t have to mean standing still. Ask yourself: “What would growth look like from here?” Maybe it’s mentoring someone, improving a process, or finally tackling that creative project that’s been calling you. Stay because you want to, not because you believe you have no other option
Expand your community. Even if you’re content, stay visible. Check in with past colleagues, comment on posts, share insights. A soft connection today can lay the groundwork needed to more easily open doors later without needing to make a “big move” right now.
If you’re struggling to land your next role, pivot your strategy:
People > Applications. During job-hugging seasons, fewer roles are posted — but internal referrals and targeted outreach are the ticket to landing interviews. Spend more time connecting; less time applying blindly.
Tell a future story. Employers are cautious right now. They want to know you’re steady, adaptable, and can solve the challenges within their organization. Use your résumé and interviews to show not just what you’ve done, but where you’re going and how you’ll help them get there.
Expand your experiences. Slow hiring cycles are frustrating and they’re also perfect for skill building, brand refreshing, or revisiting what you actually want. This “waiting room” time can become your launch pad. What skills could you gain to set yourself apart? How can you expand your network? What can you learn about the future of your industry?
Whether you’re holding tight or waiting to be invited in, remember this:
Every career season can help you grow. Sometimes our work is to root. Other times, it’s to reach. Both are valid. Both move you forward…. when you’re grounding it in strategy.
If this resonated, we’d love to hear where you find yourself right now. Are you in a season of rooting, or reaching? What topics would you like more information on? Just hit reply and tell me…. we read every message.
~ Hollis & Heather
Career Coaches, Designing “What’s Next”