Episode 58: Job Hugging?!: Your Guide to Staying Put on Purpose in a Tight Market

Episode 58: Job Hugging?!: Your Guide to Staying Put on Purpose in a Tight Market

What does it mean to job hug, and when is it actually the right move for you? In this episode of Careers at the End of the World, host Jenn Walker Wall breaks down why so many professionals are choosing to stay put right now and how to make that an intentional, strategic choice. From defining your “why” to setting benchmarks, upskilling, or running a quiet passive job search, Jenn shares practical ways to protect your options, strengthen your skills, and create structure in uncertain times. Because sometimes, a good-enough job in a not-so-great market is exactly the kind of stability you need while you plan your next move.

She also introduces the Revive Sessions, new one-on-one strategy offerings from Work Wonders Careers with flexible pricing and a “take it if you need it” discount for those navigating career uncertainty.

Episode Highlights

• What “job hugging” means and why it’s becoming more common
• How to make staying in your job an active decision, not a passive default
• The risks and rewards of staying put during an unstable job market
• Why a good-enough job can be a great job in a not-so-great market
• Simple ways to start a passive job search without burning out
• Why upskilling, stretch projects, and small freelance tests build future stability
• How to check in with your personal risk tolerance and set career benchmarks
• A look at the new REVIVE Sessions and how they support short-term strategy work

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – Welcome and community updates: navigating work in uncertain times
• 01:36 – Revive Sessions explained: new short-term coaching and career support
• 04:52 – What is job hugging? Why professionals are staying put in 2025’s job market
• 09:49 – The pull of stability: routine, pay, and remote flexibility in a volatile economy
• 13:30 – Job hugging risks: stagnation, burnout, and lost career momentum
• 15:53 – Career growth from where you are: upskilling, reskilling, and passive job search tactics
• 19:01 – Diversify your income: freelance, consulting, and portfolio career strategies
• 21:27 – Jenn’s personal pivot: embracing change and building sustainable success

Resources and Links

• Revive Your Career Session or Bundle
• Episode 56: How to Create Income Without a Corporate Job: Portfolio Careers, Self Employment and Other Ways to Make $$
• Episode 57: What to Do When Your Industry Is in Crisis: Resume Strategies and Job Search Tips to Help You Pivot Careers in a Tough Market
• Work Wonders Careers Job Search Community
• Connect with Jenn on LinkedIn

Credits

Podcast editing by Vienna DeGiacomo, Good Story Branding