The New Career Game
Building Value Wherever You Go
While AT&T's John Stankey tells employees that workplace loyalty is dead, millions of workers are doing the opposite: job-hugging or clinging to their jobs like never before. I mean, can you blame anyone? According to the Eagle Hill Retention Index, most employees now plan to stay put for the next six months, with their sense of outside opportunities hitting the lowest point since tracking began in 2023.
The numbers tell an even starker story. Job growth in July hit just 73,000, well below expectations. And massive downward revisions revealed May and June were far worse, adding only 19,000 and 14,000 jobs, respectively. Combined, the three months show the weakest job growth stretch since the pandemic. Global uncertainty, AI disruption, and economic volatility have created what recruiters call a "fear market," where even top performers stay put.
While job-hugging is a rational response, companies are still struggling to guarantee loyalty with the stories of more cuts continuing to pile up. Whether you're staying put, holding on, or starting a new role, it’s essential to build your own real security, wherever you work. Here’s how.
New Rules for a New Game
Long-term job security is really hard to find. Companies keep people as long as they create value; when that changes, so does employment.
Tenure is no longer the top currency. What once was seen as loyalty is no longer automatically rewarded.
Outcomes are weighted heaviest. Results, adaptability, and market relevance now define your value.
Once you understand these new rules, you can play the new game.
The New Game
1. Build Transferable Value Whatever Your Role
If your expertise is only relevant in one workplace, you're vulnerable if you ever need to move on (and you will). Focus now on acquiring skills and experience that are transferable anywhere.
Volunteer for cross-functional projects and learn how other departments work.
Get certified in industry-standard tools or methodologies (PMP for project management, AWS for cloud, or Six Sigma for process improvement).
Seek out projects that use tech or approaches common across your industry.
2. Strengthen Your Differentiation
If your skills or capabilities are just like everyone else's, you'll be seen as easily replaceable. Develop expertise and a reputation that sets you apart.
Become the go-to person for the work you do or the problems you solve.
Share insights or tips on professional forums or LinkedIn.
Clearly articulate your expertise and differentiation ("I help companies transition to cloud-based workflows faster").
3. Expand Your Network Beyond Your Current Company
Opportunities flow through people. Knowing and helping people in different companies or industries means more doors open when you need them. Build relationships across your industry, not just within your organization.
Attend industry events and follow up regularly with new contacts.
Join industry groups (in real life or online) and participate in discussions.
Reconnect with old colleagues regularly and offer introductions.
4. Think in Terms of Revenue Impact or Cost Savings
Companies reward impact. Show how your work generates value, saves money, or increases revenue.
For each of your projects, ask, "How did this increase revenue or cut costs?"
Measure and record the full impact of your results ("Reduced onboarding time by 30%" or "helped close $2M in new contracts").
Include achievements on your LinkedIn profile, in reviews, or in your portfolio.
5. Treat Financial Reserves as a Career Tool
A financial cushion gives you time to find the right next move. Budget so you have options if your situation changes.
Set a goal and save automatically from each paycheck.
Treat emergency savings as "career insurance" that could be used for training, relocation, or time between roles.
6. Keep Your Own Records
It’s up to you to track your value. You'll need it to negotiate raises, new jobs, or consulting work. Keep records.
Keep a running log of projects, quantifiable results, and positive client feedback.
Collect emails and testimonials that demonstrate impact.
Update your resume and LinkedIn quarterly.
7. Make Yourself a Constant Learner
The workforce is changing fast, especially with AI. Staying relevant requires continuous learning. Keep upgrading your skills in areas that shape your industry.
Set a regular learning schedule (take a new course per quarter).
Sign up for short online courses through LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, etc.
Apply lessons learned to demonstrate and lock in your new knowledge; a small side project will do the trick.
8. Show Value Like a Consultant, Now & Always
Employers and clients are willing to pay more for precise results and expertise. Position yourself like a consultant, as someone who provides quantifiable solutions.
Reframe your resume as case studies ("Solved X with Y resulting in Z").
Develop a personal services "menu" with clear offerings ("I help organizations reduce tech downtime by 25%").
Share examples on LinkedIn or your own website that show the impact of your work.
How Smart Professionals Are Adapting
They treat jobs like projects: clear deliverables, measurable outcomes, and client-like expectations, with results you can talk about.
They work closely with specialized recruiters to conduct job searches and gain a deeper understanding of their industry.
They negotiate for training and upskilling, understanding that investment improves long-term value.
They diversify their income streams through multiple projects and careers, much like portfolios, which can grow, compound, and adapt to change.
Bottom Line
Traditional job security won’t be coming back soon. But that doesn't mean your career is less stable. It means you are now responsible for creating your own stability.
The shift away from traditional loyalty structure creates more stability for professionals who focus on transferable skills, measurable outcomes, and adaptive career strategies. High performers gain more flexibility, more negotiating power, and more control.
The takeaway: regardless of where you work, as a full-time employee or consultant, build your career as if you were running your own business. Because in today's environment, you are.
I like the term "job hugging" and it all makes sense. Well written Ken, great job.