What is job instability?

Definition and Examples of Job Insecurity

Job insecurity is a state of uncertainty about the continuity of employment. Workers may face acute job insecurity – such as when there is a threat of dismissal or termination – or chronic job insecurity, which is a general fear of not being able to keep their jobs.

Types of Job Insecurity

There are two main types of job insecurity: acute and chronic. For example, if you suspect that you are about to be laid off in the coming weeks, you are experiencing acute job insecurity. On the other hand, if your company is doing well and it seems that your boss is somewhat satisfied with your work, but there is no guarantee that this will remain the case and your industry is vulnerable to layoffs, you are experiencing chronic job insecurity.

How Job Insecurity Affects Workers

Job insecurity can have severe negative effects on the physical and mental health of workers. Studies have shown a link between job insecurity and heart disease, diabetes, ulcers, headaches, back pain, and insomnia. Additionally, workers experiencing job insecurity are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking.

Job Security vs. Job Insecurity

Job security means the ability to expect ongoing employment, generally in the same job or company. Some employers and certain positions offer unusually high levels of job security in the current work environment. These jobs include union jobs, government positions, and jobs covered by labor contracts or collective bargaining agreements.

How to Deal with Job Insecurity

Unless you have a government or union job, you are likely to experience some level of job insecurity throughout your career. The best way to deal with it is to acknowledge the reality and plan accordingly. Here are some tips:

• Be loyal to yourself, not your employer: Even if you love your job, your team, and your company’s mission, recognize that very few workers in the U.S. stay with the same employer for many years. Update your resume, refresh your skills, and keep your eyes and ears open for job opportunities or signs that layoffs may be imminent.
• Target more secure opportunities: Can’t live with uncertainty? Steer your career path toward more secure options. Look for jobs in government, union-supported industries, or with employers who have a good reputation for employee retention.
• Research the skills in demand in your field: Add those skills to your toolkit. Having a hot skill or certification may not help you keep your job, but it will certainly help you find a new opportunity if you need or want one.

Key Takeaways

Job insecurity is a state of uncertainty for the worker – whether real or perceived – regarding the continuity of employment. Most private-sector workers in the U.S. work under conditions that require them to do so without the guarantee of job continuity. Ways to cope with job insecurity include being loyal to yourself rather than your employer, targeting more secure opportunities, and researching the skills in demand in your field.

Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/what-is-job-insecurity-5208304