In China, a novel trend has emerged among unemployed young adults who are willing to pay to use office spaces for the experience of “pretending” to work. This phenomenon has been observed as youth unemployment in the country remains high, exceeding 14%, with many struggling to secure traditional job opportunities amid a sluggish economy.
Individuals, like 30-year-old Shui Zhou, have turned to services offering mock office environments. Zhou, who previously ran a food business that failed in 2024, pays approximately 30 yuan (around $4.20) daily to attend a facility called the Pretend To Work Company in Dongguan. He appreciates the social aspect, citing the camaraderie with other attendees.
Similar operations have surfaced in major cities, such as Shenzhen and Shanghai, providing cohesive office setups that include computer access, meeting rooms, and refreshments. Many users leverage these facilities to search for genuine employment or to pursue entrepreneurial interests.
Experts, including Dr. Christian Yao of Victoria University of Wellington, suggest that this trend reflects a need for transitional spaces where young adults can prepare for future job markets. Users engage in various activities, from job hunting to completing freelance projects. Zhou, for instance, felt that the office’s atmosphere enhanced his self-discipline.
In Shanghai, a young graduate named Xiaowen Tang used a mock office to meet her university’s requirement for internship proof. She shared photos of herself there while generating income through online writing.
Feiyu, the owner of the Dongguan facility, describes his venture not merely as a workspace provision but as a means for individuals to reclaim a sense of purpose. He notes a mix of freelancers and graduates among attendees, emphasizing the social experiment aspect of his business.
While the long-term viability of such enterprises remains uncertain, Feiyu reflects on their potential role in providing insight and generating opportunities for young adults facing career obstacles. Zhou, for instance, is focusing on developing AI skills to enhance his employability.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdd3ep76g3go?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss