Work in transition - #1 - From lazy apply to stigma on LinkedIn open to work banner

As part of my thesis focus, I will be sharing weekly edits on stuff I come across relating to the digital economy and emerging trends in work cultures.

Here is what I’ve noted this week.

TikTok, the app for everything (#worktok). Gen Zs are seeking career advice on TikTok - Beyond its initial entertainment-focused reputation, TikTok has transformed into a valuable everything app. This shift signifies the platform's adaptability and the growing trend of seeking professional advice in unconventional spaces. Is this signaling the decline of LinkedIn and the need for more authentic, expressive self-branding? TikTok's unfiltered nature may be more relevant for emerging careers, especially in media and the digital space. The challenge with this then lies in finding a balance between presenting a professional brand and sharing a personal lifestyle—how will life and work continue to intersect?

Speaking of the end of LinkedIn, the ‘open to work’ banner has sparked diverse opinions, ranging from stigma to empowerment. While a great tool for signaling job-seeking openness, discussions reveal a nuanced take. Some hiring managers have stated viewing it negatively, associating it with desperation, while others see it as a positive indication of openness to opportunities. A comprehensive study on the feature's effectiveness and its influence on securing job opportunities would be insightful.

On changing work cultures, since COVID-19, there has been a growing change in how people prefer to work and what employers are planning to support. With some embracing remote work and others seeking community despite the rise of remote-first options. This visual mapping illustrates the relationships between companies and workers in these evolving workspaces, providing a framework to understand the different personas in the space. How effectively are workplaces and individuals adapting to these changes?

And of course, no post is complete without some take on generative AI. AI as a productivity hack. AI is expanding at a fast pace, and it’s time to apply it to be more productive. From image generators to writing companions, content recommenders to personal assistants. These AI-powered tools promise to free us from routine tasks, allowing a focus on higher-level thinking. However, concerns persist about data security, algorithmic biases, and the ethical implications of relying on machines for critical decision-making. For instance, LazyApply is streamlining job applications but questions might arise about the AI's accuracy in tailoring applications to diverse job requirements. Can AI truly understand nuanced preferences and job requirements, or does it risk oversimplifying the application process? Considering the job-hunting fatigue in these economically challenging times, the relevance of such tools remains undeniable.

That is it for this week’s edit. Cheers.