Amid a surge in global layoffs, unemployment is not only creating financial strain but also taking a significant psychological and emotional toll. In China, a unique trend has emerged, offering the unemployed a chance to “pretend to work” by renting office spaces and posing as professionals. For as little as 30 yuan (approximately Rs 150), individuals can maintain the appearance of employment to avoid disclosing their jobless status to family and friends.
A video from Hebei province advertising this unconventional service recently went viral, showing an office space available to rent for 29.9 yuan per day from 10 am to 5 pm. The package included a workspace and lunch. Another similar offering charged 50 yuan, allowing customers to sit in a leather chair and pose as a “boss” for photographs.
The organiser, who had a spare office, explained the idea was born from observing the growing layoffs in large corporations. He saw this as a way to provide a temporary refuge for unemployed individuals, allowing them to stay productive and socially connected.
The concept of “pretend work” has sparked debate online. Supporters view it as a tool to alleviate the mental health challenges associated with unemployment, helping individuals maintain dignity and cope with societal pressures. Critics, however, argue that it promotes escapism and could delay efforts to find meaningful employment.
Jiawei, a former e-commerce employee from Hangzhou, shared his story of losing his job and moving back in with his parents. “Being unemployed is stressful, but I did not want to pass that negativity onto my family,” he said, revealing that he continued to leave the house daily to mimic his previous work routine and avoid suspicion.
Zhang Yong, a social work professor at Wuhan University of Science and Technology, weighed in on the trend, describing it as a response to intense societal expectations. “Society places a lot of pressure on people to succeed, and young adults sometimes set their job expectations too high. The sudden shock of losing a job can lead to depression,” he explained.
The rise of the “pretend work” trend highlights the broader unemployment crisis in China, particularly among its youth. Official data revealed that unemployment among the 16-24 age group reached a record 21.3% in June 2023. The government subsequently suspended the release of unemployment figures for several months, fuelling further concern.
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