Young Chinese Adults Pay to Pretend to Work Amid Rising Unemployment

Surging youth unemployment in China, currently over 14%, has led many young adults to pay for a workspace in mock offices, allowing them to maintain a semblance of productivity. This trend reflects economic frustration and social pressures as individuals strive for self-discipline, job hunting, or meeting residency prerequisites for their diplomas.

In China, a new trend has emerged among unemployed young adults who are opting to pay for the experience of pretending to work in various mock office spaces. As the country's jobs market continues to struggle, with youth unemployment exceeding 14%, these paid arrangements have become an appealing alternative for many.

One such individual is 30-year-old Shui Zhou, who turned to the "Pretend To Work Company" in Dongguan after a failed food business venture. For just 30 yuan ($4.20), he gains access to an office environment that resembles a real workplace. There, he joins colleagues who are also navigating the challenges of unemployment. This phenomenon is spreading across major Chinese cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Wuhan.

Often equipped with computers and internet access, these 'offices' serve multiple purposes. Participants utilize the facilities for job searching, launching startups, or merely socializing with fellow job seekers. The cost typically includes amenities such as lunch and snacks, encouraging collaboration and camaraderie among attendees. "I feel very happy," says Mr. Zhou. "It's like we're working together as a group."

Dr. Christian Yao, an expert on the Chinese economy, describes the popularity of these mock office spaces as a transitional solution for young professionals seeking direction amidst a challenging job market. Shui Zhou came across the concept while browsing social media and found that spending time in a structured environment enhanced his self-discipline.

In Shanghai, Xiaowen Tang, a fresh graduate, also utilized a pretend work company to fulfill her university's requirements for proof of employment, while simultaneously writing online novels to earn some income. "If you're going to fake it, just fake it to the end," she quipped.

Feiyu, the owner of the Dongguan location, acknowledges that 40% of his clients are recent graduates seeking ways to appease academic requirements. He emphasizes that he offers his clients dignity rather than just workspace. Having experienced unemployment himself after shutting down a retail business during the pandemic, he understands the emotional complexities involved.

This unique workplace trend, which has roots in feelings of powerlessness regarding job opportunities, allows young adults to navigate the complexities of modern professional life. Whether seen as a harmless coping mechanism or a concerning cultural phenomenon, "pretending to work" illustrates the innovative ways people are trying to remain relevant in a demanding job market. As Mr. Zhou continues to enhance his skills in AI tools, he remains hopeful that these endeavors will one day lead him to meaningful employment.