Unemployment is a challenging phase in anyone’s life, but in China, the societal stigma associated with being jobless has led to an unusual trend: renting office spaces to “pretend to work.”
This phenomenon reflects the immense pressure faced by individuals, especially the youth, in maintaining a facade of success and stability. The practice has sparked discussions about societal expectations, mental health, and the evolving dynamics of the job market.
The Rise of “Pretend Workspaces”
In China, renting fake office spaces and even posing as company bosses has become a creative yet revealing solution for unemployed individuals grappling with societal pressures.
For as little as 30 yuan (approximately 350 INR) a day, services offer access to workspaces equipped with desks, chairs, and even meals. Some services go a step further, providing opportunities to take photos in leather chairs to create the illusion of a professional life.
One such service in Hebei province charges 29.9 yuan per day, allowing individuals to “work” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch included. This seemingly innocuous service provides more than just a desk; it offers a psychological refuge for those unwilling to disclose their unemployment to family members or peers.
For others, the illusion is extended to a role-playing experience. A provider in northern China charges 50 yuan (about $7) for clients to sit in executive-style chairs and pose as bosses.
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While this particular service has yet to see foot traffic, the concept has garnered massive attention on social media platforms in China, amassing over 100 million views.
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Opinions on this trend are divided. Supporters argue that it offers psychological relief and a sense of normalcy during challenging times, while critics view it as escapism that delays genuine efforts to secure employment.
The Societal Stigma of Unemployment
The root of this phenomenon lies in the societal pressures that make unemployment not just a personal challenge but a social taboo. In China, success is often equated with professional achievements, and job loss can be perceived as a failure. This stigma is particularly pronounced among young people, who face immense expectations to excel in their careers.
China’s youth unemployment rate hit a record 21.3% in June 2023, underscoring the scale of the problem. The situation was so dire that the government paused the release of unemployment data, later recalculating the statistics to exclude students. By November 2023, the revised youth unemployment rate stood at 16.1%, still a significant concern.
Stories of individuals hiding their jobless status are becoming increasingly common. For instance, Jiawei, a former e-commerce worker from Hangzhou, spent his days in coffee shops applying for jobs while maintaining his old work routine to avoid worrying his family.
Similarly, Chen, a 29-year-old former semiconductor worker, used his severance pay to prepare for civil service exams at a library, keeping his unemployment hidden from his girlfriend.
Zhang Yong, a professor of social work at Wuhan University of Science and Technology, explains that societal pressures often lead young adults to set unrealistic career expectations. The sudden shock of losing a job can result in depression and a need to maintain appearances, as seen in the rise of “pretend workspaces.”
Navigating Unemployment with Honesty and Support
While the trend of renting office spaces to pretend to work highlights the ingenuity of those seeking to navigate societal pressures, it also underscores the need for a healthier approach to unemployment. Experts like Zhang Yong advocate for open communication and professional counseling to help individuals cope with job loss.
Unemployed individuals are encouraged to share their challenges with their families, who can provide emotional and financial support during difficult times.
For example, a social media user shared a heartfelt account of moving back to their hometown with their parents’ support after being laid off. “Parents will always support you, never lose confidence in yourself,” the user said.
Additionally, cultivating realistic career expectations and understanding the job market can help reduce the psychological burden of unemployment. Zhang emphasizes the importance of adopting a healthier mindset, which includes being open to exploring new career paths and taking proactive steps to build skills and networks.
The Chinese government and society at large can also play a role in reducing the stigma of unemployment by promoting mental health awareness and providing resources for job seekers.
Initiatives such as career counseling programs, skill development workshops, and community support groups can help individuals navigate the challenges of unemployment without resorting to escapism.
The trend of renting office spaces to “pretend to work” in China reflects the immense societal pressures faced by unemployed individuals. While these services offer temporary relief and a semblance of normalcy, they also highlight the need for a more supportive and understanding approach to unemployment.
Addressing the stigma surrounding joblessness requires collective effort from individuals, families, and society. By fostering open communication, providing emotional support, and promoting realistic career expectations, we can create an environment where unemployment is seen not as a failure but as a stepping stone toward new opportunities.
In the face of challenges, it is essential to remember that true success lies not in maintaining appearances but in resilience, adaptability, and the courage to embrace change. The stories of those who navigate unemployment with determination and creativity serve as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and renewal.