In recent years, the reversal of employee-centric policies, implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, has been evident in the American workforce. As the economy deteriorated and interest rates soared, employers began to regain the power they temporarily lost during the Great Resignation—a period marked by employees departing en masse in search of higher salaries and better work-life balance. Companies were left struggling in the battle for talent. Once employers regained their footing, they called for employees to return to the office despite business success under remote work conditions, and they cut back on perks and benefits. From mid-2022 to early 2024, mass layoffs were conducted callously, often through one-sided phone calls, leaving employees abruptly jobless and befuddled as to why they were being let go. Many workers began to record these incidents, exposing their dismissals online without any provided explanation or data.
Amid this chaos, TikTok witnessed a meteoric rise. Beyond dancing and entertainment, the platform became a venue for exposing unfair bosses, sharing job search frustrations, and advocating for workplace justice and solidarity. Consequently, a movement was born.
TikTok influencers increasingly share career advice, promoting viral workplace trends such as quiet quitting, acting your wage, and bare minimum Mondays—encouraging employees to recognize their worth and challenge their employers. Despite these influencers having good intentions, their advice can sometimes be detrimental to your career if taken uncritically. It is crucial to exercise discernment when considering career tips from TikTok influencers, as many lack the depth of knowledge in hiring, career management, and financial planning.
### Bad Advice Prominent on TikTok
**1. Do the Least Amount of Work (Quiet Quitting and Acting Your Wage)**
Many people are fed up with dead-end jobs, low wages, and feeling undervalued, leading some TikTok influencers to cavalierly suggest engaging in quiet quitting or doing the bare minimum. While this advice might seem justified in a hot job market where replacements are hard to find, it can be damaging in a slowing job market. Engaging in such behavior can make you a target for quiet firing during downsizing. Instead of risking termination and future job search complications, discuss your concerns with your manager, seek a solution, and prioritize both self-care and self-preservation.
**2. Frequently Switch Jobs**
Though switching jobs can lead to higher salaries, frequent job changes can label you as a "job hopper," making you a riskier candidate for future employers. The promised pay raises may not always outweigh the benefits of staying with a company that offers job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and better work-life balance. Moreover, the job market has become more challenging, with lengthy and cumbersome hiring processes. Conduct thorough research before job-hopping; understand the market's condition and the hiring company’s financial stability.
**3. Get Rich Quick**
Many TikTok influencers push unrealistic 'get rich quick' schemes, advocating side hustles and entrepreneurship without elaborating on the required time, effort, investment, and risks involved. Such advice often comes with offers to purchase courses or products, delving into multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. While some MLMs operate legally, they can border on pyramid schemes, leading to significant financial losses due to unsold inventory and out-of-pocket expenses.
**4. Rage Apply**
TikTokers often recommend applying to numerous jobs to escape a frustrating work environment. However, indiscriminately sending out your résumé can waste your time and energy, jeopardize your reputation, and signal desperation to prospective employers. Instead, focus on targeted job applications for roles and companies that align with your career goals and interests.
In conclusion, while TikTok offers a platform for sharing and receiving career advice, exercise caution and critical thinking when evaluating the tips provided. Blindly following ill-advised trends may jeopardize your career and financial stability.