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On LinkedIn, Some Job Seekers Aren’t Shy About Being Desperate

On LinkedIn, Some Job Seekers Aren’t Shy About Being Desperate

Update: 2024-10-18
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This podcast delves into the phenomenon of job seekers using the #Desperate hashtag on LinkedIn, highlighting the desperation felt by many individuals struggling to find employment in a challenging job market. The podcast explores the factors contributing to this trend, including prolonged job searches, economic challenges like AI disruption and inflation, and the prevalence of "ghost jobs" - fake job listings that waste job seekers' time and effort. The podcast also discusses the uneven nature of the current job market, where despite positive job numbers, many individuals face difficulties finding suitable employment. The podcast examines the message behind the #Desperate hashtag, recognizing the desire of job seekers to connect with potential employers and emphasize their readiness to work. However, it also explores the potential drawbacks of using this hashtag, including the possibility of receiving less aggressive job offers and raising concerns about job security among potential employers. The podcast further highlights the emotional toll of prolonged job searches, with many individuals expressing frustration and disbelief at their situation. It draws a comparison between the job market and dating, highlighting the uncertainties and potential for rejection in both scenarios, including the possibility of being ghosted or receiving no explanation for rejection.

Outlines

00:00:00
Job Market Desperation on LinkedIn

This podcast explores the growing trend of job seekers using the #Desperate hashtag on LinkedIn, analyzing the factors driving this trend and its potential implications for both job seekers and employers.

00:00:13
Factors Contributing to Job Market Desperation

The podcast explores the factors driving people to use the #Desperate hashtag, including prolonged job searches, economic trends like AI disruption and inflation, and the prevalence of "ghost jobs" - fake job listings.

00:05:30
The Emotional Impact of Job Searching

The podcast highlights the emotional toll of prolonged job searches, with many individuals expressing frustration and disbelief at their situation. It draws a comparison between the job market and dating, highlighting the uncertainties and potential for rejection in both scenarios.

Keywords

#Desperate


A hashtag used on LinkedIn to signal a desperate need for a job, often employed by individuals facing prolonged job searches or challenging economic circumstances.

Ghost Jobs


Fake job listings posted on platforms like LinkedIn or job websites, leading to wasted time and effort for job seekers.

Uneven Job Market


A job market characterized by a disparity between positive job numbers and the actual experience of many job seekers, who face challenges finding suitable employment.

Open-to-Work


A feature on LinkedIn that allows users to signal their availability for new job opportunities, but can sometimes be perceived negatively by potential employers.

AI Disruption


The impact of artificial intelligence on various industries, potentially leading to job displacement and increased competition for employment.

Inflation


A sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services, impacting purchasing power and potentially contributing to job market challenges.

Q&A

  • What is the #Desperate hashtag on LinkedIn and why are people using it?

    The #Desperate hashtag is used by job seekers on LinkedIn to signal their urgent need for a job, often due to prolonged job searches, economic challenges, or frustration with the job market.

  • What are some of the factors contributing to the trend of job seekers using the #Desperate hashtag?

    Factors contributing to this trend include prolonged job searches, economic trends like AI disruption and inflation, the prevalence of "ghost jobs," and the uneven nature of the current job market.

  • What are the potential drawbacks of using the #Desperate hashtag on LinkedIn?

    Potential drawbacks include receiving less aggressive job offers from employers who perceive desperation as a sign of weakness and raising concerns about job security among potential employers.

  • How does the podcast compare the job market to dating?

    The podcast draws a comparison between the job market and dating, highlighting the uncertainties and potential for rejection in both scenarios, including the possibility of being ghosted or receiving no explanation for rejection.

Show Notes

Some job seekers are posting on LinkedIn that they are #Desperate to be hired. Wall Street Journal reporter Ann-Marie Alcántara joins host J.R. Whalen to discuss whether the tactic could help land an interview or a job.




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On LinkedIn, Some Job Seekers Aren’t Shy About Being Desperate

On LinkedIn, Some Job Seekers Aren’t Shy About Being Desperate

The Wall Street Journal